Page 133 - Reason To Sing by Kelita Haverland

Chapter Twenty-Three

at me with those baby blues, I am putty. I hang onto every word
he speaks. And he does speak to me. As I’ve grown older, you
could even call our communication a little flirtatious.
Dreamy has seen me transform from a kid to a young
woman. He has always jokingly told me that when I turn 18,
he’s going to take me out for my birthday. And now, with the
Christmas holidays upon us, my 18th birthday is only four
short weeks away. Dare I be hopeful? He really doesn’t mean
it, does he? Only kidding, of course. Why would a 28-year-old
man want to date an 18-year-old? But I can’t help fantasizing.
And then … it happens.
“Have you got any plans for your big birthday?” Dreamy is
looking straight into my eyes as we sit across from each other
at the kitchen table. Frankie is still in the shower and no one
else is around. I feel like I am the only female on this planet.
My face is on fire even though I try with all my might to
act nonchalant. “Ah, no I don’t actually.” I try to return his gaze
in a mature, matter-of-fact fashion.
His stare penetrates even deeper. “Well then, Kelita, why
don’t you let me take you out to dinner?”
The planet stops spinning as the kitchen begins to whirl.
I am in shock! Did I hear him correctly? Take ME out? On a
date? For real?
I can’t believe he is serious. But he doesn’t burst into
laughter or get up and walk away. He just sits there, quietly,
waiting for my response.
My response? I am flattered and intimidated and incredulous
and yes, even a bit embarrassed.
I sputter out the truth. “Yes, that would be really nice.
Thanks.”
Nice? Seriously, Kelita. Try UNBELIEVABLE. Or
FANTASTIC. Or MY WILDEST DREAM COME TRUE!

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