When Hearts Heal

Chapter 23

"So I originally wanted to go into finance, investment and such but during my 2nd year at university I decided that business management and all that was more my passion. So I went on to get my masters, graduated in 2021 , bought my first building at the end of 2022 and then just continued franchising it. "

"Wow, that's...impressive." I noted while the waiter placed our food on the table. "So, how many buildings do you own? If that's not too personal."

"I own three so far. Two hotels and 1 apartment building for single parents and low income families with children. It's a passion project of mine. " He spoke with so much fondness as I could see his eyes light up with each word. "My idea is to open similar housing projects over the city to support single parents and low income families in the community to have a fair chance in life. I offer low rental rates, free childcare during the day and once a month we hold a donation drive for whatever they need. I really want it to grow into something bigger than myself. That's why I don't care about the profit , to me it's about the people."

I listened to him talk with such admiration and awe sounding like Oprah who just gave everything he had.

"I'm sorry, I'm talking too much." He apologised taking a bite from his food.

"Not at all, I enjoy hearing about you. And I'm very taken by your community incentive . I would love to be a part of it and offer up my time for free health care whenever possible. " I offered as I could tell it meant a lot to him.

"That would be amazing Adeline, thank you. But only if and when your schedule allowed it of course."

He was being so considering and thoughtful, not forcing me into anything or manipulating me into doing what he wanted me to do. It was refreshing. But I also learned that people don't tend to show their true colours on the first date, so I tried to not get ahead of myself and sum up his whole character in one night.

"I'll check my schedule and let you know when I have a free day next." I replied as he smiled in return.

The conversation seemed to flow the rest of the night, we never once had an awkward silience or a moment I thought, wow I'd much rather be home now. So much so, that I didn't even realise that we had become the last two people in the restaurant and all of the chairs had been stacked already.

Perks of owning the place I guess.

"It's getting late, I should probably start heading home." I stated sounding dissapointed that the night had to come to an end when I really didn't want it to.

"Right, of course. Let me walk you to your car." Dominic replied with a smile as he pulled out my chair and handed me my jacket. "I had a lot of fun tonight." He said making me smile and nervously fiddle with my necklace.

"Me too." I replied, taking my car keys from my bag.

"Would you like to do this again sometime? " he asked as I smiled embarrassed looking down at my feet. "I'm sorry that's probably too forward I know, but I don't like that whole wait 3 days to ask rule. Never have." He added with a nervous laugh.

It was almost cute to see him floundering like that.

Trying to help him out of his misery I said, "I would love that." Watching a smile of relief appear on his face.

"Wonderful. I'll call with the details?"

"It's a date." I replied getting into the car.

On my way home I couldn't help but smile as I recalled the night and how much joy it settled into my heart. I had a lot of fun. I felt so comfortable with him and conversation just seemed to flow effortlessly.

I tried to remind myself not to get too attached too quickly or to get ahead of myself. But as restrained as I tried to keep myself, I was a romantic at heart so I couldn't help it if my heart felt a smidge of excitement and hopefullness.

I was happy.

For the first time in a while, I was genuinly, completely, happy again.

And I deserved it.