The Farmhand's Crush

Chapter: 11

The following weekend, excitement buzzed in the air as I prepared for a night out at the local diner where Nic worked sometimes when it was busy or low staff. The diner was hosting a live music event tonight, and I couldn't wait to see him in his element, surrounded by friends, laughter, and good food.

As I arrived, the neon sign flickered invitingly, casting a warm glow over the bustling scene. The sounds of laughter and music spilled out onto the street, filling me with anticipation. I spotted Nic behind the counter, wearing a black apron and a smile that lit up his face.

"City!" he called out, waving as I approached him with a smile gracefully on his face. "Glad you could make it, You're just in time for the music, I hope you dont dislike the classics they play."

"Wouldn't want to miss it, I like seeing you in an apron"I replied, my heart racing as he leaned over the counter to give me a quick kiss on the cheek. It felt sweet and electric, a reminder of our budding connection.

The diner was packed, but I managed to find a small table near the stage. As I settled in, I ordered a drink, a local craft beer, eager to enjoy the lively atmosphere. The band kicked off their set, playing a mix of upbeat tunes and soulful ballads, and I couldn't help but tap my feet along to the rhythm of the songs they played.

With each sip of my beer, my nerves faded, replaced by a sense of freedom and joy. I waved to Nic every chance I got, catching glimpses of him darting back and forth, serving customers with ease and charm.

As the night wore on, I indulged in a few more drinks, the world around me becoming a kaleidoscope of laughter and music. I was in high spirits, laughing with the locals and swaying to the music, feeling more alive than had since my parents passed.

At some time in the night, Nic came over to check on me, a playful glint in his eyes. "Having fun?" he asked, leaning against the table brushing the hair out of my face.

"Too much fun" I giggled, raising my glass. "You should join me"

"Just a little longer. I have to finish my shift," he replied, but the warmth in his smile was inviting. "Save me a dance?"

"Absolutely" I said, my heart racing a million miles at the thought.

After a few more songs, I felt a buzz of excitement ripple through me. When Nic finally clocked out, he slid into the seat across from me, he looked just as happy as I felt.

"Ready to dance? Or are you gonna fall?" he asked, his eyes sparkling.

"Yes" I exclaimed, grabbing his hand and leading him to the small dance floor. We moved together, the music flowing through us as we swayed and twirled under the dim lights. It felt magical, the connection us them electric as we laughed and danced.

But as the night progressed, my head began to spin a little more than I had expected. The laughter, the music, and the drinks all combined to create a haze of happiness that felt both exhilarating and overwhelming.

Eventually, as the last song played, I leaned against Nic, feeling slightly unsteady. "I think I might have had one too many," I admitted, my cheeks flushed a deep shade of red.

"Let's get you home," Nic said gently, wrapping an arm around my waist for support. His touch was warm and reassuring, and I leaned into him as we made our way out of the diner.

The fresh night air hit me like a wave as we stepped outside. "I'm sorry if I embarrassed myself," I said, giggling a little, my words slightly slurred.

"Hey, no apologies necessary," Nic replied with a chuckle. "You were just having a good time. It's nice to see you relax and I enjoyed dancing with you but I think you may have stepped on my feet a couple times."

As we walked, I felt the warmth of Nic's arm around me, grounding me amid the swirling sensations. "I'm glad you're here," I said softly looking at him smiling.

When we reached my cottage, I fumbled with my keys, finally managing to unlock the door after dropping them twice. Once inside, I flopped down onto the couch, a wave of dizziness washing over me. "I might need a minute," I said, laughing at myself.

Nic sat down beside me, concern etched on his face. "You sure you're okay?"

"Just a little tipsy, that's all," I assured him, though my stomach churned slightly. "But I'm so happy you came."

We talked for a while, Nic keeping the conversation light and easy as I leaned against him, reveling in the comfort of his presence. However, as the minutes passed, I could feel my body starting to protest.

"I think I need to—" I began, but before I could finish my sentence, I bolted up and hurried to the bathroom.

"Faye?" Nic called after me getting up and rushing after me, a hint of worry in his voice.

I had barely made it to the toilet before everything I had consumed came rushing up. The sounds of my retching filled the small bathroom, and I felt both embarrassed and miserable.

After what felt like an eternity, I finally sank to the floor, my body shaking as I tried to catch her breath. I heard the door creak open, and moments later, Nic knelt beside me, concern etched on his features.

"Hey, you okay?" he asked softly, brushing my hair back from my face.

"I'm so sorry," I groaned, leaning against the cool tile cooling my skin. "I really thought I could handle it."

"Don't worry about it. It happens to the best of us," he said, his voice soothing. He handed me a glass of water, and I gratefully took a sip letting the cool water soothe my throat.

Once I felt a little steadier, Nic helped me to my feet and guided me back to the living room. He settled me on the couch, grabbing a blanket and wrapping it around my shoulders.

"Just rest. I'll stay with you," he said, his tone gentle and reassuring. I felt a warmth bloom in my chest at his kindness.

As I lay back against the cushions, the world slowly started to feel a little less chaotic. Nic sat beside me, his presence a calming anchor as I tried to relax.

"Thank you for being here," I murmured, my eyes growing heavy by the minute. "I don't know what I would do without you."

"Just getting you home safe is enough for me," he replied, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips.

Eventually, as the night wore on, I fell into a restless sleep, comforted by the sound of Nic's quiet voice and the warmth of his presence. I didn't know how long he stayed, but I felt grateful for him. His patience, his kindness, and the way he made me feel cared for, even in my most vulnerable moments.

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the windows, and I woke with a throbbing headache. As I opened my eyes, the memories of the previous night flooded back, and I groaned, burying my face in a pillow.

"Faye?" Nic's voice called softly from the kitchen. "How are you feeling?"

I groaned again, my stomach churning at the sound of his voice. "Like I got hit by a truck," I replied, attempting to sit up. "What time is it?"

"Just after nine. I made some coffee and toast," he said, sounding cheerful despite the chaos of the previous night that he had to sit through.

I pushed myself up, the room spinning slightly as I took a deep breath. "You didn't have to stay," I said, a mix of gratitude and embarrassment flooding me, as I remember the night before.

"I wanted to make sure you were okay," he said, appearing in the doorway with a plate in hand. "Plus, I wasn't going to leave you alone after that."

"Thanks, Nic. You're too good to me," I said, my heart swelling with appreciation.

He handed me the plate, and I took a small bite of the toast, my stomach protesting slightly but still accepting the food. As I chewed, a comfortable silence settled between us, a bond growing stronger even amid my morning-after shame.

"Promise me next time we celebrate, you'll pace yourself?" Nic teased, a playful glint in his eyes.

"I promise," I said, laughing softly. "No more than two drinks!"

As we shared breakfast, I felt grateful for the kindness that had blossomed between us. Even through the chaos, I knew that this was just another chapter in our story.