Submerged(Bound Together Book 1)(53)

 

Arriving at the Bellagio, I take in the ornate, towering building. It’s so easy for someone who has lived here their entire life to overlook some of the beautiful features that make Vegas what it is. From the sprawling buildings to the amazing architecture, bright lights and wall-to-wall people from all walks of life, Las Vegas truly is a magnificent city.

 

The valet opens my door, while Blake tips the man taking the car. He slides up alongside me, his scent wrapping around me like a pair of designer jeans. I place my hand through his proffered arm, and we walk together into the hotel. It doesn’t take us long to find the restaurant. After giving his name to the hostess, we’re quickly ushered toward a prime table location along the wall of windows. We can see the fountain in all its glory from here. It’s a truly stunning first date.

 

“Can I get you a drink?” the waiter asks as he places glasses of water on the table.

 

“I’ll have an apple martini, please,” I tell him, deciding to try the drink I don’t get very often.

 

“I’ll have whiskey, neat,” Blake tells the young man who hurries off to gather our drinks.

 

“Whiskey?” I ask, raising one eyebrow up towards my hairline.

 

“It seems like a whiskey kind of night. One drink, though. That’s all I’m having. I want to make sure we’re able to get home safely so I can fuck you senseless,” he says so openly and honestly. My eyes widen, but not from shock. From desire. The heat and promise in his statement lets me know that he plans exactly that tonight.

 

Not able to formulate words for a reply, I glance down at the menu the waiter left at my place setting. A few minutes later, he returns with our ordered drinks and sets out to share their specials for the evening. Blake and I each opt for the prime rib, baked potato, and green beans. We even order our steak the same – medium. It’s just one more thing I mentally note that Blake and I have in common. It’s just one more reason to finally let go and give my heart to someone. Lord knows I have more feelings for this man than I’ve ever had for anyone else before him.

 

One thing I’ve noticed about Blake is that he wants to know everything he can about Natalia. As we’re chatting about her, my cell phone rings in my clutch. Afraid that it’s my mother, I dig it out quickly and glance at the number.

 

“Who is it?” Blake asks, concerned as much as I am that something is wrong with Natalia.

 

“I’m not sure. It’s not a number in my contacts.”

 

“Answer it. It could be about Nat or your mom,” he says, his voice laced with concern.

 

“Hello?” I say into the cell phone.

 

“Hi, is this Carly?” the male voice on the other end of the line asks.

 

“Yes it is. Who is speaking?” I ask politely.

 

“This is Bill. From church,” he says and my heart stops beating. No way is this happening. I’m on a date with one man and another with whom I gave my number to is calling me. Awesome.

 

“Oh, Bill. Hi. Look, this isn’t a good time,” I start, not able to meet Blake’s eyes. I feel them boring into my skin, slicing me open with each hard gaze.

 

“I’m sorry. I can call back another time.”

 

“That would be great,” I start but instantly feel guilty. “You know what? Hold on a minute,” I tell Bill before looking up at Blake. Placing my hand over the phone, I say, “I need to step into the hall for a moment. Will you excuse me?” I ask, not quite sure how I’m able to breathe at this point. Panic. That’s what I’m about to do.

 

“Sure. Is everything alright?” he asks, those emerald eyes full of concern, which just makes me feel sicker.

 

Unable to answer, I give him a head nod. Once in the somewhat privacy of the hallway, I put the phone back up to my ear. “Sorry about that. I don’t want to be rude, Bill. You’re a very nice man, but I don’t think it would be wise to call me for that cup of coffee. I’ve started to see someone, and it wouldn’t be fair to you or to him if I were to meet you,” I tell him honestly.

 

“I see. Well, I can’t say that I’m not disappointed, but I appreciate your honesty. If it doesn’t work out with that guy, I’d still like to grab coffee sometime.”

 

“Thank you for understanding,” I tell him, feeling relieved on so many levels.

 

“Take care, Carly.”

 

“Thank you. You too, Bill,” I say just before signing off. I pull my phone down from my ear and close my eyes, taking several deep, calming breaths.