Healing Hearts

Chapter 8: A Date with Tension

Emma paced nervously around her apartment, glancing at the clock for what felt like the hundredth time that evening. She couldn't remember the last time she'd felt this anxious about a date. Actually, she couldn't remember the last time she'd been on a real date at all.

It didn't help that this wasn't just any date. This was with Liam Montgomery, the man who had the power to unravel her perfectly organized life with just a look. The thought of spending a few hours alone with him outside of the hospital made her stomach twist in knots.

She had settled on a simple, elegant black dress, something that wasn't too formal but still made her feel confident. Her hair was pulled back into a loose bun, a few strands framing her face, and she had applied just enough makeup to look polished without trying too hard.

As the doorbell rang, Emma took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She opened the door to find Liam standing there, looking effortlessly handsome in a tailored suit, his eyes lighting up when he saw her.

"You look beautiful," he said, his voice warm and genuine.

Emma blushed, cursing herself for feeling like a schoolgirl with a crush. "Thanks. You're not so bad yourself."

Liam grinned, offering her his arm. "Shall we?"

Emma nodded, locking the door behind her as they headed down to the car. She still couldn't quite believe she was doing this—going on a date with a billionaire. It felt surreal, like she was stepping into someone else's life for the night.

The restaurant Liam had chosen was intimate and upscale, with soft lighting and a quiet buzz of conversation. As they were seated at a cozy corner table, Emma couldn't help but notice the heads turning as they walked in. She felt a little out of place among the well-dressed patrons, but Liam seemed completely at ease.

"Are you nervous?" Liam asked, leaning in slightly as they scanned the menu.

Emma glanced up, startled by the question. "A little, I guess."

Liam smiled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "You don't have to be. It's just dinner."

"Just dinner," Emma repeated, laughing softly. "Right. Just dinner with a billionaire."

Liam chuckled, shaking his head. "I'm still just a guy, Emma. Don't let the money scare you."

"It's not that," she said quickly, though it was partly true. "It's more... everything else. You're so sure of yourself, and I'm, well—" she trailed off, not wanting to reveal too much.

"You're what?" Liam pressed gently.

"I'm just not used to this," Emma admitted. "Being in the spotlight. People noticing. This isn't my world."

Liam's expression softened. "I get that. But tonight, it's just you and me. Forget everything else."

Emma smiled at his words, feeling the tension in her shoulders start to ease. Liam had a way of making her feel comfortable, even in situations that normally would have sent her running for the hills.

As the evening went on, Emma found herself relaxing more and more. The conversation flowed easily between them, with Liam asking her about her work, her childhood, her travels—anything and everything. He seemed genuinely interested in her life, which surprised her. Most people only asked about her job out of politeness, but Liam listened like he truly cared.

At one point, Liam leaned back in his chair, his eyes glinting with mischief. "You know, I didn't expect you to say yes to this."

Emma raised an eyebrow. "Why not?"