UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER (EDITED VERSION)

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: The do-over

-Shelley-

Once I arrive at the venue, I see Ben seated at a table at the far end. It looks like he arrived early and reserved a table for us. I make my way over to him. As I approach him, he takes notice of me. His eyes gave me a once-over before he stood up. I am wearing a long-sleeved V-neck printed wrap-around white dress with a flat shoe, and his eyes linger on my feet before he meets my gaze.

"Good afternoon. Sorry for keeping you waiting."

"Never mind that. You are here, and that's what matters. By the way, you look beautiful." Damn, that woman knows how to pick her clothes.

With a smile tag on my lips, I reply. "You don't look bad yourself." Not that you need to put any effort into it. You look good in almost anything." He blushed at my compliment as he stood there.

What the fuck is going on with her today? Acknowledging my efforts all together. "Hey, where did my manners go? Sorry. Kindly take a seat." He awkwardly ushered me into my chair and sat across from me.

What the fuck is going on with me? For what reason am I feeling so anxious right now? "This place is amazing. What made you choose this place? Are you a frequent guest here?"He asks while nervously sipping his water.

"Nah, I barely drop by here once or twice. Your approval is greatly appreciated. This location was my top pick because of its stunning interior design, soothing ambience, tasty food, and pleasant staff."

"Aside from that, I can afford it. Only when I need a peaceful spot to get some work done do I come here? In case you need a quiet place to get some work done, they have a comfortable work area." Looking across from where we sat, I gestured towards the neatly organised area.

"Thank you for your suggestion. I will consider it," he says. "It is comfortable here. Let's hope the menu will be outstanding too." 

While I made myself comfortable, I couldn't help but stare at him. Wow, he's quite dashing. He went for a more laid-back look today, for some reason. Blue pants, a white t-shirt with rolled-up sleeves, and black shoes make up his outfit. Was his hair buzzed? I wondered. Compared to how it was before, it appears somewhat shorter. Ben's yell of my name caught me off guard, as I was too focused on his appearance.

"Yeah?"

"What will you have?" He tilts his head to the side, trying to draw my attention to the waiter. It looks like she was waiting for a reply to something. I look at the waiter, noticing her holding a menu in my direction.

"Oh, sorry. I got distracted there." I caught sight of Ben's slight smile.

"Uh..." I will have the mini hot vegetable spring rolls and hot chicken wings to go with any fine drink you will recommend. I gave out my order without even taking the menu.

"All right, ma'am. What about you, sir?"

"I will have homemade chicken goujons. Thank you." He hands the menu back to the waiter.

"Okay, sir, ma'am. I will be right over with your orders." The waiter walks away.

"So, how was work?"

Shrugging, I say, "Uh, good."

"How is Blackson treating you?"

"Just fine. You don't need to worry about that. I can handle him." I assured.

"How long have you two been working together?"

"It has been two and a half years and counting."

"That is enough time for you to adjust to him." He says.