I woke up one Sunday morning, about a week after New Years. I didn't have classes today so I texted Artemi asking if he wanted to go to lunch today. He responded quickly, saying that he would love to.
I got dressed in a pair of jeans and a sweater, pairing it with my big coat and some boots. It was cold and rainy today but it felt comforting at the same time.
I drove to the Panera we agreed to meet at. I stepped inside to get out of the rain and looked around for Artemi. I didn't see him and I didn't want to order without him so I sat in a booth and messed around with my phone.
Not long after, someone approached my table. "Hello Claire," I recognized Artemi's voice.
I smiled and looked up at the Russian. "Hey, how are you?"
"Good, how are you?" He responded slowly.
"I'm great." We went up to the counter and looked at the menu.
He nudged my arm a bit. I glanced over at him. "You tell me the menu?" he asked shyly.
"Oh! Sure, yeah." I told him what kind of food they had and he decided what he was getting. We ordered our food together and I started to reach into my purse to get my wallet when Artemi's hand on my arm stopped me. He handed his card over to pay.
I playfully glared at him as we waited for our food. "You didn't have to pay for me," I said.
"I want to," he gave me a heart-stopping grin. Our names were called so we got our food and sat down.
As we ate, I asked him about hockey. "So you're on the Blackhawks?"
He nodded. "Yes. All guys are very nice and good players."
"Where in Russia are you from?" I asked curiously.
"Korkino," he answered. "I come to America this year."
I took a bite of my salad, processing what he just said. "What's Russia like?" I wondered.
Artemi began to explain things about his hometown. I admired him as he spoke. His eyes sparkled and he looked so happy when he talked about Russia.
"This food very good," he stated, snapping me out of my small daydream.
"Yeah, it's delicious." Wow Claire, great response.
He took another bite of his panini. "Not bad thing to be named after, huh?"
"Not bad at all. Is it hard to learn English?" I asked.
Artemi shrugged. "A little. If I don't talk much I don't have to learn," he said cheekily.
I laughed a little. I enjoyed talking with him. We kept the conversation going for about another hour until he checked the time. "I need to leave. I have game tonight and I need to take nap."
"Oh, okay." I couldn't help but feel disappointed. I loved talking with Artemi.
We walked outside. "Do you have plans tonight?"
"I have a date," I watched his face fall slightly. "With Netflix," I finished.
He rolled his eyes and shoved my shoulder lightly. "You are mean."
"Sorry," I giggled.
"Well I was going to ask if you want to go to my game tonight but now I think no," he bantered right back.
I perked up immediately. "No, I want to go! Please?"
Artemi tried to keep a straight face and act nonchalant but failed. "Okay. I will leave two tickets at will call."
"Yay!" I cheered. "I should let you go. Good luck tonight, score a goal for me."
"Will do." He leaned down and kissed my cheek. "See you."
"Bye," I replied, still grinning.
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sorry for not updating in like two weeks omg ive been writing this chapter little by little but i finally had more time today so i could finish it
how bout those PENGUINS THO YASSS EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS!!!
