With Love, Étienne | ✓

Part II: Chapter Ten

ÉTIENNE STOOD A FEW FEET AWAY FROM ME.

I spent hours trying on different outfits and doing my hair and makeup until I finally settled on a black dress that hugged my curves and a pair of high heels that made me feel confident. Still, I couldn't help but feel a bit nervous. This was their first official, non-official date. I wondered if things would be awkward between us, or if we would still have the same easy chemistry that we always had as friends. Despite my nerves, I was determined to have a good time and make the most of the evening. I needed to remind myself that Étienne was someone I trusted and felt comfortable around, and that we were both looking forward to this (non)date. With a deep breath, I headed out the door, my heart racing with anticipation.

When I arrived, I noticed that the restaurant was nestled in a row of quaint, historic buildings, with a soft, warm light spilling out onto the cobblestone street. The sound of chatter and clinking glasses drifted out into the crisp evening air. A wrought-iron fence surrounded the outdoor seating area, with small trees and flowers planted along the perimeter. The smell of freshly baked bread and sizzling meat wafted out from the open kitchen, making my mouth water. I took a deep breath, smoothing down my dress and adjusted my hair, feeling excited and nervous all at once.

As I stepped out onto the bustling street, my eyes searched for him amidst the sea of faces. And then, there he was, leaning against a nearby lamppost, his silhouette illuminated by the soft glow of the streetlights. My heart leapt at the sight of him, and a smile spread across my face. The wind tousled his hair, making it dance in the breeze. He looked so handsome in his simple, yet stylish outfit - a crisp white shirt, dark trousers, and a navy blazer. He had a casual air about him, but he exuded confidence and charm. As I approached him, he straightened up, a smile spreading across his face as he caught sight of me. I felt my cheeks flush with warmth as our eyes met, and I couldn't help but think that he was even more striking up close. His chiseled jawline and intense gaze make my knees weak, and I couldn't help but feel a little self-conscious about my appearance.

"Hi Lou," he said with a smile, gesturing to pull me into a brief hug.

A shiver ran down my spine as he wrapped me in his warm embrace. "Hi, Étienne. It's good to see you."

When we pulled back, his eyes trailed over me and he tried to hide the smile blossoming on his lips. "Wow. . . You look beautiful."

I felt a blush creep up my cheeks, and I quickly looked away, feeling embarrassed. "Thank you," I said, trying to hide my smile.

It was then I noticed a lingering figure behind him. A women stood a few steps back, almost waiting for Étienne to turn around.  I couldn't help but notice how striking she was. Her dark hair cascaded down her shoulders in soft waves, framing her delicate features. Her bright blue eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint, and her red lips curved into a smile. Her petite frame was draped in a sleek black dress that hugged her curves in all the right places, and her confidence radiated off of her like a warm aura.

Étienne noticed my expression drawn elsewhere and the playful expression on his face dropped a little and he turned to follow my line of vision. My eyes flicked back and forth between his, searching for some kind of explanation, but all that I could see was guilt written all over his face.

"Lou, I'd like you to meet Marielle, my friend. Mar, this is Lou." He gestured between the two of us. The smile immediately dropped from my face.

"Marielle?" I faltered.

I couldn't help but feel a little confused. This was supposed to be our first dinner date, just the two of us. I didn't know Marielle well and I didn't understand why she was joining us. Étienne must have noticed my confusion because he quickly explained in a hushed voice. "Lou, I hope you don't mind, but I invited Mar to join us. She's been going through a tough time lately, and I thought it would be nice for her to get out of the house and spend some time with friends."