The phone rang about an hour later and I got up to answer it. When I got to the kitchen, my mother was just standing there staring at it. "Are you going to get that?" I asked.
"No," she said, "They'll tire themselves out eventually, if we stop answering."
"It could be someone else." I pointed out.
"It's not," she said, "Your sister is at work right now. Even then, I told her to let it ring twice, then hang up so I know it's her."
"Great, well it could be for me,"
She let out a snort, "And who would call you?"
"Oh I don't know, work," I said grabbing the phone.
"No," she hissed, but I answered.
"Hello?"
"Is this Mindy Evert?"
"Yes," I said.
"Who is it?" My mother hissed.
"Work," I hissed back, giving her a look.
She seemed even more upset, like how dare I be right about something.
"This is Alice from Darrow's Park. We need you to come in and have a sit down with the writers, concerning your character."
"Oh," I said. I wasn't sure if I was in trouble. Then I got mad at myself. Why did I always jump to the worst! Maybe this was a good thing.
"What did you do now?" My mother asked, and I realized it ran in the family. She jumped to the worst too.
Alice must have heard her and quickly said, "No, everything is fine, they just want to develop your character and storyline more. It's a good thing."
"Oh really, "I said. "When did you need me to come in?"
"Whenever you can manage, today if possible, the sooner the better."
"Okay," I checked the time, it was about noon, "I'll be there in an hour or so." That should give me enough time to eat, change, pack a bag and catch the bus.
"Alright, I'll let them know. When you come in just go to the writer's building. Do you know where that is?"
"Yes, I've been there before"
"Okay, well have a wonder filled day!"
"Thank you." I said and she hung up.
"Did you get fired again?" My mother asked as she crossed her arms.
"No, I'm actually getting more work!"
"Really," she sounded skeptical.
I didn't have time for this! I rushed off and got everything ready. On my way out, I grabbed a banana and some yogurt for now, and an apple for later. When I got to the front door, my mother was there with her arms still crossed. "What is it? I've got to get going?"
"Did you want a ride or not?"
"I'd love one," I said.
"Well I am going to pop by and see your sister. I can drop you off,"
"Wonderful," I said.
I didn't really want to ride the bus, right now. Given he might still be out there...but that was insane right? Like why would he be out there an hour later? Still I looked for him when we got to the parking lot. I didn't see him or anything out of the ordinary. I realized I might want to pay attention to what cars were parked. What if he was in one of them right now...watching me.
I didn't want to think about it. I was glad work had called, I could really use the distraction. I know I needed to think and decide on what to do, but not right now. Not right now! I felt...overwhelmed. That was the story of my life these days. I used to feel like I could do anything, but now I just got overwhelmed. We got in the car once more, and she drove me to work as I ate. At first I thought she was being nice. Until she parked in the parking lot.
"You don't have to park. You can just drop me off at the entrance." I pointed out.
"I want to watch you go in." she said. "To your "job"
I realized she was skeptical. Like I was lying about having a job. I pursed my lip, then pulled out my security badge, "Let me just get my security badge," I said, then showed it to her. She glanced at it, but didn't budge. "Have a nice day," I said, "Thanks for the ride."
I got out of the car and walked to the entrance. I showed my badge and they let me walk right through. I hoped that as sufficient enough for her. I went straight to the writers building. When I walked into the lobby a receptionist greeted me and asked if she could help me. Last time I was with a writer and was able to go right up.
This time I had to check in. She let them know I was there and I took a seat on a nearby couch. I worried my thoughts might consume me. Stalker. Stalker. I have a stalker! I looked over some of the magazines and saw the Darrow's Park news letter. I pushed the thoughts from my head as I wondered if I should subscribe, to keep up with the latest information. I flipped through it and Sandie showed up a minute or two later.
She looked excited to see me, "I'm so glad you could make it!" she said, rushing up to me.
I set the newsletter down and got up, "Yeah, I just got the call and headed over. I heard you wanted to do some stuff with my character?"
"Yes, I don't know if I've told you, but I mostly do scut work, lore checks, vendor lines and small parts here or there, like visitors to the Ruby Kingdom."
"The Azure Queen," I said
"Yes," Sandie said, nodding. We walked into the elevator and she pushed the button. The doors closed and she continued."But I'm hoping we can make this more of a permanent thing for both of us. Since your character was so popular and got requested twice this weekend, my boss has given me the go ahead to expand your character. So you're going to be my first official character!"
"Oh wow, well this is my first time acting, so it's a first for the both of us,"
"What!" she said as the elevators doors opened. She looked confused then concerned. "They said you were from the theater or something?"
"Oh well," Shit! I thought we were having a moment, but quickly realized I misjudged, "You know background. I was mostly in the background, a few lines here or there so this is my first time getting a larger role."
"Ahh," She said as we stepped out of the elevator. We started walking as she continued. "Well you're wonderful Your reactions seem so genuine." Probably because most of them were. I'd been out of my element on everything. Reacting to things as they happened. Part of me had no idea how I'd gotten here from trying on a dress.
"Are you busy today? Like do you have anywhere else you need to be?" she asked.
"No, no plans. I'm all yours."
"Well you're busy now," she said. "Let me go over what we'll be doing. First I've signed you up for a public relations class. It will help if you ever get chosen for another fan service. They'll show you how to engage with the fans on a professional level. Honestly, there are a lot of people around here that could use it. Anyway that will be Wednesday between shows, it will only take a few hours. You're going to be on all week now, today will be planning, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday will be old content and Thursday the park is closed. Saturday and Sunday, you have the repeat of the weekend event. We have a whole entrance planned whether you're chosen for fan service or not."
It sounded like a busy week, my mom would probably be happy about that. I might actually have a decent first paycheck. "Okay, uh, what is old content and who is we?"
