ECHOES OF US | 18+ ✔️

CHAPTER 14

DANTÉ

Reading Mia's messages sent an exhilarating rush through me, making it impossible to stay in the hotel room any longer. Oddly, for the first time in my life, I feel pleased that I hadn't slept with someone. Yet, a nagging guilt lingers for being with Ava tonight instead of waiting for her to reach out.

As I descend in the elevator to the underground garage, I feel the urge to call her. But I hesitate due to the uncertainty of her living situation and instead, respond with a message.

Danté: "Hey Mia, no worries at all! It's great to hear from you and that you want to talk. Lunch on Sunday sounds perfect. What time and where would you like to meet?"

Shortly after I hit the send button, she promptly replies and an exuberant smile spreads across my face, my heart brimming with delight.

Mia: "Great! Would 1 PM at Maggie Dawson's place work for you?"

My brows furrow as I rub the back of my neck, trying to make sense of her message. Then it hits me—Maggie was the reason Mia attended Ray's funeral. His death, though heartbreaking, ultimately led to something positive. I answer back quickly, anxious that any delay might change her mind or give her the impression that I'm uninterested.

Danté: "1 PM is perfect. Looking forward to seeing you!"

Her reply comes just as quick as I send mine.

Mia: "Can't wait to see you too, Danté!"

It feels like I'm floating on air as I stroll to my car, each step infused with a dream-like weightlessness. It's a surreal moment, with everything I've ever yearned for unfolding before me. Even though I might be getting ahead of myself, Mia's decision to reach out hints at a hopeful outcome.

*

Getting ready for the lunch date has me feeling a whirlwind of emotions and curious about what the afternoon—especially the talk—may hold. There's a chance for something special. Butterflies flutter in my chest and my heart beats slightly faster than usual, nervousness simmering beneath my confident facade. With each passing minute, anticipation builds, leaving my mind literally all over the place, thinking about a million things.

Is there any hope for me with Mia?

Is her feelings towards me mutual?

Will she still want to be with me after what happened on Friday night?

What if she rejects me?

Oh, God, I can't handle this.

Gathering my scattered thoughts, I draw in shaky breaths, desperately hoping to calm my raging nerves.

Alright, let me just focus on right now.

With the goal of making a good impression, I carefully select my outfit, paying attention to every detail, from the color to the fabric texture. I decide to wear a slim fit button-down shirt in a soft blue, paired with a well-fitted dark denim jeans, dark blue casual blazer and stylish leather loafers.

After giving myself a quick once-over in the mirror and feeling satisfied with my appearance, I head out. Before heading to Maggie's place, I make a brief detour to the store, purchasing a pricey bottle of Pinot Noir. Next, I stop at the flower shop, picking up two stunning bouquets I had pre-ordered yesterday.

Although I initially wanted to indulge in an extravagant gift box filled with flowers, chocolates, and wine for Mia, I decided to choose something more memorable and meaningful instead of excessive. As a kind gesture to lift Maggie's spirit, I requested a colorful combination of seasonal flowers.