It certainly did have a ring to it, although I was conflicted. My best friend was all grown up and about to become a mother.
What had I done with my life?
Sure, I had a successful events and catering company, but that didn’t exactly keep me warm in bed at night. I couldn’t find a relationship if my life depended on it.
Of course, I mostly held Andre responsible for this. He had ruined me for anyone else. I didn’t trust easily now, and it took me a long time to feel comfortable with someone.
“When’s Aunty Willa going to come back and see her godson or goddaughter?” Scarlett paused. “I miss you.”
Argh, she really knew how to get to me.
Scarlett always pushed me to visit, but the idea of running into Andre kept me away. Even though he’d been away at college too, I couldn’t run the risk. I didn’t want to stir up those old memories and fall for him all over again.
“Get married, I can cater the wedding and then I’ll come back,” I teased.
“If that’s the only way to get you back to Cali Cross, then I’ll tie Wes down until he agrees.” Scarlett laughed. “Seriously, Willa. I haven’t seen you in ages. I know we talk all the time but it’s not the same as gossiping in person.”
She was right. It had been a long time. I missed her too.
“Talking of gossip, I have a date tonight.” Speaking to Scarlett cemented the idea in my mind that I should go out with Tom later.
“Ooo, really? Tell me more.”
I briefed her on what little I knew about him. I guessed after tonight I’d know a lot more.
Tori appeared with the last of our things and put them in the van. She leaned patiently against the door while I finished up with Scarlett.
“I’ll call you tomorrow with all the sordid details.”
“Looking forward to it already. Oh, and Willa?”
“Yes?”
“Enjoy it for what it is. You don’t have to fall in love with him on date one. Give it a chance, you might even get as far as date two.”
I laughed. She knew me too well. It had been a long time since I’d made it to date two. Maybe Tom was the one for it to happen with.
“Love you, Scar,” I said. “I will come home soon, I promise.” For the first time in a long while, I think I meant it.
“I’m holding you to that,” she replied. “Love you too.”
“Ready to go?” asked Tori, as soon as I’d hung up.
“Yes, I am.” I threw my hands up into the air. “I have a date to get ready for.”
We’d agreed to keep the date low-key; arranging to meet at a tapas bar in the center of town. Tom had booked a table. Good thing too. The place heaved with Tuesday night diners. I was starving. When I catered an event, I usually relied on leftovers to keep me going for a couple of days. However, Allana’s miniature menu and hordes of guests meant there hadn’t been much left, not even a pinwheel sandwich. I hoped Tom wouldn’t be able to hear my stomach growling.
In line with the low-key venue, I’d dressed down and paired my black jeans with a scoop-necked burgundy blouse adding a pair of matching shoes - flats, because my feet were killing me. I’d made an effort with my hair and make-up, taking time to create a wavy look with my blonde hair and trying to master a smoky eye. I looked good, even if I said so myself.
Tom was already waiting in the crowded lobby for me when I arrived. He kissed me on both cheeks and the waitress showed us to our table.
“You look lovely,” he said, as we sat down. “Red really suits you.”
“Thank you.” I smiled. I wasn’t used to compliments. “So, do you.”
He was wearing jeans and a dark blue Polo shirt. His black hair was casually styled, although it looked as if he’d used a little too much product. I didn’t relish the thought of running my fingers through it.
We ordered a bottle of Malbec and I started perusing the menu.
