Not Safe For Work: A Steamy Fake Dating Romance

Chapter 7

27 Months Ago

“Wereyou surprised that I asked you out?” Ian inquires from across the table.

I’m not sure how to answer the question. I was definitely surprised when one of our board members decided to speak to me at all. But once he started hitting on me, no, getting my number wasn’t exactly a surprise.

“Definitely,” I reply. It feels like the response he’s looking for.

“Do you like wine?”

“Actually—”

“Don’t worry, I’ll order. I know it’s confusing. They have excellent wine here. I bet I can find something you’ll love.”

I’m not sure why I don’t speak up, but it feels like he wants to impress me. It feels kind of nice that he wants to impress me. Well, it feels nice until he orders a cab that’s extremely overpriced and way too dry. But I can look past that.

“You know you’re the most beautiful woman in the restaurant, right?” It doesn’t feel like a question, so I don’t respond, but my cheeks heat nonetheless. “Everyone here is probably wondering what you could possibly be doing with me.”

“I doubt anyone would think that.” And it’s true. Ian’s not just handsome, he has this air about him that lets you know he’s won at life.

He grins. I like it when he grins at me.

When the waiter returns, Ian whispers to him, ordering both of us something that’s not even on the menu. Our server actually winks before he walks away.

“What was that?” I ask, hoping he didn’t order one of the many things I’m allergic to.

“A surprise.” He takes my hand in his over the table. “Just humor me and pretend like it isn’t painfully obvious how hard I’m trying here.”

Our date continues with him showering me with compliments. I’m not sure how well we get to know each other, but I do learn a lot about his job. It’s impressive that he’s the youngest partner at his venture capitalist firm. He gets to work with clients all over the world.

The furthest I’ve traveled from home is Colorado.

When our meal arrives, Ian’s excitement only grows. He explains every detail of the three raw courses we’ll be sharing as if I’ve never eaten fish before.

“They only serve this to five tables a night. That’s why it’s not on the main menu. Do you know how lucky you are that you came with me?” he asks before popping another piece of flounder in his mouth. This man really loves rhetorical questions.

I’ve always enjoyed food. My oldest brother is an incredible chef and because of him, I’ve understood wine pairings since I was old enough to drink—which in my family was age nine.

Ian made it clear his special order was expensive, so I know I shouldn’t complain, but the delicate scallop crudo being washed down by the heavy tannins in this cabernet is honestly the worst. I didn’t plan on ordering dessert, but I get a slice of flourless chocolate cake just so my taste buds don’t go on strike.

And when he feeds me a bite of cake from across the table, his eyes glued to my lips the whole time, all is forgiven. I’ve forgotten anything that didn’t contribute to this being the perfect date.

As soon as we leave the restaurant, he takes my hand and pulls my body against him.

“There’s something I’ve been thinking about all night.”

I open my mouth to respond but his lips find mine before I can ask the question. His kiss is hungry and demanding, his tongue finding mine almost instantly. His hand slides down my back until it rests on my hip and squeezes.

“Come home with me.” Again, it’s not a question, but my answer would be yes all the same. My first date since living in San Francisco feels like a dream. And Ian Thompson is the weaver.

Andie Oh:

How’d it go

Me:

I just got home ;)

It’seleven in the morning so I think she gets the hint.

The truth is I never wanted to leave his apartment. It was this beautiful space with all floor-to-ceiling windows on top of Russian Hill. The views alone were drool-worthy. It’s exactly the kind of place I always imagined when I pictured living in the city.

Unfortunately, with my salary, and even quite a bit of financial help from my parents, all I can afford is a tiny studio. After talking to people at work, I just feel fortunate to not have multiple roommates.

Andie Oh:

I need details!

I mean, not those details, well, unless you want to share ;)

But did you have fun? Will you see him again?

Me:

Lots of fun

And I’m seeing him again today

He wants to take me shopping

A few seconds later my phone starts buzzing.

“Shopping?” Andie screeches into my ear.

“Yeah, he said he knows some stores I might like that will help elevate my wardrobe.” I repeat his words exactly because I’m still not sure what he meant.

My family has always made fun of my fashion choices, but that’s because they all dress like they live on a farm. Dresses and heels are half the reason I wanted to move to the city.

“You have great style,” Andie says, her voice defensive. And then a little softer, “But I guess I’d never turn down a shopping trip on someone else’s dime.”

My thoughts exactly.

“It just annoys me,” she continues. “Men always feel like they should get an opinion on how women dress.”

“They do?” I ask. Of course, this has happened to me, mainly at the holiday party when I wore the most sparkly dress I could find that wouldn’t blind anyone permanently. But I thought it was a “me” thing.

“Ugh, yes. You know Davide, right? Head of Product? He’s always telling me I shouldn’t wear chunky sweaters, that they’re not flattering on me.” She huffs. “I am always cold, and why would I care what he thinks about me anyway? I’m not at work looking for a husband.”

That’s so rude. I would never have the gall to say something like that, especially to a coworker. I’ve only met Davide once. Hopefully it stays that way.

“Sorry, just venting,” Andie continues. “I hope you have the best shopping trip ever. You better call me after and tell me all about it.”

Ian picksme up an hour later, but instead of heading downtown, we drive to the airport.

He’s taking me shopping in LA.