"Oh, old content is what you did last week, you know it's old now. So a repeat of last week with some minor adjustments. You'll do three shows a day for three days. By we, I mean Frances and me. He writes the Dark Knight and is pretty much in charge of all the villains. I don't remember the last time anything interesting happened, save for last week, but I think that's because the temp went rogue."
"What! He went rogue." I said surprised. I knew we went way off script, but I wasn't sure it that was the plan or not. Like originally, I thought he was testing me, then I didn't understand why he was following me. Craig had said he was a temp and would have a talk with him, but everything had just exploded into this whole thing. I kind of wondered if it was an accident, because he was a temp, but I now realized he'd done this all on his own.
"Yeah, the Dark Knight is just suppose to be a menace, who randomly rides around. He doesn't follow any one in particular and he definitely doesn't talk to anyone. He might shout a veiled threat to the kingdom, but him talking and like that, was totally out of left field! To be fair he's a temp so what did he have to lose. He took a chance and this might actually get him the job. We've seen a huge uptake in interested. There was some curiosity before, but now its boarding on like obsession. Miles wants to weave him into the latest storyline more. He's our head writer. We had a meeting this morning and there are a lot of ideas floating around, but they want to see him out of his armor first. He's suppose to come in today, but hasn't shown up yet. I hear they got in touch with him, but he was waiting on something. I'm just so glad you came in, we tried you first thing this morning, but your phone was busy.
"Oh, I've been having some phone issues lately." I said. The phone had probably been off the hook before mom called the phone company, and then we went grocery shopping.
"You should get a beeper. I have a feeling you and the Dark Knight are going to be so busy. Let's cross our fingers that he's hot! Have you seen him without his armor on?"
"No," I said, "I thought no one was suppose to know his identity."
"You know I don't know," she said, "But that kind of works, makes him all dark and mysterious, instead of just like, you know Mitch or something."
"Yeah," I said.
"Do you know if he's single?"
"I don't know,"
"It's the top question we've been getting."
"Oh," I said.
I didn't know how I felt about that. I was really into him and hoped he was into me, but I realized I might not stand a chance. He said I was important to him, but that was because we worked together right? I didn't want to get my hopes up. I really, really didn't want to get my hopes up and kept smiling. I hated that I was already so invested...when this might not even go anywhere. It had just been so long, that and attached myself too easily.
"Anyway, after we go over old content, I'm hoping to get into some new stuff. My boss wants a timeline by the end of today, for what you'll be doing the next month or so and if we play our cards right longer." I hoped, but didn't say anything. "Yes indeed, we are going to be busy today,"
"Umm sorry, I don't mean to be rude, but I was just curious, am I getting paid for this. Like today?"
"You didn't clock in before you came here?" she asked.
"No," I said, "They told me to go straight to the writer's building."
"Well, that's with the assumption you clocked in. Girl if you're here, you're on the clock, unless you're salary and then you're always on. You'd better go clock in, then come back. We could get in a lot of trouble otherwise,"
"Sorry,"
"No, it's okay. Now go so you can get back." I turned to leave, but she called out to me, "Oh! Wait!"
"Yeah." I said, turning back.
"This desk over here is mine," she said, putting her hand on one of the dozen or so desks in the room. "But we'll be working in here today," She walked over to an open doorway. I went to it, and saw a small room with a table and chairs. There were posters of the Dark Knight and me hung up all over. "You think you can find your way back?"
"Yeah, but will they let me back up, or do I sign in again?"
"I'll let Cindy know you're coming back. You can just get into the elevator and come right up."
"Okay," I said, then made my way to the time clock.
The back area was completely dead. Again, it was so wild given how busy this weekend was. I put my stuff in my locker then clocked in. When I stepped out of the locker room, I saw Jules staring at the schedules as he rubbed his eyes.
"Hey, I'm surprised to see you out of the dungeon!" I teased.
He turned and smiled, "Mindy, what's up. I thought you didn't have any shifts until after Monday."
"I didn't, got a call this morning, the writers want to expand my character!"
"Oh that's good!"
"Yeah," I stood there for a moment then asked."How's Barry, any word?"
"Well he's not dead," said Jules, "Place was completely bare, dead people don't tend to empty their apartments."
"Oh," I said, "So he's really gone."
"Looks like it," said Jules, yawning. "I'd better get back to the grind. Considering I am now the entire costume department."
"Ah, well maybe they'll hire someone else."
"I doubt it, even then I don't really want to break someone new in. I have a system."
"Hmm, well I hope things get better,"
"I'm sure they will," he said, rubbing his eyes again.
I started to walk away, then turned back and said, "Oh, I hear the Dark Knight is coming in without his armor on."
"Oh," said Jules, a sly smile spread across his lips."Is he now?"
I felt like he already knew. "Yeah, I heard they want to weave him into the storyline more and I guess they need to see him without his armor on."
"Oh?" said Jules. He now looked confused, "Who wants to see him?"
"The writers."
"The writers want to see him…even thought he's a temp?"
I shrugged.
"Well,"said Jules, I saw a flash of anger crossed his face,"Thank you for letting me know!"
He turned and stormed off, without another word. I felt like something was going on, but I needed to get back. I returned to the writer's building and sat down with Sandie. She had papers all over the place and was still organizing them. I sat for fifteen minutes, while she wrapped things up. Then we went over the day to day script. She made some small phrase changes and changed the courtyard to my official starting point. It probably took us an hour, then we got into the kiss.
I'd honestly almost forgotten about it, with everything that had gone on this weekend. She told me kissing wasn't something Darrow's Park took lightly. Each party involved had to sign a consent waiver, and it was usually only for special events. Then she asked if we'd planned it. When I told her he'd surprised me. She had like a thousand questions. I could tell she was trying to gauge how I felt about it. Eventually, she just asked if I'd be okay with signing a wavier and doing it again...even the slapping him after.
