I nodded. “I am. I can’t deny there are a few things on my mind.”
“Care to share?”
“Well, the server’s name is Jordan. That’s my son’s name. I miss him.”
“Where is he?”
“He’s… with his father.” Silence. I felt a rash of embarrassment spread over me. I knew he would think I’m a bad mother for being out on a date with him instead of at home with my child. But instead of judging me, he asked more about Jordan, his likes, dislikes, temperament, and interests. I breathed a sigh of relief and shared as much as I could without going too deep or detailed.
“I hope that wasn’t too much.” I nervously fiddled my drink on the table. “I just love my son. Sometimes I can just get carried away with over-sharing.”
“There’s no such thing as over-sharing when it’s important to you.” His brown eyes were warm as he looked into mine. “Not every boy is lucky to have a wonderful, caring mother like you.”
Our conversation continued, lighthearted and effortless, as we snacked on spiced caramel popcorn with bacon and waited for our food. Once the meals came, I was surprised. Desmond had ordered Japanese chicken wings and lamb chops.
“These are my favorite dishes here,” he beamed. “We’ll have a little of both. I hope you like them.”
He extended his hand for mine and said grace. I lit up inside. Hollis stopped saying grace a long time ago. It was good to know some men were still into their manners, even on dates.
Conversation came to a break as we ate. Desperate to maintain my charm, I nibbled as much as possible. I didn’t want to mess up my makeup, or appear to lack composition with my eating habits. It was hard, because wings and lamb chops were absolutely delish.
“Are you enjoying your meal?” Desmond asked, looking at me.
“Yes, it’s delicious.” I took an insanely small piece of lamb chop and held it to my lips. “This lamb is absolutely fabulous.”
“Eat up, then, sweetheart,” he said. “You’re nibbling and nibbling. I’m a Texas man. I love a woman who eats and isn’t afraid to do so.” He looked at me with his eyebrow cocked. “I know you can eat. As much as you tell me you love to cook, and those gorgeous curves you have, I know you enjoy a delicious meal. Don’t be shy. Be yourself.”
“I’m trying,” I said. “It’s just … a little hard.”
“Why?”
“Well, first, I’m trying to lose a little weight. I’ve put on weight since becoming a mother.”
“How much?”
I shrugged. “30 pounds, I guess. I’m not really sure. I gained two dress sizes and wear an eight instead of a four.” I hoped that would be enough. If he could shift the conversation from making me eat to weight loss, I’d be in a more comfortable arena.
“Okay, and what’s the other reason?” He gave me eye contact, and pressed when I didn’t answer.
“Well, I’m nervous.”
He reached for my hand and caressed it. “There’s no reason to be nervous. I’ve been excited about this date from the moment you said yes.”
My heart quickened. “Really?”
“Yes. I don’t have to remind you that you’re stunning. But when I started to really get to know you, I realized we have so much in common. You have a lot of what I’m looking for?”
I gulped. “What?”
He smiled and shook his head. “You’re so cute.”
“Answer my question!” I pursued. I wanted to know what he had to say.
“I’ve been single because I couldn’t find a woman whose radiance magnetized me.” The pad of his thumb sent a series of familiar tingles as he caressed the wedge between my thumb and index finger.
“I’m constantly approached and lusted after by different women who want something from me, without anything of interest to bring to the table. Those women lose my interest because of their vapid personalities. I’m looking for a woman whose mind is focused on the simpler things in life: food, friends, home, God, and of course, family.
“We’re in the beginning stages of knowing each other, and I’ve come to see you’re quite possibly that woman I’m looking for. You’re intelligent, loving, kind, gentle-hearted, nurturing – and of course, quite beautiful. Your radiance is extraordinary.”
He lifted my hand to his lips once more, sending an uncontrollable moan through me. I melted under his touch and over his words. My panties were starting to get wet from his intense energy. I felt a wave of desire spring forth that was almost uncontrollable.