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Chapter LXVIII (68) (Part I)

February 14th is a special day that I never look forward to because I never had the chance to share it with someone, but this year, I do. Valentine's Day is here, and Liam is planning something special. I can't wait for it. I remember when I was young, I use to watch Beauty and the Beast and wish that I could dance with my prince just like how Belle and the Beast did it.

I finish curling my hair and stood up to my mirror. I observe myself in my navy dress and flatten my dress a little and feel satisfied with my look.

Ring!

A notification pops up on my phone. I pick it up from the table and swipe the message. I look at the messenger and saw Jade. I read: What are you doing?

I reply, I'm going to dinner.

Where? She takes a moment to text back.

I try to think of the place Liam said. I text, I think it's call Monica's.

Okay, thanks, she responds. I close my phone and put it in my purse. It hurts me that I've been keeping my relationship with Liam hidden from Jade. She deserves to know. I think she is still healing from him. And I wouldn't blame her. I didn't even get over him.

But what if she finds out and hates me? Or worse? There is so many reasons why she would hate me. I am not being honest with her. And I need to be.

I think Liam is right when he said that I was pessimistic. But I believe that I am more cautious than I am negative. I don't want any conflict. That's it.

I slip on my heels and walk out of the room. I trot down the stairs and meet Liam in the living room. He stand tall, wearing his tux. He tucked one hand in his pocket and holds the other one out for me. "Hello, Ms. Hernandez," he greets.

"Hello, Mr. Payne," I reply.

"Ready?" He asks. I take his hand, and we begin to walk until I feel jitters in my stomach. I stop and grew nervous. "Is everything alright?" He asks.

"Yes," I respond. I turn around, searching for something except I didn't know what I was looking for. "Are we missing something?"

"I don't think so," he answers. "Bear is up in bed. The car is parked upfront, and I believe all that is left is for you and me to go to our dinner date."

I nod my head, pushing away the feeling. "Okay," I smile.

We proceed to walk, and he opens the door for me. I step inside and buckle up. Liam walks to the other side and sat behind the wheels. Once he buckled up, he turns on the engine and shifts the gear. We were soon off to the restaurant. I couldn't wait for it. Tonight is going to be magical.

I didn't really know what to expect. Even though Liam and I just began dating, it feels like we've been together for a long time. Maybe it's because we knew each other longer. Things were verbally good with us. Now, we're just seeing if we can work. And so far, things are great. Mentally. Emotionally. Socially. And Physically.

Liam parked in front of the restaurant. He takes a moment to inform me to stay in the car. He unbuckles and rushes out to my side and opens it. He holds out his hand, saying, "Milady."

I take it and walk out of the car. I wrap my hand around his arm, carrying my purse on the other side. We enter he restaurant, and immediately, I was hit with the sweet and savory scent. I didn't know what it was, but I was ready to try it. We head over to a private area. There was a table set for two, and Liam helps push my chair in as I sit down. Liam takes the seat in front of me.

A waiter came over, bringing a bottle of wine. He places the bottle on the table and sets the menu in front of us. He speaks, "How is everyone doing this fine Valentine evening?"