I needed a minute to think about it. She said we wouldn't be kissing every show just the last five shows of the night. They were also going to push the show from seven to eight, to eight to nine, more adult hours. She got up to get something and I had a few minutes to myself. I read the wavier twice and really thought about it. Did I want to kiss him every day, five times a day? My cheeks flushed. Honestly I liked him a lot!
This weekend had reinforced that more then ever, but I still didn't really know how he felt about me. He'd said things, but once again, it could work for a co-workers or even friends...at least for me. Honestly...pathetically, these days I needed it literally slept out for me. Do you like me? Yes or No. I sunk my head down on the table. Part of me felt like he'd already given an answer, but I just didn't want to accept reality.
I ran my hands over my face and stared at the wavier some more. I was already confused. I didn't think kissing him five times a day was gonna help clear things up. I'd also have to slap him everyday, and pretty hard to make it believable. Sandie returned and handed me a bottle of water. I could tell she was hoping I'd made a decision. Ultimately, I told her I'd be up for it, but only if he was, given I had to slap him five times a night. She quickly got on the phone with Frances and said I was up for it, if the Dark Knight was. She said Frances would let her know and she'd let me know.
Then we went over everything from the weekend for an hour. They wanted me to do the shows like normal, then wander around the city like I was lost. They planned to have wolves, or trolls, or maybe bandits attack me and the Dark Knight save me. Together we'd ride to fan service. They were hoping it would draw more people in, but I thought it was already packed. She told me they wanted to start it earlier and let it run later. I told her I rode the bus and it only went to eleven.
She said it would be fine and we went for a walk. She showed me an area by the schedules that listed carpools. It had times of departure to and from Darrow's Park, along with how many spots each car had. All I had to do was add my name to any driver's car that had volunteered. She said there was a little sign out front, in the parking lot, where all the people who carpooled met. It would have been nice if Craig of George had mentioned it.
On our way back to the writer's building we swung by the managers offices and she got me a free bus pass. She added my name to a list and told me where I could pick it up at the first of every month. Apparently the bus company had a special plan with Darrow's Park. It's why they had a bus stop right outside. People who bought Darrow's annual pass got a discount on the bus and all employees got free passes.
Again I wondered why no one had told me, but I suppose I hadn't mentioned I rode the bus to Craig, and George might have assumed I already knew. Either way I was overjoyed! She had no idea how much this mean to me and was going to save me. This day was great, like seriously, I found forty bucks, was getting more hours and now had a free bus pass.
As we walked back to the writer's building, Sandie mentioned the rumors. I wondered if she knew about what happened this weekend. Apparently, much didn't get past the writers. They'd heard various versions, but thankfully, most importantly that security had cleared me. She wanted to know what happened from me and I told her the truth. That Leslie and her friends had been upset with me for "disrupting the order of things." It was probably why they had accused me of slashing her tires. We stopped walking halfway back and Sandie looked like she could have murdered them.
We started walking again and she got passionate. She told me the whole reason so many writers were hired and put in charge was to shake thing up! The new owners thought the park was dying. They wanted to completely overhaul it and bring it back to life. In her opinion, anyone who didn't want to improve Darrow's Park could get lost.
Then she admitted she didn't like Leslie, apparently she thought she was a superstar before she'd even been made a queen. She expected to be front and center at all times, like she was in the fucking Royal Ruby Family! Sandie apologized for getting so heated. She was just sick of it. This morning, George had dropped by and asked Frances to write the Sapphire Queen into a scene or two with the Dark Knight. I pursed my lips, recalling the conversation I'd overhead. He'd really gone and done it. He must have really liked her. Sandie looked at me and could tell something was up.
She asked if I knew why George was so keen on requesting scenes for Leslie. I told her I didn't know anything, but she didn't buy it. She pleaded with me to tell her something, and I just told her I didn't want anyone to get in trouble. That made her light up. She felt there was something more there and was going to dig her teeth in. She swore it wouldn't take her and the other writers long to find out.
She could have been a detective writer in another life. I told her I would love to play a detective. We went off for about an hour on possible kingdom mysteries. and how the guests could even get involved. I had a lot of fun talking to her. She was open to listening to me and seemed up for anything.
We got back to the room and she asked me what I'd thought of fan service. I admitted I'd never been to one before and it was overwhelming. I was so glad Drea had answered all the questions. I was honestly surprised so many guests wanted my autograph and to take a picture with me. I knew technically it was my character, but it was still wild. Sandie nodded, and said it would get easier over time and the class she'd signed me up for would help.
We got into future planning. After the throne room announcement event was over, there was going to be a big outdoor joust, to ring in spring. I could tell some exciting things were going to happen, because she kept having to catch herself from revealing it. She showed me where I'd be sitting and told me I'd just be a spectator. They'd call my name at some point, and I'd stand and wave then sit down. I thought it sounded like one the easiest jobs I'd ever had, but she told me it could get very boring.
Leading up to the joust, I was to be in the library book store. I'd be in the special section, looking at ancient scrolls and texts. My kingdom was one of the farthest away, and while I was glad to forge a union with the Ruby Kingdom, I'd really come for the books. I found that funny. I admitted I was hoping to get hired on so I could buy books from the library store. She thought that was cool and would have to recommended some books to me. She told me they might add in the Dark Knight watching me from the Shadows. They hadn't quiet decided on what our connection was. They might have him steal ancient texts and monologue his plans to disrupt the joust. So he was going to be there! When I asked if he had a big part in the joust, she got a knowing smile on her face and shook her head, trying not to tell me anything.
