Italian Obsession

Chapter 76

Justin

"Did I tell you how beautiful you look?"

Valentina looked at me and nodded. "You did."

"I made a reservation at Ruth's Chris."

"That restaurant is so expensive though."

"I wanted tonight to be special for just you and I."

After we arrived, the hostess took us to a table in the back and placed the menus on the table. "Take your time, I will be back shortly."

"So, why did you bring me here?"

"Because I think you have been doing an amazing job. I honestly think you're one of the most hard-working employees."

"Really?"

"Yes. Especially considering that you've only been there for a few months."

"Well, I try to put all the effort I can to do my job as best as I can."

"Well, goal achieved."

"I must ask you something."

"Of course."

"Are you single?"

"Getting straight to the point, eh? I like that."

She shook her head. "My ex-husband was married to my sister at the time when I met him, and two kids later, he couldn't care less. Well, I should say my son is his but anyways, I can't put myself in that position again."

"Your sister?"

"Yeah. It was just a huge disaster."

"Well, I've been single for five years, Valentina."

"I didn't think a guy as attractive as you would be single and..."

"You think I'm attractive?"

"It is just a compliment."

"Are you sure about that?"

"Yeah."

"Well, I feel the same about you."

"Look... I don't know if you're trying to get with me or anything like that, but I have two children and I really don't need a random guy getting involved in their lives to potentially hurt me."

"I am not like that, Valentina. Not at all."

"I just... I can't get involved with an employer again. Especially my boss because the last time that happened, it was just a disaster and..."

Valentina shook her head. "Sorry, I am rambling."

"No, it is completely okay. It sounds like you're going through a lot."

"Yeah, I have."

"Well, do give it a thought."

"Give what a thought?"

"Us getting together at some point."

After we finished dinner, I couldn't get my mind off of wanting to kiss her, but I honestly didn't know how she would react. Once I pulled up next to her driveway, she opened the door and smiled. "Thank you for tonight, Justin."

"Of course."

Just as she shut the door, I got out and grabbed her wrist. "Valentina, just a second..."

She looked at me and raised her eyebrows. "Yes?"

"I need to do this before I change my mind."

"Do what?"

Taking a deep breath, I grabbed her arms and kissed her. "That."

After a moment, she stepped back, and cleared her throat, clearly feeling uncomfortable. "Goodnight, Justin."

"Goodnight, Valentina."

I figured that she would actually enjoy it, but I will soon make her enjoy it.