KhanRose Riding Academy

Chapter 22: Dates and Boyfriends? NO!

"You look great!" Scarlet said as she looked at me, ready for my date with Luke.

My hair was behind me curled in light beach waves, my blond and dark brown highlights showing. I was in high waisted coral shorts, a navy blue thick strap tank top with three large ruffles on it, silver flats with crystals on the top straps, silver feather earrings, and a thick chain silver feather necklace. Scarlet let me use the jewelry, and it topped off the outfit perfectly.

My nails were painted silver, thanks to Scar. She had put a light concealer under my eyes, with a light peach blush. Along with black eyeliner, mascara lined my long lashes.

"Thank you for everything." I said giving her a hug before grabbing my silver clutch.

Luke said he would be here around 7, and I was out side making my way to the court yard at 6:57. The darkness over took me, and I found the court yard by the lights on the side of the side walk.

"Is that you Ms. Ella Grace?" I heard a deep voice ask through the night.

"Luke," I started "thank you"

He came out of the darkness and took my breath away. He was in khakis that fit perfectly, a light blue, light green, and white plaid shirt. It had a collar, and sleeves that rolled right above his elbow. His tan sperrys topped the outfit off. His dark brown hair was gelled to spike in the front, and his gentle eyes sparkled in the light.

"Wow, you look amazing." He breathed.

Blushing slightly, I replied "You do to."

"Shall we go then? Take this as your first meal since the-" he paused "dark ages"

After we started walking out of the courtyard, I asked "Where are we going?"

"A French restaurant, it's a good size bigger than the soup place."

"Thank you, thank you so much. Y-you have no clue Luke. This is the sweetest thing some one has ever done for me."

"Wait" he started "You have never had a boyfriend that had done anything like this for you?"

After a small time period of silence and taking in the sunset of the campus I replied blushing "I have never had a boyfriend."

He suddenly stopped walking and whipped his head over to me. "You have never.." Then trailed off.

I looked at my hands and whispered "No"

"Well then, let's get on with your first date." He said with a grin, and we started walking again.

After we got to the restaurant named Epicure. The place was decorated in dark colors, and it had low lighting.

"Reservation for two, named Luke." Luke spoke to the girl at the front.

We were lead to a booth, and left with a menu for each. I opened it and automatically decided on a house salad.

"What are you getting?" Luke asked while scanning his menu.

After glancing at his muscles on his arms I replied "House Salad."

His eyes flicked up harshly and fell on me. "Only a salad." He almost spat out, but was covered up by a sliver of care.

After taking me back, my hand clenched up in a fist as I said "Yes. That's all I want."

I guess he realized what he said and took and deep breath, and dropped his gaze while closing his eyes. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to say it like that. I just thought you should get more to eat. It's ok. I'm just concerned."

"It's fine." I say stiffly. Then without thinking I blurted out, "Why do you care about me so much?" My breath hitched after realizing what I said, and tensed up.

He looked as surprised as me, but soon covered it up with a sweet teddy bear act. "Because, your so fragile and you trust easy. I don't want you to get in with the wrong crowd and acts."

"Why should I trust you?" I said after crossing my arms and leaning back in my seat.

"I want to help you. I want to be here for you."

Wow.

"Ok" is all I can muster out.

After ordering our drinks and food, we devoured it, then walked out into the inky darkness.

"I'll walk you home." He said.

As we walk home, I say "Thank you."

"No, thank you. If you ever need anything, tell me. I'll always be here."

"You know I need to focus on school and riding, so I'm never going to be able have a boyfriend. Really."

"I know that. I don't want to have you for just a girlfriend, I want you as a friend. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't mind it, you and me, but if that's what you want, then I'm ok with that." He smiles.

"Ok. Thank you. That was awkward." I blush, hoping the darkness covers it up.

"No, because we both know what has to happen. Don't be mad if I still like you." He says.

"You sure are sure of your self." I laugh.

He joins me laughing, and we reach the dorm all too soon.

"This is it. Thank you for letting me take you out. Until then." He says and takes me off my feet by hugging me.

I walk inside, and make my way to my room. Once getting inside I see a happy Scarlet waiting for me.

"OMG! How was it!" She asks.

"Great" is all I say.