Chapter 64

• It’s a romantic old Victorian, with a gigantic wraparound porch and balcony. The interior is just as lush as the outside, filled with highbrow furnishings and pricey art pieces. I’m in awe with every step, but Darren makes me feel right at home. We spend the afternoon hanging out and talking about everything. He tells me his hopes, I share my dreams. He gives me a secret, I share one, too. The age gap of nearly twenty years hardly enters my mind. I’ve always been an old soul, and Darren is the most gently commanding man I’ve ever met. He puts me at ease with his kindness, and he makes me feel safe with his power.
• In the evening, we go into the kitchen to make a romantic dinner together. While we cook, we listen to Sinatra on his antique record player. We put a delicious chicken with potatoes and carrots into the oven to be slow-roasted. We pour glasses of wine and sip them while we laugh and kiss. Darren sweeps me into his arms and we slow dance, my cheek resting against his heart. I can’t stop smiling, and my soul is full of love.
• “You know, I never expected this,” I whisper.