After everything with the joust was over, I would alternate depending on the weather. I'd study in the library store on rainy days and be about in the city on sunny days. Since my people were suppose to be powerful magic users, she was thinking I could help reinforce the "magical barrier." Mostly I'd walk about gesturing to invisible walls. I'd have a book and something else. She hadn't decided if she wanted to give me a wand or a staff.
I randomly asked what a scepter was. She told me it was a wand, but another writer walked passed the room, and said it was closer to a staff. It started a whole argument amongst the writers. They called a vote because of it and I found this happened all the time. A topic would come up and they'd spent hours discussing it, both sides showing proof. Ultimately it was tied, then a few people suggested a scepter might be its own thing, which added a third option to the vote. They started the vote all over again and it wouldn't be decided anytime soon.
We went back to what we were doing and Sandie took me to her desk. We got on her computer and she typed up the timeline we'd discussed. Then she made up my schedule for the next month or so. She printed me off a copy, but it still needed approval. I looked outside and saw it was starting to get dark. I wondered when the Dark Knight was suppose to show up.
Sandie's boss, Miles, stopped by her desk and asked how her timeline was going. She handed it to him and he glanced at it before he added it to a stack of papers he was carrying. I asked her about the Dark Knight and she lit up, remembering he was suppose to be in. She quickly asked Miles and apparently the Dark Knight had already come and gone.
Sandie asked why no one had told her and Miles said they wanted to keep his look a secret. Only he and Frances got to see him. Miles said he liked his look and knew the fans would too. They were going to have a meeting in an hour or so to discuss things. Frances had been brainstorming all day. Sandie pointed out she had been too and Miles just nodded.
I could tell Sandie sought his approval. After he left she let out a huge sigh. She looked at the time and supposed she'd better have dinner before the meeting. She had a feeling it was going to be a late night. She began cleaning up, but had one last question for me. It was ambitious, but if my character remained popular, she wanted to know if I had any ideas for a first name.
I knew it was a special thing to get a first name. I pondered it for a moment, surprised she'd let me choose. I thought about my dream last night and told her, Amelia. She looked up from the table and said it a few times before she wrote it down. She didn't think they had any Amelia's, but would look into it. She thanked me again for coming in and would let me know when my timeline was approved.
I went to the locker room and clocked out. I got my stuff and thought I'd better check on Jules. I went down to the costume department, but the hallway was dark and I didn't hear any music. I poked my head in anyway and the lights were off, it was a bit eerie. I assumed he'd gone home or something and hoped he was okay.
I went back upstairs and made my way outside. As I walked through the parking lot, I noticed more lights. I wondered if they'd done some work, given what had happened to Leslie's tires. They must have installed some of them today. I could see fresh cement and thought they worked fast.
Someone got out of their car as I was halfway through the parking lot. I found myself on edge. For a second I'd forgotten I had a stalker...to be fair, I'd been purposely putting it off.
"Well, what do you think?" I heard someone call out. I assumed they were talking to someone else and kept going, but a second later they called out, "MINDY!"
I paused under one of the lights and turned. You'd think I'd be able to see more, but the light was so bright, everything beyond it was darker and hard to make out. I swallowed my throat dry. I worried it was him...the blond guy! What did I do? I didn't have anything on me. Not that it mattered, my body had gone into shock. Some people fought or ran, when they were really scared, I just froze. So much for my so called survival instincts. I'd so be dead if we lived in the olden days.
My breath caught as I saw a figure approaching. They stepped into the light and had...dark hair! I let out a sigh of relief and my body relaxed. I looked at him and there was something about him. It was weird. He seemed unfamiliar, yet familiar at the same time. He was tall and had an almost angelic face with the way the shadows cast upon him. He had black hair tied behind him in a ponytail. He was wearing skin tight leather pants and a loose dark shirt that made him look like a pirate. He also had several rings on his fingers and they glistened in the light as he waved to me.
He drew closer and I took in his long boots that went to his knees. Again such pirate vibes! I looked down at them, then back up and met his gaze. I swear my heart nearly exploded. I'd know those ice blue eyes anywhere! I had been fixated on them for almost two weeks now.
I excitedly gasped, 'Wren!"
He got a big smile on his face, then looked puzzled. "How did you know it was me, and my name?"
"Your eyes!" I said."I'd know them anywhere!" Then I realized that sounded totally creepy or weird or both! "Sorry!" I said, running a hand through my hair. "I mean your eyes are so unique, so yeah, uh, I'm just gonna shut up. Oh wait as for your name, I saw it on one of Jules's boards!"
"Ah," he said, then let out a chuckle.
I must have looked like such a dork right now. I'd just thrown something on and come in without thinking. I needed to take more care with my appearance and start wearing perfume.
When he stopped laughing, he did a little spin with his arms outstretched and asked, "Well, what do you think?"
"The outfit?" I asked.
"The outfit, me, the whole packet."
"Oh you're- It's nice, both- everything are- is nice." I said. For some reason I suddenly couldn't string more then two words together. I took a deep breath and looked him over again. "Oh but wait!" I leaned in closer. "You aren't suppose to take anything home, from the park."
He chuckled again, "This is mine. I put it together myself."
"Oh, really, very cool!" I said, "I heard you came in. They wanted to see what you looked like."
"Yeah,"
"I heard Miles liked it."
"He did," he nodded.
"Does this mean you got the job or will you still be a temp?"
"I got the job," he said. "Jason is gonna need another surgery. He'll be out for a while, if he comes back at all,"
"Oh. Wait!" I said finally putting two and two together, "Jason! Jule's Jason?"
"Yeah," he said.
"Oh, Jules was upset today." I said. He must have been upset about Jason or something. I tried to think, but it was kind of hard with Wren staring at me, so uh...intently.
"About your question." he said, pulling me from my thoughts. "The yes or no one."
