The First Catch

Chapter 7: The Not So Blind Date

Since Victoria couldn't change Melanie's mind.  She went with the girl's spa day.  Which Melanie agreed to a lot quicker than the blind date.  After the spa, they'd chosen some place for dining. That is where Victoria would take her leave.  She knew Melanie would hate her..  But this was the only way.  And hoped it'd be worth it in the end.  Victoria had an out, that would pull her away. Then Anthony would take her place instead.

"Do you have anything planned yet for the evening?"  Levi asked.  He and Anthony almost clashed into each other, while turning down the hallway.  Levi told him where Victoria would have Melanie waiting.  It was a little white lie.  But he knew Anthony wouldn't agree.  If he found out Melanie didn't know.  "I have a few ideas.."  "And what kind of ideas did you have in mind?" Anthony rolled his eyes.  "Here I thought girls were the ones who were nosey."  Anthony said. "I'm only curious."  Levi shrugged.  "Melanie can be picky.."  "I don't know..  What does she like?" Anthony asked.  He felt more nervous hearing Levi's response.  It still didn't register to Anthony, the name Levi spilled out.  "I know she loves dancing..  Or well, used to.."  Used to?  Anthony found himself wondering what the reason was why she didn't dance anymore.  Though Melanie interested him first.  He couldn't help but also feel intrigued by the gal Levi and Victoria set up for him.  "She loves being outdoors.  You could go walking along some paths.."  Anthony nodded, taking mental notes.  "Those are some possibilities..  Thank you for the help."

"You're welcome...  You know me, always willing to help a friend."  Levi teased, giving him a wink.  Anthony laughed.  "Oh believe me.  I am well aware...  Why do you and Vic feel the need to have me meet her now?  And not before?"  Anthony asked out of curiosity.  For a split second, he wondered how long they had this friend.  He'd been friends with them for a while.  And never heard them mention her before.  "Like I said.  It's been awhile since she's gotten out.  She's gone through some hard times these past few months.  Victoria and I are both getting busy.  So it would be nice for her to have someone around, when we can't be."  Anthony noticed Levi ignored his other question.  And was about to address so, when they heard the cackling of the radio.  "Looks like we better get going.."

Once Anthony finished work, he glanced at the clock.  It was five, and their dinner was at seven. Not sure why, Anthony felt an uneasiness settle in him.  Nervousness?  That couldn't be.  How could he feel nervous about meeting a complete stranger?  Anthony figured it was more of the gist of the whole blind date thing in general.  And the nerves had nothing to do with the person. Levi was right.  It's been awhile since Anthony went out on a date.  Or anywhere in general. "Here goes nothing."  He muttered to himself.  Most of the day drifted by..  And now it was down to an hour.  Anthony headed into his room, opening the closet.  Then scrounged through for something to wear.  He found a black suit and tie.  Then stood in the mirror.  Checking himself once more before leaving.

Melanie and Victoria finished their day at the spa.  Getting manicures, pedicures and massages. Victoria grew more anxious the closer it came to the time when she'd ditch Melanie.  The plans were set, but she wasn't very hopeful.  Something could still go amiss.  So far, Melanie gave no implication that she knew what was going on.  This could still change.  Victoria wasn't the best liar.  So all she could hope was that Melanie believed her excuse.

Victoria swept a sideways glance in Mel's direction.  "We need to stop at the house and get dressed up first."  Melanie looked at Victoria, narrowing her eyes.  "Aren't we going to that small cafe?" She asked.  Finding it odd Victoria wanted to put on nice clothes.  It wasn't like there was any special occasion.  "We are going to the Amerigo Italian Restaurant.  I've got us a reservation." "But isn't that sort of an extravagant place?  People would think we are on a date."  Victoria smirked at Melanie's reaction.  "Relax Mel..  There's nothing wrong with two people who want a good meal.  People do it all the time. Besides, even if we were, it wouldn't be anyone else's business.  Plus, I have a ring on my finger.  They won't think that..."

Once Victoria arrived at the restaurant, the girls made their way inside.  Melanie glanced around. Still seeming unsure about this.  It looked too nice.  Too nice of a place for casual dining.  As they made their way inside.  Victoria noticed Anthony wasn't there yet.  The clock showed they were a few minutes early.

"Thank you for the day by the way.  You..  Were right, I needed to get out."  Melanie admitted. Victoria's face lit up, and a smile crossed her lips.  "See?  I told you it wouldn't be all that bad." Melanie hid a smirk, hearing the words she knew were coming.  "You should listen more often." Melanie rolled her eyes in a playful manner.  "I knew you were going to say that."  Victoria let out a small chuckle.  Hearing a hint of teasing in Melanie's voice.

The hostess led them to the table.  Seating both girls.  Once they got settled and began chatting. Victoria lost track of time.  Not realizing Anthony was a little late.  Both women were enjoying the evening out..  Victoria almost forgot to keep on the lookout for Anthony.  Until a waiter came to inform her of a phone call.  "Oh..  Crap!"  Melanie raised an eye as Victoria practically jumped out of her seat.  Hearing the waiter call her name.  She'd been enjoying the time, she almost wished she could stay.  It'd been so long.  Victoria couldn't recall the last time Melanie had a good day like this.