The British Princess

Part 32

Everyone heard that I hurt my foot, stepping on glass of all things, the word spreading like wildfire after Hunter and Will told Lance why I had to reschedule our date. My time with Lance was going to be an afternoon walk in the gardens, but it wouldn't be much fun if I was hobbling and arrived late.

Thomas and Isabelle came to check up on me before dinner, Izzy being sympathetic and my brother scolding me for not watching where I was walking.

Isabelle spoke about how excited she was to see Serena again tomorrow, and she glowed as she talked. I think it was the pregnancy. It made her look happy and radiant, her usual self being twice as perky.

Thomas was protective as always, helping her by doing whatever he could. He was so kind, but so stressed at the same time. I guessed it was because he had so much going on. Working with our dad every day, the baby coming, helping me control my selection. His normal relaxed demeanour hadn't been showing recently, and I think it was everything plus the fact he was going to be a father soon, and at so young.

When Isabelle was alright, comfortable and chatting away, that's when Thomas seemed a little less edgy, thankfully.

Although I had to shoo them away to dinner, insisting I was fine with my foot. It wasn't like I was incapable of doing anything.

I rested for a while, then ate my meal that was delivered to my room, before leaving to put the finishing touches on the date with Tate that could thankfully be salvaged.

It was a surprisingly nice night for winter time, not deathly cold as usual.

The rooftop, where I had set up, was decorated with twinkle lights along the banister and rose petals scattered around. I probably went over the top with decorations, but I couldn't help but light all the little candles on the table.

Although dinner was only half an hour ago, I set out some little food things. Like chocolate and marshmallows and strawberries to have on the table.

I was anxiously waiting for a few minutes, until I saw the light on the elevator change and I knew he was on his way.
I fixed my hair and smoothed my dress, which didn't change much but I wanted to look put together. I felt awkward just standing waiting in front of the elevator, so I made sure I didn't seem too eager a few steps away.

As the doors slid open and I saw Tate I found myself smiling, all doubts leaving my mind.

"Tate, hi." I say and he grinned in return.

"Charlotte, you look absolutely...breathtaking." He says, letting out a breath as he looks at my outfit and walks the few steps over to me.
He greets me with a hug, short and friendly, making me feel more relaxed in his presence.

"Thank you. You look good too. I like this colour."  I say, nodding to his shirt.

Tate's dressed up, wearing fancy black pants and a silky, ivory coloured shirt. His brown hair looks fluffy as always, and his smile is infectious.

"Thanks for inviting me on a date. I heard about your foot. I hope it's not too much trouble." He says considerately, glancing down to the bandage that's poking out from my black shoe.

"It's fine." I say and motion to the table I had set up, "I thought some time on the rooftop this evening would be nice. Thoughts?"

"It looks awesome up here." Tate says, admiring the set up. His forest eyes search the space, taking it all in with a pleasant smile.