Full Moon Under You

Chapter 20

I walked up to Derek's door and paused.

My palms were sweaty and my heart was ponding.

Why was I so nervous? It's not like I haven't been to Derek's apartment before.

But, he's never offered to make me dinner.

And I have no idea if this is a date or not.

Once I gave myself a pep talk, I opened the door and walked in.

This was definitely a date.

He had set up a table with candles everywhere. There were flowers sitting in the middle of the table and two bottles of champagne next to it. I looked up to the kitchen and saw Derek busy making... whatever he was making.

I don't think he noticed me come in because he was so focused on cooking.

He looked really good right now.

He was wearing a black sweater paired with black jeans and brown dress shoes. He must've just showered and cleaned up his beard. His cologne was intoxicating. 

Thank god I looked somewhat decent.

I walked over to him and wrapped my arms around his waist from behind him and laid my head on the back of his shoulder.

He turned around and greeted me, "Hey, I didn't even hear you come in." He smiled and pulled me in for a hug, then kissed the top of my head.

"What are you making? It smells great." I said as I pulled away.

"It's a surprise. Here," he grabbed the flowers, "these are for you and I'll pour you a glass of champagne."

I almost felt like I was in a dream. Everyone told me these stories about Derek; how he was scary, how he was a massive douche. Which is funny, because I don't see a trace of that in him right now.

He came back and handed me a glass. He extended his and clinked it against mine.

"What was that for?" I asked.

"For making it through this and starting fresh."

I think if I smiled any bigger, my face would fall off. Everything just felt perfect in this moment.

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When Derek put the food on the table, I couldn't help but laugh.

"You made a pizza, are you serious?"

"Don't laugh at me, this took me hours to make. I don't cook like you do." he said as he pushed my arm.

I took a bite and Derek watching so intently trying to see what my reaction would be. I noticed and pretended to really be thinking about my answer.

"Come on, tell me what you think." he demanded.

"Derek, I'm not going to lie, this is pretty good."

He got up and started jumping up and down like an idiot. 

I think Emily was right. I think I'm in love with him.

We finished eating and just talked for a while drinking champagne.

"How have you been feeling?" he asked.

"Better. I just needed to think about everything and understand it. I think I found the answer I was looking for."

"Which would be...?"

"I would rather I suffer for a period of time, than have 100 more people suffer. It's not going to be an easy process, but I know it will make things better in the end."