Captivated

// part 3 \\

Never in my life could I remember having that much fun in an art museum. I came to realize very quickly that Tom had a huge appreciation and knowledge of history, and discussing the different pieces of art with him proved to be very thought-provoking and enjoyable. Besides that, his interpretation of the more modern pieces challenged my own thoughts on them, and we found ourselves writing down little notes on the pamphlets they handed us as we had walked in. We huddled close together, talking softly so we wouldn't disturb the other guests, and comparing our thoughts on each different piece. Every now and then Tom would catch me by surprise by throwing in a joke related to our current subject, and I would have to control my hysteric laughter. Other moments we would be silent, each absorbed in our own musings; but the silence was comfortable. Seriously, where had this man been all my life? This was my idea of the perfect first date, and he nailed it.

All too soon, our time in the Art Institute of Chicago came to a close, and we headed back out into the crisp air of the city. As I wrapped and arm around his, I marvelled at how familiar he was beginning to feel to me. First dates were normally so awkward, dipping your toes into new waters by getting to really know someone for the first time. But with Tom, I felt so at ease and happy; the way you would feel if you were in the presence of an old friend or someone you had been dating for a long time.

I stopped my thoughts there. This was only a first date, after all; no need to get ahead of myself. But our time in the museum had me thinking multiple times what it would be like to see him all the time... While walking from one room to the next, or from painting to painting, Tom had occasionally rested his hand on my lower back or brushed my fingers with his own. I began missing the feeling of his touch whenever he wasn't directly beside me. Having him near me had me feeling safe and secure, while also excited and happy. I guess you could say I was simply head over heels for this man. Which in itself was a stupid thought; it was only the first date. But I guess sometimes you just know.

I brushed aside these thoughts for the time being and focused on the person of interest. "So, where are we headed to next?"

"I know of this quaint little restaurant right down the street... Acanto, I think it's called. They have a great Italian menu, with a phenomenal wine selection." He paused, glancing my way. "That is, if you like wine."

I reassured him with a smile. "I love a good wine. I've actually been to the place before, and I loved it. It's been a while though, so I'm glad you chose there for dinner."

Tom looked relieved for a moment, and smiled. I found it incredibly cute that he still seemed a bit unsure about his location choices, even though I told him so often already how much I loved his idea of the museum. He really wanted to make a good impression, that much was sure, but he did that already the night we met. He was definitely humble, and I really appreciated that.

We stepped into the warmth of the Italian restaurant, and because it was a bit later in the evening it wasn't too busy. We were greeted warmly as we walked in and led to a cozy corner booth near the back of the dining room. Tom hung his jacket on a nearby coat-hook while I slid onto the cushioned bench, placing my clutch at the end of the table. My date settled on the seat across from me, making himself comfortable.

"I didn't realize till now how much we've been walking tonight," he stated. "It's nice to sit."

I laughed. "Yeah it is nice. But it'll be even nicer to eat. I didn't realize till now how hungry I was."

Tom shared my smile. "Well, you can get whatever you want. Nothing but the best for you, love." He winked.

"Stop it," I remarked, "or I just might have to keep you."

"Oh I'm counting on it," he flirted back, and I subtly bit my lower lip. God, this man was too much.

Just then we were brought menus, and I used this as an opportunity to brush off his last comment and focus on what I wanted for dinner. But when I snuck a glance at him from over my menu, he had an elbow resting on the table and his chin resting in his hand, a soft grin curving the edges of his lips ever so slightly. He was looking at me, his list of food choices remaining untouched.