"Yeah?" I said.
He drew in closer, there wasn't even a step between us now. "Did you want to ask it?"
"Oh," I said blushing, "Forget it, I uh- I think I have the answer." There was no way I could ask now! He was way beyond me, tall, mysterious, smart, and handsome. The guests were absolutely gonna love hi- He suddenly grasped hold of my chin and I realized I was looking down at my feet. I tended to do that when I didn't want to face things.
"Ask!" he commanded as I met his eyes. There was something in his tone and the way that he looked at me that took me by surprise.
I felt almost...compelled to respond, "Do you like me?"
We stared at each other for a second. Then he reached out, wrapping a hand around my waist and the other around my head. He drew me into a kiss. It was not like before. It was still a surprise, but it wasn't a quick kiss. No, this one went on much longer, it was hot, heavy and all consuming. I felt his tongue enter my mouth as he pulled our bodies together in a tight embrace. I had enough time to recognize his mouth was colder then mine. He really did run cold. Yet the kiss still felt fiery! I'd never experienced an icy heat. I closed my eyes and lost myself in it. No one had ever kissed me so long or like this. It felt so powerful and possessive. I never knew a kiss could have such emotions. It literally took my breath away.
I was left gasping for air when he pulled back and I swayed a bit, feeling unsteady. He titled his head, studying me, and smiled. "Does that answer your question, my love,"
"Yes,"
"Is the answer," he smiled big, "Sorry, it took me so long to properly respond."
"You- Yeah that's right, you were going to be busy this week, I thought."
"I couldn't wait any longer," he said. Then kissed me again, dipping me this time.
When he put us back upright, I felt lightheaded, "Oh wow, you're a good kisser!" He smiled, then wiped his thumb across my bottom lip, "You hungry?"
"Food," I said, feeling like an idiot, but my head was full of- You know those cartoons with the birds that fly around people's heads. I got that now. I felt like birds were filling up my head. Maybe even my chest; my heart was sure fluttering.
"Yes, have you eaten?"
"Not since this morning. I have an apple in my bag, but I forgot about it,"
"Good, then you'll be hungry," He said, flashing me a charming smile," Come let us eat!"
He grasped hold of my hand and pulled me to his car. He opened the front passenger side door, then took my bag and he helped me in. He put my bag in the backseat, then got in the driver's seat, all while I was in a feverish daze. His car was nice, leather seats and already heated. He leaned into the backseat, and I thought he might be adjusting my bag or something, but he pulled out a dozen blue roses and handed them to me
"These or for you."
I looked at them astounded. The tips were dipped in gold, "Are you a secret florist or something?"
"Or Something," he smiled, then leaned over and kissed me again. "But I wanted this to be perfect."
"Perfect?"
"Our first date."
"We're on a date?" I said bewildered. I regretted my choice of attire even more. If I knew I was going on a date tonight, I would have wanted to look my best. I definitely would have shaved!
"Yes." he said, starting up the car, "We are now,"
He leaned over me and I thought he was going to kiss me again, but he put my seat belt on, I realized I'd forgotten. He gave me wink, then pulled out of the parking spot with only one hand on the wheel. He reached out his other hand, touching my arm and then holding my hand. My heart fluttered and my mind was gone...just fucking gone.. Not only did he like me, but he was taking me out on a date! It was official, today was the best day of my life!
"Could we maybe stop somewhere and get a lottery ticket?" I asked.
"You play that," he scoffed, "You know it's a scam right?"
"I- Sorry," I said. "It's more of an expression. I just feel like today is one of the best days."
"Ah, well its not over yet1" he said, giving my hand a squeeze. "Trust me there is much more to come!"
Things got quiet for a few minutes. I kept looking at him and the roses, thinking I was in some sort of fever dream. He turned off the road and we got into a small line of cars. I looked around and realized this place had valet parking. It must have been expensive! I'd never been anywhere they parked your car before. I dropped my jaw as we drew closer to getting out. There was no way I could go half on something like this!
"Uh- I- Sorry, I only have forty dollars until we get paid."
"So," He said, looking confused.
"This place, uh, it looks expensive."
"Oh it is!" He said proudly.
"Well, I'd like to pay some of it. Maybe I could get us dessert?"
"No way." he said, shaking his head, "This whole night is on me. You are my date. Please allow me to wine and dine you. It would only be my pleasure."
I was used to paying dutch, it only seemed fair. "Okay," I said. "But you have to let me take you out sometime."
"Perhaps," he said, but he had a smug look on his face. "Now stay put."
He got out of the car and handed the valet his keys before he ran around and got my door. I got out and he grabbed my arm as the valet handed him a ticket. He pocketed it, then led me into the restaurant. It had a large ornate entrance room. A man in a nice suit stood behind a podium. He looked us up and down as we approached and once more I regretted my attire. They might not let us eat here. Wren pulled some money from his pocket and gave it to the man as he said, "Baker."
The man behind the podium lit up with recognition, "Ah, of course, your table has been ready!"
"Thank you," said Wren.
"Is your last name Baker?" I asked.
"Yes," he said, pulling me along.
"Mine is Evert. I'm not sure if I told you."
"You did," he said, urging me to move faster.
We followed the man thought the restaurant. It really was something! There was low lighting, secluded tables and a large water fall fountain, in the middle of the room. We went up to the second floor and he took us to a secluded round table in the back. It was already set up with table cloth and place settings. There was a candle in the center of the table and the man lit it as we sat down. He nodded to us then walked off.
Not even a second later, another man approached with the menus. He handed them to us and asked "May I get you something from the wine list?"
"Yes," said Wren. He took my menu before I could even open it. "We'll have Red Carvasa Three, the sampler for the horderves. I'll have the Chesser Seafood Platter and she''ll have the Teskena Pasta. For drinks, I'll have a Roguer and she'll have grape soda. For dessert we'll have the Cramson with two scoops of ice cream on the side."
