Chapter 8

It was time for their first romantic date out on the town. People needed to see Bram romancing her. She could handle him being romantic, right? She hoped so.

The soft glow of the setting sun bathed the quaint Italian bistro in a warm, inviting light as Bram and Tabitha stepped inside. The aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs wafted through the air, instantly transporting Tabitha back to the charming trattorias she had visited during her travels to Italy.

Bram pulled out a chair for her before settling into his own seat. "I've been looking forward to this all day," he said, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. "So, I remember you saying Italy is one of your favorite places to travel. What do you love most about their cuisine?"

Tabitha's face lit up. "Oh, where do I even begin? The pasta in Italy is simply divine. I could live on carbonara and cacio e pepe alone." She closed her eyes for a moment, a dreamy smile on her lips. "The way the creamy sauce coats every strand of perfectly al dente pasta, and the burst of flavor from the pancetta and Pecorino Romano cheese—it's pure bliss."

Bram chuckled, leaning in closer. "The way you describe it makes me want to hop on a plane to Italy right now."

"Trust me, it's worth the trip." Tabitha grinned. "And don't even get me started on the gelato. I swear, I've never tasted anything so creamy and indulgent."

As they chatted, the waiter arrived with a basket of warm crusty bread and a carafe of robust red wine. Tabitha tore off a piece of bread, the crisp crust giving way to the soft, fluffy interior. She dipped it in the olive oil, savoring the rich, fruity flavor.

"You look like you really like that."

"I don't know about anybody else, but food is definitely my love language."

The conversation flowed effortlessly as they enjoyed their meal, the flickering candlelight casting a romantic glow over their table. Bram listened intently to Tabitha's stories, his eyes never leaving hers. She found herself getting lost in his deep, soulful gaze, her heart fluttering with every smile he sent her way.

After their plates were cleared and the bill settled, Bram stood and extended his hand to Tabitha. "I have a surprise for you. Come with me."

Intrigued, Tabitha placed her hand in his, relishing the warmth and strength of his grip. Bram led her through the town, the cool evening breeze caressing their skin as they walked hand in hand.

As they approached the pristine lake that bordered Whispering Pines, Tabitha gasped. "Oh, Bram. It's beautiful."

Bobbing gently in the water was a charming wooden boat adorned with twinkling fairy lights. Bram helped her aboard, his strong arms guiding her safely onto the cushioned seats.

With a gentle push, they set off across the tranquil waters, the soft lapping of the waves against the boat creating a soothing melody. Tabitha trailed her fingers through the cool water, marveling at the way the stars flickered overhead, their reflection dancing on the mirror-like surface of the lake.

Bram shifted closer, his arm wrapping around Tabitha's shoulders, pulling her into a warm embrace. She melted into his touch, her head resting on his broad chest as they watched the heavens.

"This is perfect," Tabitha whispered, tilting her head to look up at Bram. "Thank you for tonight. I have never had a real date this wonderful."

Bram smiled softly, his hand coming up to caress her cheek. "Fake relationship or not, a woman like you deserves to be romanced."

Oh, man. He said the words in a rough tone that made her heart skip a beat.

"You're really good at this romance stuff."

He leaned into her in a slow motion, giving her a chance to back out. She waited. His lips brushed over hers in a featherlight caress. "You deserve all the happiness in the world, Tabitha. I'm just grateful to be a part of it."

He took her lips again. This time in a passionate kiss that left her breathless. Tabitha's heart raced, her fingers tangling in his hair as she pulled him closer, deepening the kiss.

It was not at all the light taps she'd expected. This was a man kissing her in full-hunger mode. He kissed her deeply and so skillfully, she lost herself in his touch.

When they parted, Tabitha playfully raised an eyebrow. "I thought we agreed to keep things PG, mister. That was definitely NC-17."

Bram chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I don't recall ever agreeing to that."

Tabitha laughed, swatting his chest lightly. "You are one bad bear, you know that?"

"Only when it comes to you," Bram winked, pulling her in for another kiss.

As they sailed past the shore, the townspeople gathered there waved, their smiles and cheers made her forget this romance was all for show.

Throughout the enchanting boat ride, Bram continued to shower Tabitha with affectionate gestures and stolen kisses, each one igniting a spark within her. The way he held her close, the way his lips lingered on hers, the way his eyes shone with genuine adoration—it all made Tabitha's feelings for him grow stronger with every passing moment. That in itself was dangerous enough, but the depth of how much she wanted him was even more so.