Is It Really Love?

ADRIAN

It's the 20th of December today. I have known Philippa Jones for a hundred and thirty six days now. I met her on the sixth of August. How do I know that? Well, I've been counting and I made a note of it in my notes app (yes, guys do that too). And now, I use the same digits to open the lock on my phone.

Eleven days to the new year. And the only person I could imagine starting it with is currently asleep. And I have been thinking about her. Or rather, planning something for her.

"Hey, what's up?" Philippa asked on the call.

"Hey, I was wondering if you were free tomorrow?" I hoped the nervousness in my guts didn't come out in my voice.

"Yeah, of course. My winter vacation is going on. Duh." Came her reply.

"Oh yes. So, I um wanted to ask you something." I said.

"Okay, go ahead. Is everything okay?" She was concerned about me.

"Yes, yes. Philippa Jones, will you go out on a date with me?" I blurted the words and waited for her reply. It took her five breaths to answer.

"Are you being serious?"

"Yes! I would never ask you something like that so casually." I replied.

"Well then, Adrian Stone. Yes, I would love to go on a date with you."

Her words made my heart go still. I forced myself to take a breath. And another. Until I felt like her words and voice were all that filled my lungs. I smiled. Even though she couldn't see it, I smiled like the happiest man on earth. Like I was the moon and she was my sun, lighting me up with her sunshine.

"Hello? You're still there?" Asked her tense voice.

"I'm here. I'll pick you up at 7 p.m. then. Wear a pretty dress." I told her.

"Okay, are we going old - school?" I could hear the excitement in her voice. I knew the reason. My Philippa was crazy for old - school romance. Movies, bouquets, dinner, the whole deal.

"Why don't I let you find out tomorrow?"

"Ugh okay. Is there anything else you wanna add?" Yes. I like you, you dummy. I really really like you.

"Nope. Bye, then. See you tomorrow." I said and ended the call.

I had thought too much about this. And I couldn't think of a better way to start something real with her than this.