Gabriel

Thirty

Loving was beautiful.

Irreplaceable, even.

There was something warm and purifying about it.

Love drove you to do and be better.

It was wholesome.

So wholesome.

Rich.

Delightful.

Precious.

Strange.

Fluffy.

Flushing.

And it left you waiting for the next moment with your beloved.

Ugh, it was somehow everything.

But the most beautiful thing about loving was that it reflected the heart of God if done right.

Gabriel had done right.

Gabriel was doing it right.

From the start, he'd done it right.

It was only getting better.

"I won't ask you to close your eyes," Gabriel sounded as he parked. "I will ask you to open your heart,"

He got out of the truck and opened her door, chuckling. "That was cheesy,"

She couldn't help but laugh. "Only a little, it was sweeter than cheesy,"

He held her hand. "I'm only cheesy for you, sweetheart," He grinned, kissing her hand. "I love you,"

"Oh my," She whispered nearly melting. "I'm still not used to that," Her cheeks were warmer than an oven.

The restaurant doors opened and they were greeted by a friendly smile.

"Ah, Mr. Nichea. We've been anticipating your arrival,"

The man's eyes sparkled as he took in Jaleesa. "Now I understand your precise ask," He smiled kindly at Gabriel. "Ms. Destiny, I pray you're delighted by this evening."

Gabriel kissed her cheek proudly. "I appreciate your willingness to accommodate us, William." He shook William's hand.

"Of course, of course," William motioned to the dining room. "I believe they're playing your song now," He smiled mischievously and led the way.

"Gabriel," Jaleesa whispered, tugging his hand.

"Hmm?"

"What did you do?"

He shrugged passively, securing his hand on her back. "Exactly what a man in love ought to,"

"Bu-"

"Shh, just do as William said and be delighted. And keep your heart open," He pecked her parted lips and continued behind William.

"Mr. Nichea, Ms. Destiny, enjoy your evening," William nodded at the pair and stepped aside.

A beautiful melody filled the dining room, roses and lilies decorated the room, and in the center was set a table for two.

"Gabriel,"

She turned and kissed him. "Thank you, darling," Her heart was overjoyed. "Thank you,"

Darling.

Jaleesa called him darling.

He was blushing.

"Anything to make you happy," He kissed her cheek and led her to the table, his cheeks still ablaze from the heart-piercing endearment.