The Run-In

Fine-Dining

After my walk with Jimin I drove back home and fell asleep. Now it's Saturday, the best day of the week. No school and no stress. There's also no work for me today; the roads are too icy and dangerous for anyone to be driving on, so Sasha said the café will be closed for the remainder of the weekend. That's perfectly fine with me!

I just lie in bed the entire morning. The wooden floorboards are freezing, and I don't want to step on them when I can just stay snuggled up in my warm sheets.

I scroll through my Instagram feed in a lazy speed. Everyone is posting pictures of their Christmas trees and decorations. I'm not really getting in the holiday spirit this year. Decorating is too expensive and time-consuming for someone who's trying to save money and is constantly busy.

"Ring! Ring!"

The sudden noise startles me, causing me to jump upright. I glance at the caller ID; Park Jimin.

I wonder what he needs?

I press the green button on my phone screen and put it up to my ear.

"Hello?"

"Hey Serris! How are you?" chirps Jimin.

"Tired." I croak, rubbing my sleep-crusted eyes with my shirt sleeve. "What about you?"

"I'm kind of tired too." I don't believe it for a second. "I was wondering if you were doing anything this afternoon?"

"Oh." I stutter, surprised by the request. "No, I'm not. Why?"

"Maybe you and I could go out to dinner somewhere. Nothing formal, just a tasty meal at an Italian restaurant."

"Um..." Should I say yes? It's not a date, but it is somewhat of a date.

"...And?" he asks, the pitch of his voice rising up hopefully.

"Sure, Jimin. I'd love to have dinner with you."

"Fantastic." he breathes excitedly through the speaker. "I know of a nice place we can go; I'll text you the address. Around what time should I pick you up?"

I check the time on my phone. "Six would be good. See you soon."

"Bye." The phone beeps and we hang up. Seconds later I receive a text from him. I open up the message and click on the link to the restaurant's address. I nearly gasp at the Google Maps image that greet me.

'Nothing formal'?! The plants in this place cost more than my rent!

The picture of Bottega showcases swirling ceilings of glowing amber and dimly lit crystal chandeliers practically dripping with jewels. Ornately carved booths curve around the glossy tables and smoothly lacquered floor. Another picture shows a magnificent stone fountain in the center of a wild botanical garden. Vines and leaves wind around all of the pillars supporting the mezzanine that encircles the entire garden.

Jimin, I can't afford to eat there, I immediately text. It's much too expensive for me.

Don't worry about the price, he replies quickly.  I'm paying for both of our meals and the tip, and you're not allowed to feel guilty.