Following Rain by Nelson Darrel

Author:Nelson, Darrel [Nelson, Darrel]
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Published: 2015-11-23T08:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 24

Elliot’s Oyster House was a popular restaurant in Downtown, situated along the waterfront. It specialized in oysters but also featured a wide variety of seafood. Rain had never been here before, and she studied the interior nervously as the hostess greeted them at the door.

She enjoyed being around Paul but was uncomfortable with the notion that this was an official date. It made things seem so formal. And somewhat awkward.

It began when Paul arrived with a bouquet of wildflowers. She had no vase to put them in, so she filled a kettle with water. The container was large and clunky in comparison to the delicate flowers, and she felt embarrassed about using it.

Things became more awkward when she saw that he was wearing dress pants and a button-down shirt. She decided she was underdressed and raced back into her bedroom. Rummaging through her closet, she selected her nicest dress. She took a moment to check her makeup, and then she brushed her hair so it fell loosely about her shoulders.

When she finally emerged, Paul stared long enough to make her feel self-conscious. “You look beautiful,” he said.

The ride to the restaurant was casual and comfortable, filled with idle chitchat and variations of How was your day and how are things going? She tried to get him to reveal his idea for the fundraiser, but he just smiled mysteriously and said, “During dinner.”

She employed his tactic of subtle investigation by asking questions that approached the subject from different angles, but he was having none of it. He laughed and changed the subject. Frowning good-naturedly, she sighed in resignation and went along with him, aware that he was watching her from the corner of his eye.

They continued their casual conversation until they arrived at the restaurant. Things turned formal when she surveyed the exterior of the high-end establishment and realized she was out of her element.

Now as the hostess led them to their table, Rain studied the stylish décor and tugged at her dress uncomfortably. She would have to save up for a month to be able to eat at a restaurant of this caliber. Two months if Charlie accompanied her.

Paul held her chair and then sat across from her.

“Your waiter will be right with you,” the hostess said, placing their menus in front of them before departing.

Paul interlocked his fingers and looked at her. “I’m really glad you could join me, Rain. You deserve a break from all the hard work you’ve been doing.”

She forced a smile that she hoped was natural in appearance. “Are you ready to tell me about your idea for the fundraiser?”

He laughed lightly and shook his head. “Let’s order first.”

Exhaling slowly, she opened her menu and then stifled a gasp when she saw the prices.

Paul noticed her reaction. “It’s not the home cooking I helped serve at the homeless shelter on Monday, but I’m sure you’ll find something equally delicious.”

And terribly more expensive! Rain thought. She began searching for the cheapest item on the menu.

Their waiter, a young man with black hair and a silver stud in one ear, arrived.

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