TO HAVE & HAVE NOT

60

Johnny

I was on a high stronger than any drug could ever provide me, a sensation that filled me with warmth and exhilaration as I felt the vibrant energy of the moment pulse around us. I held Olivia's hand tightly in mine, our fingers intertwined, as we walked into the restaurant, already buzzing with the lively chatter of diners and the clinking of silverware. The atmosphere was electric, and I could feel my heart racing with excitement. Jack and Lily walked ahead of us, their animated conversation echoing in the air as they greeted Vanessa and Samuel, who were waiting for us at a cozy corner table.

Once Jack and Lily had settled into their seats, I couldn't resist the urge to show my affection for Vanessa and Samuel. I walked over and embraced Vanessa and Samuel warmly. I joyfully introduced Olivia to them, eager for her to connect with the people most important to me.

"Bonjour!" Vanessa exclaimed, her face lighting up with a radiant smile as she hugged Olivia as if they were old friends reunited after years apart.

"Nice to meet you, Olivia," Samuel added, extending a hand for Olivia to shake, his demeanor friendly and relaxed, making her feel instantly at ease.

With introductions completed, Olivia and I found our way to the table, taking our seats side by side. The intimacy of our proximity sent a delightful shiver down my spine; her exposed thigh was pressed right next to mine, and I instinctively placed my hand on her thigh, gripping it softly but possessively. I could feel the warmth radiating from her skin, and a surge of affection coursed through me.

As we settled into conversation, the kids began recounting tales of our adventures in LA, sharing stories filled with joy and laughter that brought smiles to everyone's faces. Olivia gushed about the adventures we embarked on, her eyes sparkling as she recounted how much fun she had, but also highlighting that it had now come to an end. She expressed her sadness over it, sharing with Vanessa how much she adored the kids and praising them for their incredible spirits.
The conversation shifted as Olivia and Vanessa dove into a spirited discussion about fashion, exchanging ideas and experiences, their mutual enthusiasm evident. It was then that Lily chimed in, a glimmer of excitement in her eyes, asking Vanessa if they could meet up with Olivia and me for the upcoming New York City fashion week. Without hesitation, Vanessa eagerly agreed, her eyes sparkling with plans waiting to be made.

Meanwhile, Samuel took the opportunity to compliment Olivia and me on our recent movie, a heartfelt endorsement that filled me with pride. Time seemed to fly as we shared laughs and stories; before long, our lunch came to a close. As we wrapped up, I exchanged heartfelt goodbyes with everyone, feeling a mix of gratitude and contentment.

While Olivia was busy saying her goodbyes to Jack and Lily, I turned my attention back to Vanessa for one last moment.

"Christ, Johnny, she's incredible!" Vanessa exclaimed, her enthusiasm shining through as she gripped my shoulders, her excitement infectious.

I couldn't help but smile as I watched Olivia envelop Jack and Lily in tight, affectionate hugs, the sincerity of the moment washing over me. "Yeah, she is, isn't she?" I replied, my heart swelling with pride for the remarkable woman by my side. This day, this moment, felt like the beginning of something extraordinary, and I couldn't wait to see where it would lead us.

As we made our way back home, Olivia and I sat closely together in the car, our fingers intertwined as if we were two pieces of a perfectly fitted puzzle. I could feel her soft, reassuring weight against my shoulder as her head rested there, and it filled me with an overwhelming sense of comfort and joy. "It's so sad they're gone," she sighed, her voice tinged with a hint of melancholy.

I could appreciate her sadness; it was a reflective moment amidst our otherwise blissful evening. I gripped her hand tightly, wanting her to feel how grateful I was for her presence during this emotional time. "I always hate this part," I admitted, thinking of the unfortunate goodbyes we'd just said to Lily and Jack. "But I'm glad I've got you with me, so I'm not near as sad and lonely."

Her soft sigh seemed to lighten the mood as she lifted her head and turned to face me, an enchanting smile lighting up her features. In an instant, she pulled my face closer to hers, and with a gentle movement, kissed me tenderly. It was the type of kiss that seemed to melt away any lingering sadness, a reminder of the beautiful connection we shared.

"You know what I've realized?" I asked, breaking the sweet silence that lingered between us.

"What?" she replied with genuine curiosity, her eyes sparkling in the fading light.

"I haven't taken you on a date, just you and I, since we labeled this relationship," I said, my cheeks slightly flushing as I admitted it. "Since you became my girl." A playful smirk crept onto my face as I watched her reaction.

Her smile widened, and her eyes danced with happiness as she kissed me again, savoring the moment. "I love when you say that," she whispered, her breath warm against my lips.

"What?" I asked, pretending to be oblivious, though my heart raced with the realization of how much I cherished our little exchanges. "My girl?"

"Yeah, that," she replied, leaning in to plant yet another sweet kiss on my lips, each one making me feel more and more elated.

"Is that a yes to the date then?" I questioned, my voice playful yet hopeful, eager to solidify the plans.

"Yes," she giggled, her laughter like music to my ears. "I would love to go on a date with you."

As the car glided through the familiar streets toward my home, the world outside faded away. All that mattered was her, the budding date we had just decided on, and the promise of more moments like this—moments filled with laughter, intimacy, and the sweetness of our love that felt destined to keep blossoming.