Page 9 of The Lighthouse on Plum Island
Brad listened attentively, his empathy evident in his eyes. “That sounds tough,” he said softly. “I can imagine how challenging that must be for both you and Jules.”
Caroline nodded, appreciating his understanding. “It’s been a journey, that’s for sure. But we’re working on it.”
Brad then opened up about his family, particularly his son, Connor, who was passionate about surfing. He spoke fondly of Connor’s dedication to the sport and how it had become a significant part of their lives. Brad proudly told her that he never had a problem with Connor. He was such a well-adjusted kid and a straight-A student.
“Well, there was that one time he got an A-minus for pottery.” Brad grinned.
“Pottery?” Caroline said in disbelief. “It’s not as easy as it looks, you know.”
“Oh, I know.” Brad nodded teasingly. “But it’s nice to have something to tease my bright, polite, happy, well-adjusted kid about.”
“My daughter was all that.” Caroline sighed and reluctantly pulled her hand away from Brad’s when their desserts and coffee arrived.
As they savored their confectionery and sipped their coffee, the conversation meandered to other subjects, such as places they had always dreamed of visiting.
“I’ve had this lifelong dream of exploring Paris and Italy,” Caroline confessed, her eyes gleaming with wanderlust.
Brad leaned in, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “I’ve been fortunate enough to visit both places,” he said. “Paris is a city of timeless beauty, and Italy’s art and history are breathtaking. If you ever decide to go, I could recommend some must-visit spots.” He idly stirred his coffee. “And if you go to Italy, make sure to visit the smaller towns. You won’t regret it. The people are friendly, warm, and inviting. And the food is out of this world.”
As the evening drew to a close, Caroline felt a sense of reluctance. Time had flown by, and she had enjoyed every moment spent with Brad.
As they walked out of the eatery, Brad turned to her and smiled. “Thank you for tonight. I had a great time.” His eyes reflected his reluctance for the evening to end. “I don’t know when I last had such a good time.”
Caroline’s eyes twinkled with agreement. “I also enjoyed our time together. It’s been a while since I’ve had such a wonderful time too.”
Under the enchanting city lights, they stood, caught in a moment where words seemed unnecessary, their connection palpable.
“Can I get a cab to take you home?” Brad’s courteous offer to arrange a cab hovered in the air.
With a gentle smile, Caroline declined his offer. “I only live a block away.”
Brad’s eyes brightened with pleasure, and he extended his arm toward her. “Then may I walk you home?”
Caroline’s heart skipped a beat at his gallant gesture. “I’d like that,” she replied, her smile mirroring her genuine delight.
A delightful shiver of anticipation coursed through her as she linked her arm with his. It was as if a dormant part of her had suddenly awakened, a symphony of emotions, and her heart felt like it was bursting into a spectacular fireworks display. Together, they began their short walk down the city streets, the world around them fading into insignificance as they reveled in the simple joy of each other’s company.
But too soon, they came upon Jennifer’s apartment building, and Caroline knew it was truly the end of the evening.
“This is me!” Caroline pointed to the building.
Their eyes met and held once again, each mirroring their reluctance to say goodnight.
Under the dimly lit street lamp, they shared their first kiss, a sweet and lingering connection that left them both breathless. When they finally pulled away, Brad looked into Caroline’s eyes.
“Would you have lunch with me tomorrow?” Brad’s words were a hoarse whisper as their foreheads touched.
Caroline’s heart danced with delight, and she smiled warmly. “I’d love to.”
Brad’s face lit up, and he leaned in for one more kiss, a promise of more to come. “I’ll pick you up at noon,” he whispered.
Caroline nodded, her anticipation growing. “I’ll be ready.”
With one last sweet kiss, Brad stepped back, leaving Caroline standing outside Jennifer’s building. They exchanged warm goodnights. Her heart filled with excitement for the day that awaited them.
As Brad walked away, he turned and smiled, waving back at Caroline before hailing a cab. Caroline watched him disappearinto the night, and she smiled as her emotions shivered in anticipation of their lunch date the next day.
She walked into the apartment building feeling like a giddy school girl who’d just had her first kiss, and it was from the high school heartthrob. Caroline sighed as she walked into the empty apartment and went to prepare for bed, not that she thought she’d get much sleep. She was getting a bottle of water from the refrigerator when Jennifer arrived home.
