Unexpected Love

Chapter 10

Meredith had just finished getting ready, smoothing down her dress and double-checking her reflection in the mirror, when there was a knock at her door. Taking a steadying breath, she opened it to find Derek standing there, looking as polished as ever in a dark jacket and a warm smile. In his hand, he held a bouquet of lilies, their soft white petals contrasting beautifully against the green stems.

"For you," he said, holding them out with a smile. "I thought lilies seemed fitting."

Meredith's eyes softened as she took the flowers. "They're perfect, Derek. Thank you." She leaned in, her cheeks warming as she kissed him on the cheek. "Let me just put these in water, and we can go."

A few minutes later, they were on their way to Gramercy Tavern, the car filled with easy conversation and occasional laughter. Derek's eyes rarely left her, and Meredith found herself smiling back, feeling a lightness she hadn't felt in a long time.

When they arrived at the restaurant, the warm, inviting atmosphere enveloped them. Candlelight flickered across the tables, and soft jazz played in the background, adding a cozy charm to the ambiance. They were led to a quiet corner booth, and as they settled in, the waiter arrived with a knowing smile.

The waiter's gaze lingered on Meredith just a little too long, his compliments dripping with a little too much charm. "Anything for you tonight, Miss Grey?" he asked with a smile that seemed just a little too personal.

Derek's smile grew tight as he watched, but before he could say anything, Meredith reached across the table, gently wrapping her hand around his. She squeezed his hand reassuringly, looking up at him with a smile that spoke volumes. "I think we'll just start with the chef's special tonight," she said smoothly, her gaze never leaving Derek's.

Derek relaxed, his expression softening as he looked back at her, grateful for the small, comforting gesture. As the waiter walked away, Meredith tilted her head playfully. "Jealous, Dr. Shepherd?"

"Maybe a little," Derek admitted, chuckling. "But I have to admit, I like the reminder that you're here with me."

The rest of dinner passed in easy conversation, the two of them sharing stories, laughter, and more than a few glances that lingered just a little longer than usual. They talked about life in New York, funny hospital stories, and moments from their past that they hadn't shared before. With each moment, the connection between them felt deeper, their shared history and new memories creating an effortless closeness.

After dinner, Derek surprised her by suggesting they head to the Manhattan ferry. "Trust me," he said with a grin, "it's one of the best ways to see the city."

They boarded the ferry and stood at the railing, side by side, the cold breeze sweeping across the water. Derek pulled out two ice cream cones he'd picked up from a nearby cart, handing one to her. She laughed, taking a bite as they gazed out at the city lights reflecting on the water.

"This is... perfect," Meredith murmured, leaning against his shoulder. The quiet lapping of the waves and the twinkling skyline in the distance gave the moment a surreal, dream-like quality.

Derek glanced down at her, a softness in his eyes. "It really is," he said quietly, his arm wrapping around her shoulders as he pulled her a little closer.

They rode the ferry until the cold became too much to bear, and then Derek walked her back to her apartment. As they reached her door, she unlocked it and turned to him, unsure of how to say goodnight, her heart still racing from the evening.

"Thank you, Derek," she said softly. "This was... everything."

Instead of responding with words, he leaned in, brushing his lips against hers in a gentle kiss, and she felt herself melt into him, the warmth of the moment replacing the chill of the night air.

As they pulled back, she looked into his eyes, her voice barely a whisper. "Stay?"

Derek nodded, a soft smile spreading across his face. "I'd like that."

They went inside, and the city outside faded away as they let themselves fall into the warmth of each other's company. Wrapped in the comfort of their newfound closeness, Meredith knew this night would be one she'd never forget.