I stared at him bewildered as the waiter took everything down and said. "Very good sir,"
"I want as little interruption as possible, only approach for serving and refills. I'll let you know if anything else is required."
"Yes sir," said the waiter, then he turned and left.
It was just us now and we sat there in silence. I'd never had anyone take charge like that and order for me. What if I didn't like the food? How could he possibly know what I liked? I heard grape soda in the mix so maybe I'd just sip that. My stomach rumbled at the various smells wafting through the room. Maybe I was hungry enough that I'd just eat whatever they served.
The waiter returned with ice waters, a wine bottle and a basket of bread. He quickly poured us each a glass of wine, then set the ice waters and bread basket down. I saw the bread basket was an assortment of bread. I lit up looking at it. I loved bread and saw a few I'd never seen before. I reached out to grab a piece, but Wren picked up the basket.
"The food here is amazing, trust me you don't want to fill up on bread." He handed the basket back to the waiter, who seemed surprised. I wondered if he'd ever had a basket returned.
"It is complementary," The waiter said.
"No thank you," Wren said, not taking his eyes off me.
The waiter took the basket and left. We sat in silence for another moment as Wren sipped some ice water. I bit my lip then eventually asked, "So what did you order us,"
"Pasta and seafood. This place has the best seafood,"
"So you like seafood?" I asked.
He nodded, "What about you my love? What do you enjoy?"
"Oh well," I said blushing. He was looking at me so intensely, like he really cared and wasn't just asking because I'd asked. "I like seafood too, mostly sushi, but I really like... bread." I half-hearty smiled and he flinched. He looked in the direction the waiter had gone and his eyes shifted from side to side. "I also like cheese and chocolate."
"Oh," he said
The man that had been behind the podium, suddenly walked by with a well dressed couple behind him. He showed them to their table, and I couldn't help but notice the women's nice dress. I looked down at my attire again, old shirt and a rip in my jeans...but I was comfor-"
"It's fine," Wren said. I thought he was talking to me, but when I looked up at him, his eyes were still shifting from side to side as he looked down at the table. He suddenly noticed I was watching him and smiled. "Sorry, I'm feeling a bit cold. I probably should have worn a sweater"
"Oh," I said. I instinctively reached out and covered his hands with my own. His hands were indeed cold. He looked down at our hands and then up at me. There was a soft look in his eyes. The longer I held his hands the more I felt the chill. It started to make me cold."Wow! Your hands are really cold!"
"They always have been."
"You ever consider mittens?"
"I think I much prefer your hands," He said, then he grasped hold of my hands and brought them up to his lips. He softly kissed them and then again and again. I blushed! I'd been so unsure if he liked me, now I had no doubt.
"So how was your day?"he asked as he kept on kissing my hands.
"Uh, it was pretty eventful. We worked on my storyline for the next month. Sandie's hoping to keep my character around for a while. Maybe even get it a name."
"Hmm," he said. "Did you have one in mind?"
"Amelia." I said and he paused looking at me.
"I heard it in a dream."
He looked thoughtful for a second and I slipped my hands away. I took a sip of wine. It tasted sweet like cherries. He picked up his glass, then swirled it before taking a whiff of it. He brought it up to his lips and took a small sip. The sampler plate arrived and I wasn't sure what some of it was, but I took a bite of everything and most of it was good. After a few bites I noticed he hadn't touched it at all. He was just watching me eat.
I stopped eating, hoping he'd dig in. We sat there for a moment, then I asked, "What about your day? How was it?"
He let out a heavy sigh and sat back in his chair. "It was a fairly nice day, until I met you in the parking lot, sow it's fantastic."
"Oh," I said blushing again. I grabbed another piece from the sampler plate. I ate it slowly then asked, "Are you not hungry?"
"I am," he said.
"I just noticed you haven't eaten,"
"I got this for you. I've eaten here dozens of times. I want you to find what you like. I'll eat whatever you don't."
"Oh." I said. "Well, I've tried it all and I like most of it. So if you want anything you can have it."
"Is there anything you liked more then the others?"
"Ahh," I tried to think, but it was hard when he kept looking at me like that and saying such things. "It was this I think." I pointed to what I'd eaten the most of.
"Then you can have the rest," He said, before he finally ate something. I sat and watched him take a few bites before he wiped his mouth, then took a sip of his wine. When he set his glass down, he leaned in and asked, "I was wondering, is Mindy short for anything?"
"Uh no," I said, not liking the full version of my name.
He stared at me for a moment like he could tell I was lying. "Really? It feels like there is more to it,"
I swallowed my throat feeling dry, "Oh." I picked up my ice water and took a few gulps. When I set it down he was still staring at me.
After a good minute he simply said, "Yes."
I let out a sigh, but got it over with. "Well actually, it's short for Mindolin."
"Mindolin interesting, I've never heard that name before."
"Most people haven't." I said with a laugh. "My mother likes unique names. I have a brother named Dendili, he goes by Denny and a sister name Joanolin. She goes by Joanie.
"Do you mind if I called you Mindolin?" he asked, before taking a sip of his ice water.
"Uh, if you want, but I'm not really a fan of it."
"It's your name isn't it?"
"Yes, but I much prefer, Mindy."
"Ah, but Mindolin is beautiful, it suits you very much. I think you should embrace it."
"Maybe one day," I joked, but I doubted it, given I was twenty-two, I'd pretty much made up my mind.
Some music started playing and I looked around the restaurant. I saw a man in a tuxedo with a violin, a few tables over. He was serenading a couple, specifically the women as her man handed her a rose. She looked overjoyed as she only looked at her man. I thought it was romantic. I looked back at Wren and he'd noticed my attention had wandered. He quickly waved down the waiter and whispered something to him. The man nodded as Wren handed him money.
