I Choose You

Part 2

The date

Autumn found out a lot about John Michaels in the next few days. His track record with relationships raised many questions for her. Autumn found out he dated beautiful models, lawyers, and doctors. Autumn did not see any black women from the past.  What was this all about? They both were stepping outside their comfort zone. 

"Are you ready for your big date?" Katrina said. "Ready to get it over with," Autumn said. "Autumn, come on don't be like that. It can't be that bad," Katrina encouraged her. "Between all my friend's obsession with my love life and this strange man who smoothly pulled me into a date. I don't know how to feel right now," Autumn confessed.

"Simply be your authentic self," Katrina advised. "I will, " Autumn chimed in. Autumn picked up her phone and saw the message from John asking for her location. She had agreed to finally see him for the date.                                                                                                                                                                         "I will talk to you later," Autumn said.   " Indeed, I want all the details," Katrina quickly stated as they said their goodbyes.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               When John arrived he was the perfect gentleman. He had encouraged her to dress casually for their date.  "You look real nice," he smiled. "Thank you," she said. Her jeans and top gave her a youthful look reminding John how petite she was. He presented her with roses and she thanked him again as he viewed her apartment. It was simple, nice, and not fussy at all. He could tell Autumn was by the book. His personality was different. John loved challenges and unraveling things. Furthermore, he could tell there was so much more to her but she did not come out of her comfort zone enough. 

Autumn enjoyed the evening breeze as John drove her to his family's ranch for a picnic. She was surprised he was more down to earth than she had ever imagined. They enjoyed a picnic together, a stroll by the lake, and he showed her how to ride a horse. John could tell she was enjoying herself. Her smile was radiant even though she tried to hide it. But he caught it in little odd moments warming his heart.

As he took her off the horse their hands touched and eyes met creating an intense moment that caught Autumn off guard. "She quickly broke the eye connection and got her footing steady. 

"That was great," she said with a huge smile. "It's great because I am here with you," he smiled. Autumn hated to admit it but she actually was having a good time. He escorted her to a gazebo where they sat for a while. 

They talked about work, family goals, and ambitions. "Now that the general stuff is out of the way do you have any hard questions to ask me? I am an open book," John giggled. 

"Okay. Let's do the hard stuff," Autumn agreed. "Have you ever dated outside of your race before?" she asked. "No, you are the first," he said being sure to make eye contact. "Why did you choose me?" Autumn asked surprising herself.

"I saw a beautiful woman I was attracted to. I didn't see color at the moment when I approached you," he admitted.

"And you, why are you still single?" he asked turning the tables. "I don't know. I am looking for that special person," she admitted. John wanted to tell her she had found him but changed his mind feeling it was too soon.

"Well, I see a priceless gem in front of me. Any guy with common sense would be blessed to have you on his arm," John said. Autumn smiled, "You're good for my ego."

He laughed as her eyes took in the features of his handsome face and cute dimples. He admired her beautiful skin and dark brown eyes. 

"Who is your usual type?" she asked. "I guess blondes, brunettes, I don't discriminate," John admitted. "Exactly, I don't fit your type at all. John, why am I here? I am black and a Christian. I am not like the women you usually date," Autumn explained as they sat and talk quietly. 

"Autumn I know we have just met and you have no reason to trust. I am not going to sit here in front of you and say that I am some saint. I have had my share of relationships and all did not end well. I know what I want. I choose you. We can move at your pace and get to know each other more but Autumn I assure you I am completely interested in you and only you," he said reassuring her. 

Autumn was at a loss for words. "Well, your flattery and nice words are certainly appealing John but I don't know if we are well-matched. Time will tell and I cannot promise you anything," Autumn answered honestly. John was not giving up that easily.

"Can we at least be friends?" he asked. "Maybe, the verdict is out on that," Autumn smiled. "I will take a maybe any day than a no," John smiled back. Autumn smiled again looking at him closely wondering if John Michaels would become important in her life.