Majestic

6.

"What you are afraid to do is a clear indication of the next thing you need to do."
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

The wind combed through my hair and I took a deep breath. We arrived at a small Italian bistro and the bike came to a quick stop. I pulled my helmet off and climbed off the bike.

"This is my favorite place, so be nice to me if you absolutely hate the food," I laughed and he put away our helmets.

"I can't make any promises. I'm brutally honest when it comes to food," I teased back and he wrapped his arms around my waist.

"I'm pretty sure you'll like the food," he stated with confidence and we walked into the restaurant, "I have a reservation for two. Josh Carter," he said to the host and I talk a moment to look around. The walls are a navy blue and pictures covered the walls. The aroma of garlic bread and tomato sauce clouded my senses and I smiled.

"It smells amazing in here," I said, following him over to the waiting area.

"It feels very homely. Their garlic bread is unforgettable," Josh said while leading back against the wall.

"Thank you for tonight," I said.

"Of course. I've never taken anyone here before."

"I find that hard to believe," I said trying to call his bluff.

"I'm serious. I come here normally alone or with my Mom," he answered back. The host returned and gave us a nod.

"Your table is ready," Josh grabbed my hand and we walked toward the back of the restaurant.

"Can I get you both started with something to drink? Our house wine is a crowd favorite," our waiter said while placing large menus in front of us.

"I'll have a glass of the house wine. Addy?"

"Same for me," I responded and the waiter left with a nod.

"Wow! This place has so many options," I stated while looking through all of the pasta dishes.

"We can always order a couple of dishes and share. I always come home with leftovers," Josh said and I placed my menu down on the table.

"Choose your top three favorite dishes. I'll eat whatever you pick," I closed my menu and he closed his.

"Okay."

The waiter returned with our wine and I reached for it quickly. I took a sip and felt the flavors explode in my mouth.

"This is so good. I'm normally not a wine drinker, but this may turn me into one!" I exclaimed before taking another drink.

"We are just getting started," Josh said before tapping his glass against mine. The waiter returned and Josh told him our order.

"Are you going to tell me what you ordered?" he shook his head, "What if I have a food allergy?" I stated.

"You have a fair point. Are you allergic to dairy?" I shook my head, "Shellfish?" I shook my head, "Then I see no issues," I smiled at him. We continued small talk until the food arrived.

"Carbonara, mushroom risotto, and a medium italian sausage and pepperoni pizza. Enjoy!" he left shortly after placing everything on the table.

"I love carbonara!" I said with excitement while placing some on my plate.

"Me too. Theirs is some of the best I've had," he filled his plate with some as well.

"I've actually never had mushroom risotto," I took a little bit and put it into my mouth, "I really need to try new foods more often," I said after the mushroom risotto melted over my taste buds. Josh and I continue to eat the pizza together and before I was ready to admit it, I was full.