“Is that what you think?” Lou shook her head. “I didn’t ask you out to prove a point, Mia. I swear to you. I asked you out because we had such a good time and…”

“Yes?”

“I don’t quite know how to put it into words,” Lou said. “I just knew I wanted to spend more time with you. Because of how I feel when I’m with you now that the dread has gone and the shock of seeing you again has worn off.” Lou cocked her head. “Is that enough of a reason?”

“What was I thinking asking for a reason in the first place?” Mia hoped the smile she gave Lou was convincing enough. Because she wanted to be here, despite her insecurities, and all the events that had led them to sitting opposite each other at this table. The air between them was rich with something intangible but exciting already. And Mia wondered if it would be there as well if they hadn’t known each other as teenagers.

“Any news on Annie’s?” Lou asked, changing the subject expertly.

They talked about the Pink Bean and bookshop merger for a while, how they were ironing out the kinks in their agreement and trying to come to terms that every party could be happy with, even though compromises would have to be made on both sides. It was a safe topic, but also the very thing that had instigated their increasing closeness.

After they finished their first glass of wine, Lou served dinner, which smelled and looked great. In spite of the wine, nerves were still getting the better of Mia’s stomach. Why did dates have to include eating anyway? Was it to closely scrutinize a potential love interest’s table manners and base future decisions on them? It seemed ridiculous to Mia as Lou set a plate of food in front of her.

“Linguini marinara,” Lou said. “Enjoy.”

“It’s really good,” Mia said after swallowing a bite. “You should cook more often.”

“Next time it’ll be your turn, obviously.” Lou grinned at her.

“Next time, huh? Aren’t you getting a little ahead of yourself?”

Lou shrugged. “Story of my life, really. In my mind, I’m always a couple of steps ahead. It’s how I’m wired. How I survive in this world.”

“That sounded a bit grim toward the end.” Mia loaded her fork but didn’t put it in her mouth. She regarded Lou instead. She could come out with the weirdest phrases at times, which was fascinating as well as puzzling.

“Well, for example, I can’t put all the blame of my failed relationship onto my ex.”

“Any more phone calls, by the way?” Mia asked.