Chapter 82
“ P eanut,” I praise, looking around Dani’s apartment for the first time.
I’m immediately struck by how beautifully she’s put it all together.
“No angry lights.” I laugh, remembering her distaste for fluorescent lighting.
The floor-to-ceiling windows provide incredible natural light.
She giggles, and I don’t think I’ll ever get over how much I love that sound.
Like her, the apartment is unique, with thoughtful touches everywhere, from the art on the walls to the chic furniture. I feel a surge of pride as I look around.
“You’ve done an amazing job with the place. I’m impressed.”
Dani beams, a look of satisfaction on her face.
“Who put all this furniture together?”
“I did a lot of it.” She smiles. “Thank you for everything. It was also great to pay for some help too.”
“So handy.”
“Well, I had a little motivation. Living in chaos is not my thing, so I wanted to get it finished as fast as possible.”
I walk over to the windows, taking in the view of the Chicago River and the city skyline. “You’ve made it look so effortless.” Changing the subject, I share the surprise I’ve been planning. “I’ve arranged something special for us to do this evening, just a short walk from here.”
“Oh? A surprise?”
“You’ll see.”
“Does it have to do with my birthday?”
“It does.”
“Well, I have a little birthday request.”
“Anything.”
“My parents want to have us over for dinner at their house. I’d like it if you could come and meet them.”
The invitation catches me off guard in a good way. Meeting her parents is a significant step, one that I hadn’t anticipated so soon. “I’d love to meet your parents, Dani.”
Her smile widens. “They’re excited to meet you. And a bit nervous. I should have talked to you about it sooner … I was ruminating on it and decided it feels right. They are hoping to have us over on Saturday.”
“Perfect. That means I get you on your actual birthday.” I smile, then consider our age difference. “Do they know how old I am?”
“Yes, old man.”
“Good. I’ll do my best to make a good impression.” I wink.
She reaches for my hand. “Just be yourself. That’s the person I want them to meet.”