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LOVE - Nat King Cole

T he restaurant's warm ambiance envelops us as soon as we step inside, promising a memorable evening. Soft lighting casts a gentle glow over rustic wooden tables adorned with flickering candles, while local artwork adds charm to the cosy space.

"Good to see you both," John says, his smile genuine as he and his wife, Rose, greet us. John leads us to a table by the bar.

The menu at Harbour Lights offers a delightful mix of modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Known for its exquisite seafood dishes and extensive wine list, the restaurant's reputation is well-deserved. The song "L-O-V-E" by Nat King Cole softly plays in the background, a nostalgic melody that brings memories of my parents.

Earlier in the evening, I FaceTimed Jamie, who helped me choose the perfect outfit—a red paisley dress paired with my favourite heeled ankle boots to give me some height around Bradley's towering frame. Excitement buzzed within me until Olivia's message came through, asking to hang out.

Dread washed over me .

I'd told Liv I was going out for dinner with the girls from work, and she'd been understanding. Yet, inside, my gut was in shambles, twisting and turning with guilt. Bradley pulls out the chair for me, and it causes my heart to flutter. I know we need to sort this out, find the right time to tell her. For now, I push those thoughts aside and focus on the evening ahead, hoping that tonight will be a chance to forget about my worries, at least for a little while. Conversation flows easily. John, who's been at the station long before Bradley, shares stories from work. Rose, vibrant with her Spanish background, exudes a confidence I admire. She works at a real estate agency not far from my job—a nice coincidence.

As we enjoy our drinks—my second wine, while the guys stick to their first beers—Bradley drapes his arm around my chair, twirling a strand of my hair. His touch sends a pleasant shiver down my spine.

"So, John, how did you and Rose meet?" I ask.

John grins. "At a salsa dancing class in town. Rose was a natural, and I... well, let's just say I needed a lot of practice."

Rose laughs. "He was so charming, though. Kept stepping on my toes, but I couldn't help but be drawn to him."

I glance at Bradley, who's smirking. "Didn't know you were into salsa, John," he says, teasing.

"I'm not into salsa dancing," he protests, but then catches the glare Rose shoots at him and quickly changes his tune. "I mean, I wasn't , but Rose changed my mind. It's actually pretty fun."

Bradley and I laugh, the sound mingling with the soft background music and the chatter of other diners. The easy camaraderie among us feels comfortable and natural.

A smile spreads across my face. "It sounds like fate brought you two together."

Rose nods, looking fondly at John. "Absolutely. Sometimes, you just know when you've found the one."

Bradley glances at me with a soft smile, making my heart skip a beat. His hand slides under the table to rest on my thigh, my pulse quickening. As his fingers trace gentle patterns on my leg, I struggle to keep still, the desire for him intensifying.

"Amelia, how do you like working at Koala Creek Primary?" Rose asks, her eyes genuinely curious.

"I love it," I reply. "The kids are great, and the staff is wonderful. It's challenging, but rewarding."

Bradley squeezes my thigh gently, a silent show of support. I glance at him, and his eyes are filled with pride and affection, making me feel like the luckiest woman in the world. The night progresses with more laughter and shared stories, the atmosphere relaxed and inviting. As dessert arrives—a decadent chocolate fondant for the table to share—John raises his glass. "To new friendships and unforgettable nights," he toasts.

"To new friendships," we echo, clinking glasses.

There's a slight buzz from the two glasses of wine I've had, but not enough to call myself tipsy. I just feel warm inside. Arms linked with Rose, we make our way outside, the boys trailing behind .

"So, you and Bradley, huh?" Rose asks with a knowing smile.

I blush. "I guess so," I say, feeling the warmth spread to my cheeks.

"You two suit each other so well, and that man is so smitten."

"Thank you. It's still fairly new, but it feels like it's been forever, you know?" At least for me.

"I do know." She smiles warmly. "And that man has eyes for only you. And I'm talking heart eyes. I think John needs to take some notes." We both laugh just as the guys catch up to us. Bradley's eyes catch mine in an intense gaze before he winks at me. John and Rose bid their farewells, and Rose pulls me in for a hug before whispering, "Heart eyes. I'm telling you." It makes me laugh softly.

We wave them goodnight before heading to Bradley's car.

"What was so funny?" he questions with a curious look.

"Oh, nothing. Rose is just… she's great."

"Mhm," he says, coming up to me, trapping me against the passenger door. He dips his head, planting a kiss in the sensitive spot between my collar and jaw, and I shiver. He trails kisses up the column of my neck to my jaw before capturing my lips in a soft kiss.

I wrap my arms around his neck, pulling him deeper, coaxing his tongue with mine. He plants one hand on my jaw and the other wraps around my hair, tugging on it to tilt my head upward.

"Brad…" I moan, exhaling. "I think… I'm ready."

"Ready for?" he asks, his voice husky.

"I think you know. Please. I need you," I say, pressing myself against his thigh, which is firmly nestled between my legs. With that, he picks me up, puts me into his car, and drives off, heading straight for my apartment.