Hand In Glove

Chapter 34

Chloe arrived back at five, giving herself plenty of time to get ready. First she needed a glass of water. Stepping into the kitchen, she poured herself a tall glass. She heard Ashton coming down the stairs and turned toward him. "Good, you're back. I was getting a little nervous," he said with a smile and a sigh of relief.

"Why would you be nervous?" Chloe asked.

"I was starting to think you'd taken Nick up on his offer to go over to his place this afternoon."

Chloe couldn't help but smile. "You don't have to worry your pretty head about that, my dear sir. I've only got eyes for you," she said, watching his cheeks redden. "Hey, look who's blushing now." She caressed his cheek. "Aw, how sweet."

Taking her hand in his, he smiled sheepishly, having gotten caught. "Never mind, just make sure you're ready for six-thirty. By the way, I love the hair," he said, twirling a strand of Chloe's hair. It was newly trimmed and set wavy, loose around her shoulders.

"I'll see you then," Chloe said, walking to her room.

Chloe did her best to get ready on time. Rifling through her closet, she found a sleeveless black dress that she hadn't yet worn. It framed her chest nicely with a sweetheart neckline. It came in at the waist and flared out to just above her knees. She wore sheer black nylons and black pumps. She gently tousled her hair and put on her makeup. Glancing at the clock, she realized it was six-fifteen.

She felt the butterflies in her stomach. She didn't really know what to think. No doubt, she was excited about her date with Ashton. He had said he was going to prove himself to her. Maybe this night was part of his big plan. She smiled at herself in the mirror. He was going to have to work it. She wasn't going to make it easy on him. As much as she liked the thought of giving in, she couldn't risk it again until she was sure.

She heard his footsteps outside her door followed by a gentle knock. Slowly, Chloe opened the door and she felt her jaw drop. Ashton looked as close to perfect as anyone should ever dare. He wore a dark fitted suit, a crisp white shirt with a silver edged tie and shiny black shoes. His hair was perfectly styled and he wore no eyeliner tonight. He was in such contrast to his usual rockstar persona, yet just as yummy.

"Wow, who are you?" Chloe asked.

"Who am I? I'm the luckiest guy in the world tonight." He slowly took her in. "You look so gorgeous, Chloe. I don't think my heart can take it," he said, clutching his chest.

"Come on, you, we should get going," she said with a smile, brushing by him. "We don't want to be late."

They arrived at the restaurant and were seated right away. He held her hand and carried his guitar over his shoulder, resting it down beside his chair. Their table was situated near a little stage. Ashton had explained that it was kind of an Open Mic affair, with a few performers expected that night. It was an elegant restaurant, and from the looks of the crowd, extremely popular. It was a full house and had a distinct European ambiance.

Ashton pulled her chair out for her. The waitress came along promptly and Ashton ordered a bottle of wine, some water, and appetizers. Chloe couldn't help but smile at his confidence. The way he interacted with people never ceased to impress her. He was always so courteous. A few people at the restaurant had recognized him right away and he made sure to acknowledge them individually.

She studied the menu and decided on the chicken penne. Ashton ordered himself a steak and Chloe's pasta when the waitress returned with the wine and appetizers.

Ashton poured Chloe a generous glass of wine and himself a glass of water. "Are you having a good time so far, Chloe?" he asked, pushing the glass slowly toward her.