Crossing Paths

CHAPTER 18

"Baby, it's for you." he extended his right hand, holding a bouquet of sunflowers, the first kind of flower he gave me.

"Thank you."

I took it without standing from my seat when our hands grazed, sending an electrocuting jolt in my veins. I gulped, disliking how my body reacts positively to a simple touch.

To my surprise, he leaned down and kissed me on my cheek. "You're welcome. And oh, I just wanna say, you look extra lovely today."

God. Such a flatterer! He was the one who looked dashing tonight with his formal attire. The black turtle neck inside his gray suit partnered with his gray pants looked heavenly. It hugs his every shape perfectly. Ahem!

After the pleasantries and Aiden's little show, mom invited her friend to dine with us.

"But I don't want to impose, Diana! It's a special day for your daughter."

"Nonsense! We're basically family now. Our children are dating and I assure you, my daughter will be thrilled to celebrate this day with her boyfriend."

I tried so hard not to roll my eyes at the statement and I can sense how awkward my smile is. On the other hand, I feel Aiden's smile widen, feeling hopeful and ecstatic.

In the end, they joined us and to make it worse, Aiden sat beside me, taking Clem's seat because she insisted for us to sit together. My parents sat across me and Aiden while Clem and Mrs. Carter were sitting at the both ends of the table. Just perfect.

"I didn't know your girlfriend is more beautiful in person. The pictures you sent me last time didn't do her any justice!" Mrs. Carter said to her son. Then she turned to my mom.

"That's why she looked so familiar, she was your daughter!"

They both laughed and here I was, suffering instead of celebrating. Thankfully the food arrived before either of our mom could utter another word.

They talked over food, the conversation flowed around our career and future jobs and I only spoke when I needed to like answering their questions. I did not initiate a new topic nor added my opinion to the subject they are already talking about.

Aiden must have noticed my silence because he took my hand under the table and asked me, "Are you okay? You didn't like the food or are you hurt?"

I saw in his eyes that he is genuinely concerned so I gently took my hand back and ran it through my hair, a subtle excuse.

"Yeah. Just a little bit tired, you know."

I sipped from my glass and held it even after I finished my drink, afraid that if Aiden try to hold my hand, it would send another shiver down my spine.

The moon was already out when we finished eating and talking. Dad went out to get the car but he came back as quickly as he left, slightly soaked.

"What happened to you, dad?" I asked while I gave him my handkerchief so he could dry himself.

"Thank you, honey." he got the cloth in my hand and used it to blot his forehead. "It was pouring outside. If we stay here a little longer, we'll be having a hard time going back home. And oh, I got the umbrella so you won't get douse when you get in the car."

That statement got a soft smile from me and mom. It is such a simple but a sweet gesture from dad.

On our side, Aiden and his mom were talking in a hushed tone but mom seemed to notice their dilemma.

"Lucy, why don't you and your son stay the night at our house? There is enough space for everyone."

Aiden and I shared a look for a moment or two before I turned to my mom, but dad spoke before I could, "That would be a good idea. Our house is just a couple of minutes away from here. It's also late, it wouldn't be good for either of you to drive for hours."