I wondered what that was about, but didn't ask. I drank some more wine and watched as the violinist finished his piece. Several people clapped and I joined in. A second later, the waiter approached the man with the violin, and whispered something to him. Both men then looked in our direction.
I froze, then turned to Wren. "You didn't!"
He got a big smirk on his face before he drank some of his wine. The violinist came over and started playing for me. I must have looked like a tomato, I was so overwhelm. I had thought it was romantic, but hadn't thought I'd be next! I looked to Wren and he suddenly had a rose. I wondered if it came with the violinist. I let out a nervous laugh as he handed me the rose. I couldn't stop grinning, but this was honestly too much! It felt like it should be for an older couple, not two people on a first date. Still, I took the moment for what it was and enjoyed the music and attention.
When the man was finished there was applause again and I joined in once more. Wren handed him some money and the man left to play for another table. I saw a women was following him with a bundle of roses and let out a laugh.
Then I shook my head at Wren and said, "You didn't have to do that."
"You wanted it, didn't you."
"I enjoyed the music," I admitted. "And yes I've never had something like that happen before, but it feels like it should be for a couple who's been together longer. This is only our first date."
"The first of many," he said, raising his wine glass to me. I met it with my own and we drank to that. After, he asked. "What kind of music do you like?"
"All sort really, not everything, but its hard to pinpoint. I don't rule out any genre just songs I dislike. I'm mostly into alternative, mood music and trance. How about you?"
"Classical."
"Just Classical?"
"Yes." He said, "I prefer instrumental to lyrics."
"I don't mind classical. Any favorite pieces?"
"Yes."
"I'd love to listen to them sometime."
He nodded, then asked, "So what brings you to Darrow's Park?"
"What brings me?"
"Yes, why work at a theme park, when you can work anywhere. Especially, if you're not one for the spotlight. Which you take me as."
"Oh, well this is my first time doing something like this. I was just looking for work any work. I applied to Darrow's hoping to be a food vendor or something, but Berry saw me and I got caught up in all this."
"Hmm, so why were you looking for work? Were you fresh our of college, in between jobs or just looking to change things up."
"Oh, well my mom wanted me to find a job." I knew how lame that sounded.
"What did you do before this?"
I let out a heavy sigh. I wasn't going to tell him I couldn't keep a job and was wallowing in my sorrows. "I uh, mostly volunteer."
"Where at?"
My wasn't he twenty one questions. I wasn't used to someone being so interested in my life. "Uh, well the library."
"Did you enjoy it?"
"Oh very much so!"
"Then why not become a librarian?"
"I'd love to, but you need a ton of classes and even then they aren't really hiring. They mostly have one or two librarians and rely on volunteers for the rest."
"So your mom asked you to get a job and you left volunteering at the library to work at Darrow's."
"Something like that." I said, not wanting to tell him I'd been let go from the library. Maybe one day, but not on a first date. "I need money. My parents are ready for me to move out."
"Ah, so you still live with them."
"Yeah, but I should be moving out in a few months. Maybe sooner, depending on how much we get paid."
"You ever consider going back to college?"
"Nah, it wasn't for me."
"Why not?"
"I don't know. It was expensive and I didn't really know what I wanted to do. You probably don't want to hear about any of this. I feel like we're only talking about me."
"That's because I'm very interested in you and want to know everything about you."
"Oh," I said as he gave me an intense look. Those ice blue eyes of his were piercing and with that face, be still my heart. I had to look away. I took a long sip of my ice water, then looked back at him. I truly didn't understand how someone like him wasn't already taken and that he was interested in me, no very interested! "I- Sorry I just- Why? Like why are you very interested in me?"
"Who wouldn't be." he gave me a look, like I'd asked a stupid question, but I honestly didn't get why.
Maybe he thought I was pretty, yeah, but to ask so many questions and want to know everything. This felt like some other level. I realized now Brett hadn't asked a lot of questions. Sure we talked about the future, about who we would become one day, but as to the past and people we currently were, we hadn't touched on it much. If anything, I offered up information and made an effort to share things. Maybe that was yet another warning sign in the relationship. To be fair, I hadn't asked him a lot either. I knew some things, but I didn't know everything about him...otherwise him leaving wouldn't have been a surprise.
"What?" Wren asked titling his head.
"Sorry, just lost in thought,"
"Care to share?" he said, "I'm all ears,"
"It's nothing. I was just thinking… can anyone truly know everything about someone."
"I aim to try," he said with a smirk.
A cart suddenly pulled up next to the table and the food had arrived.
"Oh wow that was fast!"
"Yes," said Wren, he seemed disappointed.
I eagerly watched the waiter put down the various dishes. I got a white pasta that seem to have bits of crab meat in it. Wren got an assorted plate of seafood. I got my grape soda and Wren got a brown drink, a Roguer, I think was?
The waiter gave us a smile, then asked, "Is everything to your liking?"
"Yes," said Wren, looking everything over.
"Would you like some cheese madam?" asked the waiter, turning to me.
It was my first time being called madam. I wish I could have been mature about it, but I gave a little squeal, then said. "Yes please."
The waiter quickly pulled some cheese and a grater from the cart, then moved over my plate. "Please tell me when you are satisfied."
I nodded and he began grating cheese over my pasta. I let him go on for a good minute or so, then nodded, "This should do,"
The waiter nodded back and stopped, "Please let me know if you need anything and when you'd like your dessert to be brought out,"
"Yes," said Wren, then he motioned for the waiter to come over. He whispered something to him before the waiter left, taking the cart with him.
Wren flashed me a charming smile, then gestured to the food and said. "Shall we."
