Ican almost taste those hushpuppies at the Turtle Tide. Hannah wasn’t exaggerating when she accused me of going on and on about them. They’re this perfect blend of fried batter, seasoning, and crab that melts in your mouth and delights your senses. They’re also my favorite comfort food when paired with the remoulade sauce that’s unlike any other I’ve ever tasted.
But that’s not top priority on my mind tonight. Hannah and I haven’t exactly started this relationship in the usual way. You know, go on dates, spend more time together, then fall in love. Weeks of physical therapy sessions and training don’t count in my mind, so I want to do this first date right.
I intend towooHannah and show her how beautiful and amazing she is, inside and out. After I open the passenger door and hold Hannah’s hand as she gets out, I dash to the trunk to retrieve a bag holding a bottle of champagne and two glasses. Before we enter the restaurant for dinner, I’ve planned a romantic toast on the beach.
And we have a lot to celebrate. Bandit’s recovery. My recertification. And especially, this thing between us, which, in my mind and heart, is the biggest of the three.
The vision of her in a strapless pale green dress left me dumbstruck when she opened her door earlier. Definitely a far cry from her usual scrubs. Luckily, she has a wrap to cover her shoulders against the cool evening air. It’s not as nice as her cozy afghan, but I brought along an oversized towel, just in case. This time of year, the evenings can be quite chilly, especially on the beach.
She pulls her brows together in a frown when she sees the bag. “What’s that?”
“You’ll see.” I take her hand and lead her to the sandy path that runs between the restaurant and the Sand Piper Inn next door. I spent most of the day rehearsing what I want to say to her.
She pulls me to a stop. “Where are we going?”
“I have a little something planned for us before dinner.” I hold up the bag.
She checks her watch. “Don’t we have a reservation for, like, now?”
I grin. “Technically, in thirty minutes. I told you an earlier time because I wanted to surprise you.”
She tugs her wrap tighter, regrettably hiding her creamy shoulders that I’d love to run my fingers over at the moment. “It’s too cold to go on the beach, Nick. Can’t we do this inside?”
Her eyes plead with me, and…I’m disappointed, but I can’t resist. “Sure.”
“Thank you,” she sing-songs.
I run the bag back to my car and then meet Hannah at the entrance.
She leans in and kisses my cheek. “I promise you won’t regret it.”
I don’t know if she’s referring to something later or what. As long as I’m with her, I’m good. Doesn’t matter what we’re doing. I open the door and follow her inside.
And get blasted with a restaurant full of people yelling, “Surprise!”
Hannah’s laughing and clapping her hands next to me. “It’s your celebration party, Nick!”
I sweep the room, taking in so many familiar faces. And they’re here for me?
Before I can thank her, Zane and Callie greet us. He turns our bro shake into a bro hug. “Congrats, man. Proud of you.”
My chest tightens at his words. “Thanks for always having my back, man.”
“Always.” He shoots me the Shaka sign, and I reciprocate with one.
Callie gives me a hug. “Can’t wait to have you back, Nick.”
“Can’t wait to be back.” I’m overwhelmed but in a good way. And floored that Hannah did this for me. I’m really looking forward to when we’re alone so I can kiss her senseless for doing this for me.
Next in line are Graham and Liam, along with more bro hugs.
Liam walks off, but Graham puts a hand on my shoulder and the other on Hannah’s. He’s grinning and shaking his head at the same time, as if he’s in delightful disbelief. Then walks away without a word.
“Well, that was interesting.” Hannah snickers.
“I think he’s still getting used to the idea of you and me dating.”
Her tone turns adorably sarcastic. “When is that going to happen, by the way?”
