between them.
The b ell rang again and she called “Coming” as she hurried down the hall. She took another deep breath before she pulled open the door and had her breath stolen from her. He came armed with flowers and a smile. Instead of the jeans and t-shirt she’d seen him in previously, he wore black dress pants with a blue shirt and tie which matched his eyes. His hair looked different and she realized he must have had it cut, but was relieved to see it still crept down his face, just like that first moment she saw him. The urge to brush it back from his brow was just as strong.
* * *
When Isabelle opened the door, Mitch couldn’t breathe. Her green dress wrapped around her sensational figure to the knee where it swirled outwards. The V neckline and bare arms showed off her olive skin. Her eyes shone greener this evening thanks to the dress and her hair was piled up on her head, cascading down a little at the back. He stood, his mouth agape, unable to speak again. Where was the charismatic Mitch hiding?
His ability to talk returned after several moments of him staring at her staring at him. “These are for you,” he said , passing her the flowers. “You look beautiful.”
“Thanks, you don’t look too bad yourself. I’m not overdressed , am I?”
He shook his head.
“OK, I’ll put these in water, then we can go.”
Mitch watched her retreat into what he guessed to be the kitchen before glancing around the apartment to discover it appeared quite small. This surprised him as he thought she would be able to afford a better place on her income. When she returned, she guided him out the door, locked it , then linked her arm through his.
“Shall we go?”
“Um, yes.” Her arm resting on his sent ripples of heat over his skin. “It isn’t far. We can walk from here, if you want.”
“Sounds good. It’s a nice night.”
* * *
They strolled through the streets and chatted about their favorite things around the city while watching the sun setting over the horizon. The walk was short and in no time they arrived at the restaurant. Isabelle discovered it was one she wanted to try for some time but was way out of her budget.
“I’ve heard about this place but never got around to it,” she said , not wanting to let on too much about her lack of finances.
“I love it here. The food and atmosphere are great.”
“You must come here a lot, then.” Was that a twinge of envy in her voice at the thought of other women here with him? This was new.
“I usually come here with my family. I haven’t brought a date here before.”
How did he know that was what she wanted to hear? “Oh,” was all she could think of to say.
It appeared he’d booked a table and was well known by the host who led them to a small private table near the back where lighting was low and it was quiet.
“Well, I’m impressed.” She smiled.
“It’s nothing.” He shrugged. “I wanted it to be quiet so we could talk. You fascinate me.”
His cheeks reddened and this simply endeared him further. There was much more to this man then the rumors pegged him. Maybe there was a reason he used to bed hop. Suddenly she was very glad she had taken the chance to find out. Before she knew what was happening, he pulled out her chair and gestured for her to sit. Once she did, he pushed it in and joined her.
“I’m really not all that interesting. I hope I don’t disappoint.”
“You couldn’t.” The smile he offered was shy and boyish. “Tell me about your family, your life. I want to know all about you.”
His intense gaze and words overwhelmed her. “W ow, I hardly know you, Mitch. I … don’t know whether I want to -”
“I know you don’t know if you can trust me or if I’m trying to seduce you. As much as I would love to.” He stopped and the charming grin returned. “I do want to get to know you. I will regret everything I’ve done if that stops it from happening.”
The look she saw in his