Shape of my heart

4

Soft jazz plays through the speakers, relaxing Nicole's excitement. Every so often she glances at Brian as he drives. His eyes meet hers for a second then back to the road.

"What?"

"Nothing. Just looking."

He smiles. "That's not fair. I want to look at you too."

She giggles. "Well you're gonna have to wait. Not while you're driving."

"Yes ma'am."

She smiles and looks out to the road.

"Where are we going?"

"It's a surprise."

Ten minutes later they get to the restaurant. Brian opens the door for her and takes her hand. He guides her to the entrance, stopping at the hostess stand.

"Good evening Mr. Littrell and Ms. Pierce. We have been expecting you." The hostess grabs two menus and leads them to a table in the back for privacy.

They sit down and order a bottle of wine.

"How did you know I love this place?"

"I have my sources." He takes his jacket off and places it on the back of the car.

She smiles and looks at the menu. She looks up and catches him looking at her intensely.

"What?"

"Nothing. Just looking." He smirks, locking eyes with her. The lighting causes his eyes to glimmer.

She smiles then slightly bites her lip, focusing on the menu again.

The waiter comes back with the wine and takes their order before leaving.

Nicole takes a sip from her glass.
"So what made you want to do this?"

Brian sits up in his chair.

"Well besides it being your birthday, I thought you deserve to be shown some appreciation."

"Appreciation? Go on."

He chuckles. "You do so much for all of us and I don't think anyone has really taken the time to show that love back."

She takes another sip. Eyes not leaving his blue ones.

"Also I wanted to show how thankful I am for you. For all that you have done for me."

She smiles at him.

"Why does it feel like there's more to it?"

He drinks from his glass and smiles.
"I have no idea what you're talking about."

She narrows her eyes. "Are you sure about that?"

He chuckles deeply.

"Yes I'm sure Nicole."

They continue talking until their food arrives. When Nicole digs her fork into her pasta, Brian clears his throat. Making her look up at him.

"Actually, there is something I need to confess."

"What is it?"

"The real reason why I invited you out tonight."

He moves their plates out of the way and grabs her hand. He clears his throat and looks deep into her eyes. He begins to sing to her How did I fall in love with you. Her favorite song. As he progresses, his emotion rises. He sings loud enough for people to hear him. Everyone stops and listens; not knowing where it's coming from. He stands and walks towards her while still holding her hand. He pulls her up from her seat and holds her. When he finishes, everyone starts clapping. Once they quiet down, he holds her hand again.