I can’t believe I’m doing this. Jovian sat across from Lance with an awkward smile on his face. He could feel himself beginning to sweat. I haven’t been on a first date since my first date with Francine. That was 21 years ago, what am I doing?
“So,” Lance started, avoiding eye contact, “Honestly, I don’t really know what to talk about. I haven’t been on a date in forever.”
“Same here,” Jovian laughed nervously.
They sat and ate silently. Jovian poked at the beef tenderloin on his plate, he was way too nervous to eat. But at the same time he felt bad not eating the expensive food, especially since Lance already planned to pay for their meals. Jovian began to eat small bites of his meal, until Lance tried to create conversation again.
“I know I should be asking you questions about yourself, but the only thing I can think to ask you about is how your daughter is doing,” Lance admitted.
Jovian smiled and looked up at him, “I don’t mind, I’m always happy to talk about my daughter. Tilly’s doing great. She’s very enthusiastic about her interests, which I’m always happy to see. What about you, do you have any kids?”
“Nope. Me and my ex-wife divorced before we could have any kids, so no kids. I do have some cats though. They’re basically my children.”
Jovian laughed, “I have one cat. Tilly named her cheddar.”
Lance grinned at the name, “My cats are also named after foods.”
“So there’s Mango, Pomegranate, and Peach.”
“Mmm fruit,” Jovian smiled at him.
The two of them sat in silence again, but this time less awkwardly. Jovian examined Lance. His face looked as red as Jovian's face felt. He also noticed Lance’s eyes. One was green and the other seemed to be hazel. God, is he pretty.
“Do you like ice cream?” Jovian asked.
“Do you want to go to the ice cream place across the street after this?”
Lance’s face lit up, “Sure!”
After sharing a cup of ice cream, they walked back to the restaurant parking lot. Lance followed Jovian to his car to wish him a good night.
“Thanks for the food, sorry about the awkward start to our date,” Jovian chuckled.
“Don’t worry about it,” Lance smiled.
Jovian opened his car door and got in.
“Wait,” Lance stopped him before he could close the door. He leaned into Jovian’s car a little, “…Can I give you a good night kiss?”
Jovian felt his face go bright red, “Sure.”
Lance had both his hands against the car to keep his balance as he leaned into the car, and pressed his lips to Jovian’s. Jovian started to tense up and left his hands where they were. His heart was quickly beating as he pushed his lips into Lance’s.
“Good night,” Lance said as he pulled away.
“Good night,” Jovian stumbled over his words as he watched him walk to his car. Oh my God.