Inheritance

Chapter 12

"So, how have you been?" I lowered my voice to address Caleb privately, once people returned to their side conversations.

"I've been great, had a bit of a busy week though. I'm working on securing another gym property in New Jersey. You should come check it out with me one of these days."

"I would love to. I'm not too knowledgeable about real estate, but I'm sure I could add a few of my personal insights." He rewarded my answer with one of his charming smiles, before squeezing my shoulder then looking down at the plates that were now being served on our table.

"For your main dish tonight, my colleagues and I have prepared Coq Au Vin, otherwise known as wine stewed chicken. We hope the meal is to your liking." The head chef announced in a proud French accent, while his staff proceeded to place a variety of dishes on the long table.

"This looks absolutely amazing, which is to be expected from one of the best chefs in the city. Lord, please bless this wonderful meal for those of us who are favored enough to eat it and those of us who selflessly helped to prepare it. Alright, everyone please dig in." My uncle declared at the head of the table.

He didn't have to tell me twice. I took my first spoon of food and nearly fell out of my chair from the rich and vibrant taste. The food smelled exquisite, as mushrooms, potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and balsamic leaves marinated the juicy chicken floating around in a creamy red stew. My mouth watered from the savory sight, coupled with the way the sauces stimulated each one of my taste buds as they travelled down my throat.

Caleb glanced at me comically, before taking a bite of his meal and also sharing a similar euphoric response. "Wow, this is really good. I hope no one minds if I steal the chef's number after this." He joked.

"Tell me about it." I agreed, as Caleb took my hand in his.

"Sasha, I've been thinking about where I want our relationship to go. I know that we've been taking things slow and at our own pace, but I do want to spend more time with you. Let me take you out on an actual date. Not just for coffee." He said, as his thumb rubbed soft circles over my hand.

All of a sudden, I felt like a nervous wreck. Was I ready to take this next step with Caleb? I knew I liked him and he was everything I could hope for in a potential partner. He was respectful, caring, attractive, and kind. He was the man I'd been secretly wishing for all along, so what was holding me back? 

I turned away from Caleb, only to meet the penetrating stare of Kendall who had been observing the entire interaction. His eyes were locked on Caleb and I's intertwined hands, as his lips twitched downward, then returned to their neutral disposition.

"I think that would be amazing." I concluded, as Caleb pulled me in for an embrace and a quick peck on the cheek.   

"Looks like Sasha finally got asked out on a date." Frank, who had been eavesdropping, informed the room, while he enthusiastically clapped his hands together. I rolled my eyes at the spectacle he was making.

Everyone either applauded, teased, or laughed at the announcement, including my uncle who probably thought that I would never date anyone. For the rest of the dinner, Caleb and I ate all of the dishes brought out for us and disappeared into our own little world. I felt at peace with him. 

There was no drama, no forbidden romance, and no stress. I could get used to this feeling.

~~~

When dinner was over, I said goodbye to Caleb who had to leave for an early morning meeting. Trekking up the spiral stairs, I made my way to the room at the end of the hall. As soon as I entered the comfy quarters once known as my childhood bedroom, I rummaged through the tall dressers, until finding a hideous pajama set that I had most likely stashed away years ago.