Fate's Playbook

Chapter 23 - Good Food And Even Better Company

"Good food and even better company can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience." - Unknown 

As we arrived at the Italian restaurant, I could already smell the delicious aroma of tomato sauce, garlic and freshly baked bread wafting out into the street. My stomach rumbled in anticipation, and I knew that tonight was going to be a great night.

The car pulled up in front of the restaurant, and my friend and I got out, adjusting our jackets and smoothing down our hair. As we walked towards the entrance, we could see the warm glow of the lights inside, and the sound of laughter and chatter drifted out towards us.

As soon as we stepped inside, a hostess greeted us with a warm smile. "Good evening, welcome to Italiano. Do you have a reservation?" she asked.

I nodded. "Yes, we're here for the reservation under the name Grey."

The hostess checked her list and smiled. "Ah, yes. Right this way, please. Your party has already arrived."

I followed her as she led us through the busy restaurant, past tables filled with happy diners enjoying their meals. I couldn't wait to sit down and join my friends, to share stories and laughter over delicious food and good wine.

As we reached the table where my friends were seated, I could see Luca, William, and two others sitting around the table, chatting and laughing as they sipped on their drinks. I couldn't help but smile as I approached them, feeling grateful for these friends and this moment.

We reached their table and sat down. They all greeted us and Luca introduced us to Stefan and Noah. Luca, Stefan, Noah and William all met their first year of college and have been inseparable since. Our waiter came and asked what we would like to order.

 We ordered different Italian dishes and because we are underage we ordered coke. While the others were conversing, Luca leaned down and whispered in my ear that I look wonderful.

"Thanks, you don't look so bad yourself," I replied, feeling my cheeks flush.

"I'm glad you could make it tonight," he said, flashing a charming smile.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," I replied, feeling grateful for the invitation.

The conversation at the table flowed smoothly. We talked about our majors, our interests and hobbies, and our future plans. I found myself enjoying the company of Luca and his friends. They were all intelligent, witty, and charming in their own ways.

As we waited for our food to arrive, Luca and I continued to exchange glances. I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my stomach every time his eyes met mine. I wondered if he felt the same way.

"Hey, have you guys heard about the new coffee shop that just opened up near campus?" William asked, interrupting my thoughts.

"No, what's it called?" Stefan asked.

"It's called 'Café Paradiso.' Apparently, they serve the best coffee in town," William said.

"I've heard of it," Luca said, "I've been meaning to check it out."

"Maybe we could all go there for our next hangout?" Noah suggested.

"That sounds like a great idea," Lily said, looking excited.

We continued to chat and laugh, and I found myself feeling more comfortable around Luca and his friends.

After we finished eating our food Lily suggested that we all get to know each other by explaining themselves in a few sentences.

"I'll start" Lily says, "I am a 19-year-old student studying psychology at Grey College. Nora is my best friend, and I am an only child who is close to my parents. I have a passion for baking and cooking, and I hope to travel Paris one day."

She looks at me and tells me that it is my turn now.

"I'm a 19-year-old student studying business at Grey College. Lily over there is my best friend. My older brother, Colin Dawson, is the quarterback for the Detroit Lions. Sadly, my dad passed away when I was younger, but I'm close to my mom. I enjoy reading, and my ultimate goal is to own my own company one day."

"NO FUCKING WAY! Your brother is THE COLIN DAWSON?" I hear four voices shout at me at the same time.

"I didn't know that it was such a big deal, but yes." I reply laughing.

The four of them are still looking at me with amazement on their faces when I nudge Luca and tell him that it is his turn.

"I'm a 20-year-old business student and also happen to be the captain of our college football team. I'm close to my parents, grandparents, and cousin. My biggest dream is to become a successful NFL player, but I also enjoy reading in my free time." I hear Luca say looking prideful.

Luca tells Stefan that it is his turn next.

"I'm 21 years old and currently studying medicine. My little sister is my pride and joy, but I'm not very close with my parents. While being a doctor is my ultimate goal, I'm considering trying out for the NFL as well." Stefan says.

"It's your turn next Noah" Lily says looking at him.

"I'm a 21-year-old student studying to become a lawyer. I'm an only child, and unfortunately, my parents and I don't see eye to eye. One of my biggest dreams is to travel the world and hopefully meet Selena Gomez. I also play football. " He says laughing.

We all couldn't help but laugh with him. 

"Your turn, babe" Lily encourages William. 

"I'm a 20-year-old studying business, and I have two younger siblings. My parents and I get along well. I have aspirations of playing in the NFL someday, and I'm currently dating Lily." he says.

"What! You guys are dating? Since when?" I asked suprised.

"Well yesterday I finally gathered up the courage to ask her to be my girlfriend and she said yes." William replied.

"Wow! Congratulations guys. You make a lovely couple" Stefan said and I nodded in agreement.

"Thank you guys for understanding. We decided that we were going to tell everyone tonight. Trust me Nora, I was dying to tell you and I'm so glad that you know now." Lily said looking at me.

"I totally understand and I'm really happy for you guys" I say looking at the two of them, "William, hurt my best friend and you will wish that you never existed."

William turned pale and I laughed.

"Damn, feisty." Noah said looking at me.

The next moment I feel Luca's arm around my shoulders. He also moved my chair closer to him and away from Noah. Noah looked at him with curious eyes and Luca only glared at him.

Oh my god! Luca is jealous.