“I’d like that.”
“Now it’s my turn. Maddie, tell me something about yourself that not many people know.”
She thought for a moment and said, “Well…like I said before, I really love music. You might be surprised to hear that I play an instrument too. I play the violin. I’ve played it for a number of years and I am fairly accomplished at it—if I do say so myself.”
“That’s awesome! You’ll have to play for me sometime. You should bring your violin to our rehearsal one night and play it for everyone.”
“I could do that,” she said and nodded in agreement. “Or maybe I’ll just play it for you sometime—a private audience.”
Her lips turned up in a mischievous smile as he became aroused. He fought back the urge to move around the table and take her in his arms. But for some reason his instincts told him to hold back and play it cool. He did enjoy just talking with her, after all. But as much as he wanted to kiss her—and do so much more than kiss her—he didn’t want to spoil a great evening by making the wrong move. Instead, he took her hand in his and said sincerely, “I’d really love that.”
Again, their eyes locked as she softly said, “So would I.”
But she made no further move, so Adam let it be and just focused on enjoying the time with her. They talked a while longer about their interests, hobbies, and music. They opened up to each other more than Adam expected, and he didn’t want the evening to end.
He snapped out of this thoughts of an endless night with Maddie when she stood up abruptly and said, “Adam, I’ve really enjoyed tonight and getting to know you and some of your friends. I haven’t enjoyed myself this much in a really long time. Thank you so much for inviting me.”
Adam jumped and stuttered awkwardly, “Oh…yeah…of course. I’ve really enjoyed it too. I’m so glad that you came.”
He also stood. Maddie smiled at him, but it seemed different. Did he detect a hint of sadness? Why was she leaving so suddenly? Maybe he was overanalyzing again.
She said, “Unfortunately it’s getting late and I guess I better get going. I have a lot to do tomorrow, and I need to get at least a few hours of sleep.”
He tried not to show his disappointment. Instead, he fake-smiled and said, “Sure. I completely get it. I’ll walk you to your door.”
They continued their conversation on the way to her apartment, which was so convenient next to his. As they walked, Adam tried to think of a way to set up the next encounter with her. He didn’t want to let her go before he asked her out, or at least got her phone number.
When they arrived at her door he said, “We’re playing at the Venus De Milo tomorrow night. Have you ever been there?”
“No, I haven’t ventured out much since I moved to the city,” she said. “What exactly is it?”
“It’s a huge, three-level nightclub on MacDougal Street, with live music on the main floor every night, a DJ dance hall, and a game room. Many famous alternative rock bands got their start there. You never know which famous musician will drop in to play with the house bands. Only the best bands are offered standing weekend gigs, and Night Fury recently landed Friday nights. You should come by and check out the show. I’ll even make sure you get a VIP pass for backstage.”
He winked.
She grinned and said, “I just might have to do that.”
“I guarantee our real performances are a lot different than our rehearsals in the residents’ lounge. It would really be worth your while.”
She nodded. “This I might have to see. What time do you go on?”
“The show starts at nine o’clock tomorrow. We get there at least an hour ahead of time to set up and do sound check and stuff. You’re welcome to come at any time. You can even ride over with me if you want to.”
She thought for a moment as if mentally checking her calendar and said, “I’ll have to see how things go tomorrow. I’ll try to make it, but I can’t make any promises. Don’t wait for me. If I decide to come, I’ll meet you there. Again, I really enjoyed tonight.”
He leaned on her doorframe and said, “Thank you again for the Shark Fin beer. I still can’t believe you just happened to randomly pick it out for us. That’s crazy.”
“I’m glad you liked it. Goodnight, Adam.”
She leaned over and kissed him gently on the cheek. Her lips felt soft and warm. It sent pleasurable pulses of heat throughout his body.
“Goodnight, Madeline.”
He inhaled deeply as he watched her unlock her door and go inside. This girl was special. This girl was hot. He really enjoyed her company and he couldn’t wait to see her again.
Chapter 6
The next day Maddie called Sancha to give her the full report. Sancha must have been waiting for the call; she answered on the first ring. “Well, how did it go? I’m dying to find out!”
Maddie laughed at Sancha’s excitement.
“It went great. I had a really nice time and met some of his friends. The band is extremely talented, and it was fun watching them rehearse.”
“Go on. Go on.”
“Well…Adam and I hit it off. He’s so sweet and gorgeous, and easy to talk to. We had a great time.”
“Really? That’s wonderful!”
“Yeah, we sat outside on the rooftop terrace after everyone else left and talked for hours. I felt oddly comfortable talking to him. He seems like a really good guy, and did I mention that he is really sweet and so good-looking?”
Sancha laughed. “I believe you did mention that once or twice. Does he seem interested in you as more than a friend?”
“I definitely think so. We flirted a little bit. I haven’t had that
