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I nodded. It did. It sounded perfect actually. Cyrus would quickly learn that I didn’t need fancy meals. My apartment was in a richer part of town but that was only because it was safer.

“I know we’re dressed up, but I want you comfortable, Ainsley. The Italian restaurant I was going to take you to might have been too busy for you.”

My heart warmed at the thoughtfulness coming from him. I gave him a small smile, tightening my hold on his hand that was resting on my lap. The fact that Cyrus focused solely on me and my comfort alone, spoke volumes.

“Alright, pet.” He brought my hand up to his mouth, placing a soft peck on the back of my knuckles. “Let’s get you some of that pie.”

We left the car and walked hand in hand toward the diner. Until we reached the door, Cyrus kept my fingers locked tightly between his. Even though it was something small, it forced a piece of my outer shell to shatter away. He told me to trust him before I even knew him and now, I found that I could. Maybe not completely yet, but I had a feeling that he could knock down all of my walls I had built, over time.

“After you, pet,” Cyrus said, holding the door open for me.

I walked into the establishment, waiting for him to follow.

All eyes turned toward us, probably wondering why we were dressed the way we were at a deli.

Cyrus came up to my side, placed his hand at the small of my back, and led me to a nearby table.

“Well, don’t you two look nice,” a waitress said, coming up to us as we sat. She placed two menus on the table. “Going somewhere fancy?”

“Nope.” Cyrus winked at me. “Just staying here. We dressed up for the milkshakes and pie.”

The waitress laughed. “I love it. First date?”

“Yes.” Cyrus reached across the table, finding my hand. “And hopefully the first of many.”

My cheeks burned, a wide smile spreading on my face.

“I remember the first date my husband took me on. Was to a place similar to this and then we went roller skating after.” She sighed. “It was perfect.” She shook herself. “Anyway, what can I get for you both?”

“Two strawberry milkshakes and a cherry pie, please,” Cyrus told her.

“A whole pie?” The waitress raised an eyebrow. “We usually only sell it by the piece.”

“We’d like the whole pie,” Cyrus told her. “I’ll pay extra if needed.”

“No need.” The waitress grinned, looking between us. “I’ll put your order in.” She rushed off, leaving me alone with Cyrus.

“I hope you’re fine with what I ordered us,” he said, his eyes dropping to our joined hands. His calloused thumb brushed back and forth over the base of my palm.

Pulling my phone out of my small clutch, I placed it on the table and began typing with my free hand.

Me: Thank you for taking me out. I’m having a very good time. I can’t ever repay you for this.

His phone dinged as soon as I hit send. He pulled it out of his inner pocket and placed it on the table between us. “You don’t have to thank me, pet.”

Me: I do. Most guys wouldn’t do this.

“What?” He frowned. “Take you out on a date?”

I nodded.

“I’m not a romantic kind of guy but for you, Ainsley, I will be.” His eyes burned into mine at his confession.

Me: Why?

“I’m not sure yet but when I figure it out, you’ll be the first to know.” He pulled his hand from mine and sat back in the booth.I like you but I also know you’re guarded to protect yourself,he signed.

I want to be less guarded.I met his gaze.With you.