Page 41 of Friends Rucked Up

“Yes. I’ve got it.” I take the red wine, a serving napkin, and a silver corkscrew. Once I reach the table, Saylor is looking at me with intrigue. “Can I get you a drink madam?” I say, in my poshest voice.

She tilts her wine glass toward me. “Sure. Fill me up.”

I uncork the bottle with a pop and then pour us both a drink. It’s expensive wine from a nice vineyard in Italy. I’m not an expert, but Antony Clive recommended it to complement the meal, and I trust his judgement.

A few minutes later, Antony enters with the starters, and I take my seat.

“To begin, we have Swedish melon with a beautiful raspberry coulis.” He puts the dishes in front of each of us.

When he leaves Saylor points towards the door he went through. “Was that Antony Clive?”

“Yes. I wanted this evening to be perfect.”

Her eyes widen as she covers her mouth. “This is unbelievable.”

She sometimes listens to his Saturday morning podcast. He’s a fan of the Selby Scarabs and with the promise of a couple of signed shirts, he freed up his evening for us.

We tuck into the food which is just as delicious as it looks. Next, Antony serves lamb with a mint sauce for the main meal. Saylor has another glass of wine, and the conversation flows easily.

“I feel like a princess,” Saylor says.

“We’re eating like kings. Maybe I should date more often.” I’m teasing her. She knows I only have eyes for her.

“I’d be up for a second date.” She ignores my terrible attempt at trying to make her jealous.

“I must’ve impressed if you’re already thinking about a repeat.”

This feels like the start of more than a few dates. I’ve waited so long for a chance with Saylor—I want everything to be perfect.

“We will see.” Her eyes sparkle with mischief, and I don’t miss the innuendo.

We’ve spent most of the week making out like we’re back in high school. We’ve discussed tonight being the night.

“Let’s get through dessert first.” I wink at her, and she gives me a wicked smile.

Antony clears the plates and brings us lemon sorbet ice cream with wild berries. Taking a scoop from the dish, I feed Saylor ice cream across the table.

“Mmm, so good. You did so good,” she says.

“I can’t take credit, all I did was hire the chef. Compliments to Antony Clive.” I shout the last bit and we both clap.

He pokes his head in for a second. “Thank you,” Antony says before ducking back out.

“You organised this whole evening, so I’m impressed with you, too.” She leans in, and I give her a quick kiss across the table.

We finish up the dessert and move into the living room where there’s a log fire and a loveseat. The whole room looks like something out of a Hallmark movie.

“I’m ready to give you your reward now,” Saylor says, curling her hand around my collar so she can bring me in for a kiss.

“I like your way of thinking.” I kiss her again.

Her hands slide down to my buttons, and she undoes my shirt. She’s seen my chest naked before only this time it feels different. Her lustful eyes drink me in. I’ll never get enough of her looking at me like that.

There’s a loud cough breaking the moment between us. “I’m sorry to interrupt,” Antony says, poking his head around the door. I’d almost forgotten he was still here.

“Just leave the rest of the dishes. I’ll tidy up tomorrow,” I say, hastily. I’d like to be alone with my girl.

“I wouldn’t disturb you if it wasn’t important. Saylor, your brother has been taken to hospital.”

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