Chapter 27: Chapter 27

RYAN POV

Yesterday's moment with Ariel never left the space of my mind. It was as if I kept getting reminded of what transpired yesterday most especially her seduction that almost got me.

Her shyness only made her cute, in some sense. At some point, I was mesmerized by her boldness in asking me out. In all, I said yes to her. And tonight will make it an easy way to fulfill her wish.

I drove the car at my pace, not too fast, neither too slow. I've promised to pick Ariel up at 8pm that night. I needed time to think. Was I doing the right thing?

At one end, I wanted to think about Evelyn, but Ariel's personality no doubt seemed similar to that of Evelyn. The peacemaking habit, calm and collected, beautiful when angry. A chuckle left my lips as I thought about it.

I parked in front of the house, as I called Ariel on my phone. Within a few seconds, she was out.

She wore a dark blue dress, buttoned up the front with pearl buttons, from her neck to her knees, matching blue shoes. Her hair was in a beautiful updo that was held by a gold clip. The makeup on her face was light and for a change, she wore fine jewels.

She walked closer, as I was completely dazzled by her look. She tiptoed, landing a soft kiss on my cheek. That brought me out of my reverie, as I cleared my throat.

“Shall we?” I asked, opening the door, as she entered. She smiled warmly, before I closed the door.

I entered, as I began to drive.

“Any popular hot soup restaurant, the bill is on me.” She stated confidently, as I smiled.

“It seems you are filthy rich already. Or are you spending the red pocket money they gifted you?.” I glanced at her briefly, before looking back on the road.

“It doesn't matter. All I know is that I am the one paying for our date tonight.” I nodded, as I put my other hand on the steering.

“How was work today?” She asked, as I let out a sigh.

“Tiring as always.” I said.

“Oh, sorry. Don't stress too much.”

“Yes ma'am.” I smiled, peeking at her, as she reciprocated the smile.

The atmosphere remained silent until the next few minutes before we reached the restaurant. We walked side by side into the restaurant, as her face lightened up a bit, most especially at the display of light in the restaurant. I think I need to start bringing her out more often.

We settled at a couple reservation, as we sat opposite each other. She ordered hot soup, as we started eating. She seemed to be a fan of hot soup as she ate more.

Her gaze flickered to mine, probably as she seemed to notice something.

“You don't eat hot soup, do you?” She asked, her gaze meeting mine.

“Yes, I don't eat much. But that shouldn't stop you from eating it.” She frowned at me, gently wiping her lips.

She called the waiter to stop her remaining order.

“You do not have to do that. You can still order more if you like.”

I do not want her to stop eating what she loves because of me.

“No. And this is not about putting your interest first. I just felt selfish ordering you to come to a hot soup restaurant without being sure whether you liked it or not.” I felt touched, my heart racing instantly.

I reached out for the back of her palm, as I touched it gently.

“Let's eat. I will just finish this bowl. That's all. I eat it too, but the spiciness isn't for me. So, I will just take a bowl of it.” I paused, seeing if that would at least change her mind.

Her face wore a complicated one.

“Ariel, you still have one more bowl to eat, please do. Subsequently, we can go stargazing.” I smiled, as she nodded.

She continued eating, her head buried in her food, though, at a safe level. To avoid staring, I simply picked up my spoon to continue the spicy meal. I quite marveled at the strength I had not to give up on eating. I am not quite tolerant of the taste.

I glanced up, as I noticed a presence that did nothing but upset me. She smiled as she sashayed to our side.

“Long time no see, dearest ex lover.” She scoffed, before her gaze landed on Ariel, who looked up.

“And his wife.” She added, smiling at Ariel.

“Cindy, your presence is not appreciated here. Can you just move on?” Seeing her alone changed my mood already.

She simply stood, her gaze lingering from Ariel to I. It was as if she were checking out something.

“Won't you mind doing some introduction between me and your wife?” Cindy butted in, as Ariel's stare cut to mine.

I put down my spoon, as I swallowed the remaining lump of soup that seemed to have been stuck to my throat.

“Babe, meet my ex-girlfriend in high school. Cindy, meet Ariel, my love.” I hinted, as she still had a fake smile on her lips.

“Nice to meet you, Ariel. I never expected your husband to describe me that way to you. So disheartening.” She held her chest, in a sense of pity.

“Just get the fuck out of here.” I gritted, trying not to shout, so as not to raise attention.

Ariel glanced at me, as she gave me a look. She smiled, before looking at Samantha.

“Don't mind my husband. But, he seemed to have told me a lot about you.” I felt stunned for a while, and I am sure Cindy was too.

She had a complicated look.

“Go on, please. Did he mention some naughty things we did?” Cindy stated, giving a crooked laugh.

I was speechless, as I had my eyes on Ariel, who did not look perplexed a bit.

“Of course he did. He mentioned how you paid someone to make a dare for both of you to date for a month. Not only that, he also mentioned how you made attempt to make him have sex with you. Isn't that disgusting, honey?” She turned to face me, as I nodded, trying not to laugh.

Cindy's face gave way to anger, as her cheeks reddened.

“You…” Cindy pointed at Ariel, as she felt a loss of words.

Ariel took a sip of the red wine.

“Do you want to hear more?” She winked at Cindy, who mumbled, as she left instantly.

Wow. I was amazed. Ariel was sassy, but at the same time, what she said about Cindy, and I was true. Way back in high school, when I gave in to peer pressure to date. I never liked Cindy. She was a slut.

“Ariel, how did you know so much?” I couldn't help but ask.

“About that, I won't be letting the cat out of the bag.” She gave a mischievous smile, as she took one more sip of the wine.

I simply stared at her. I could easily make a guess of who told her about my high school life. I just hope she is oblivious to who Evelyn was.

“I need to visit the restroom.” I nodded, pushing back my thoughts.

“Will you be able to find your way around here?”

“Yes. Don't worry.” She left, as I stared at her fading silhouette.

I used the time Ariel was not around to finish up my hot soup. I simply hope this night can end soon. I am tired already. And Cindy had successfully spoiled my mood tonight.

In a few minutes, Ariel came back, as she wore an angry expression.

“Ariel, are you okay?” She ignored me, as she gulped down the remaining hot soup.

She cleaned her lips as she waved to the waiter, paying off the bill with her card.

Furthermore, she stood up, as a flash of mixed emotions clouded me. Furthermore, she was happy earlier. What is wrong now?

“Kindly meet me in the car, Ryan.” She walked out, leaving me speechless.

Aghast and shocked, I simply typed to a group where Nick and two other close friends of mine were.

'What could cause a lady on a date who was once happy to suddenly be angry? And what can one do to please her?'

Hitting the send button, I quickly got up to leave.

Just when I thought Ariel and I were getting to understand each other better, she decided to prove me wrong.