I picked up my fork and took a small bite. It was hot, but not too hot. I was immediately hit with an array of flavors. I could takes the different cheeses and the sauce had this creaminess too it. The crab meat added to everything and the textures were amazing. The noodles felt like they could melt in my mouth and the meat was so tender. I took three, maybe four bites before I looked over and saw him looking at me. He was absolutely fixated! I grabbed my napkin worried I had something on my face.
I dabbed around my mouth and nose then said, "Eat."
"I will," he said, "Once I know that you enjoy your dish."
"Very much so," I nodded, then took another bite.
"Good, good," he said, then looked down at his own plate, "Would you like a bite of anything?"
"Sure," I said, "Would you like some of my pasta?"
"I'd love a bite." he said, then opened his mouth and waited.
I stared at him for a moment, then realized he wanted me to feed him. I
took up a small amount and moved it towards him. He ate it, then picked up a large shrimp from his plate and offered it to me. I reached for it, but he pulled away and smiled. I realized he wanted to feed me so I opened my mouth and let him. It had to be one of the best shrimp I'd ever had, it burst with such flavor. I closed my eyes for a second enjoying it.
When I opened my eyes again, he was back with another shrimp. I took it and then it was three types of crab, followed by some lobster tail. He kept going, picking up his fork, he took up some fish meat, first red, then white. He grabbed another portion of something and I quickly covered my mouth with my napkin.
I finished chewing the piece of fish he'd given me, then said. "Are you going to feed me your entire meal? I don't want to take it all."
"You're not!" he said, eagerly. "And I could always order more. I just want you to try everything. I love watching you eat! Your face is so expressive and your eyes. You are truly breathtaking."
"Oh," I said, getting flushed again, "Thank you, but you should eat too. You must be hungry."
"I'm famished!" he said, breathlessly. I gave him a look and had a strange feeling like he wasn't talking about food.
He moved the piece of food to my lips urging me to continue. I took the bite, but made it clear, "I'd like to have more of my pasta." He frowned a little and I pointed out. "I'm still eating, aren't I."
He scowled at me for a second them smiled, "I suppose so, but you haven't tried everything."
"Then I guess we'll have to come back."
He lit up at that, "Yes. Yes we will!"
"Yes, now eat!" I insisted.
He gave me a little look of protest, but dug in and finally ate. Though he acted like he hadn't in a while. He moved quickly and half his plate like vanished. I paused watching him eat. He kept closing his eyes. I could tell he really loved seafood. After a while, he looked across the table at me and smiled with a mouth full of food, and said, "Happy."
I chuckled, then said "You don't have to wolf it down, but yes,"
I took a few bites of my pasta, then had some grape soda. I looked around and saw the waiter coming over with another cart. Was it time for dessert already? Had Wren given him a signal? The waiter parked the cart next to our table and I looked at it wide eyed as I saw an assortment of bread. There had to be a dozen or so different slices, rolls or biscuits and some of them had toppings.
"What is this?" I couldn't help but gasp.
"Every type of bread they have at the restaurant. You said you liked bread, yes." He said with a sly smirk.
"I do, but this is so much! Too much for me, for anyone to eat in one siting!"
"Then you'll simply have to take it home." he said, before taking a drink of his Roguer "I swear you're spoiling me!" I laughed.
He reached out and grasped hold of my hand. He gave me another intense look and we locked eyes as he said, "When you are with me, you shall want for nothing. I will provide every comfort to you. Let me always be the one you turn to in your time of need,"
Again he was so poetic. It was going to be a struggle not to fall for him, with the words and looks he gave me. I bit my lip thinking of how hard I'd fallen last time. I pulled my hand back and knew I needed to be cautious, because I might not survive a second time...at least my heart wouldn't!
I tried to act casual, but my chest felt heavy and I suddenly felt wary of everything. I'd let myself get caught up in the moment once again, but quickly brought myself back to realty. I still didn't know him...we just met. This was only a first date! An amazing first date, but a first date none the less.
I couldn't fall in love with someone on a first date...shouldn't! Of course, I already had feelings for him. From the start...from the moment I saw those ice blue eyes of his, he'd clouded my heart and mind. I'd welcomed it, been confused by it and now that I knew he cared, I needed to be ever so careful.
"You're so sweet, "I said, finally responding to what he'd said. I reached out and grabbed some bread.
He looked at me, really looked at me and asked, "What is it?"
"Nothing," I said, "I'm hungry.
"You're guarded," he said, catching my gaze, "You don't have to be with me. I mean what I say!"
I didn't respond. I simply smiled then took a bite of the bread. It was good, really good, almost enough to distract me, but not quite.
"What happened?" he asked, "I can see the pain in your eyes. You've been hurt before."
Was I that much of an open book? First Jules and now Wren. Could they see the heartache written across my face so easily? I let out a nervous laugh and said, "The bread is really good. This whole night has been really good."
I hoped he'd take a hint and drop it. Things were going really great and I wanted them to keep going great. He flared his nostrils and I could see he was not happy with my deflection, but I was not ready to have this conversation with him. It was going to take time. I liked him, I really did, but I reminded myself I liked Brett. Wren could say all the beautiful words in the world, but only his actions and time would tell.
I watched him closely as I finished off my piece of bread. He took a deep breath, then smiled back at me, and simply said "Okay,"
He started eating again and I was able to relax. I was grateful he didn't push me...even though I knew he wanted answers. It was a good sign that he could let things go and allow me to decide when to continue. It made me happy to know he'd wait. He kept smiling at me as he seemed to enjoy his dinner. I ate some more pasta, but I was a glutton for bread and had three more slices. I wanted to keep going but held off, trying to save some room for dessert. Though honestly I didn't know how tonight could get any better.
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