CHAPTER 10
Madison marveled at the twinkling, white lights encircling many of the marble columns. “I feel like I’m in an enchanted forest.”
Adam smiled. “How about an enchanted hotel?”
She bobbed her head. “Definitely.”
Adam held her hand as they passed a bongo drummer playing, what else, Little Drummer Boy. A crowd gathered around him in one section of the room near a towering Christmas tree and giant burgundy, green, blue, gold, and silver presents.
He pointed out the executive business center complete with counters and charging centers for laptops. “This is a popular area, as you might imagine.”
Nodding, Madison said, “Everyone is plugged in these days. Good thinking.”
They continued along a modern black, gold, and silver rug covered in interlocking circles, which Adam pointed out, led toward the guest hallways and conference areas.
“I smell chlorine,” Madison said.
“Wait until you see this pool.” Adam led her down another hallway and motioned toward a peanut-shaped pool.
“That’s really cool.”
Adam pointed toward the hot tub. “I could jump in there right now. Doesn’t it look relaxing?”
Madison’s mind wandered. I bet he looks great without a shirt. Why is my mind going there? This is our first date. She did her best to avoid stepping on the slick, wet concrete as Adam led her back around yet another corner.
He pointed toward a restaurant called Decelerate where a tanned, gorgeous twenty-something hostess stood at a station taking guests’ names. “We’ll eat here. The food is delicious, and the ambiance is soothing, especially during this hectic time of year.”
“I love the name.” Madison peered at the mural on the walls and ceiling which had a Colosseum-like flair. “Your attention to detail is incredible. I’d have to come here several times to take it all in.”
“Good. That’s my plan.” He winked. “Are you hungry or do you want to continue the tour?”
“I’m starving.”
Adam stepped toward the podium and greeted the hostess. “Two for dinner.”
“Sure Mr. Donovan. Follow me. Your favorite table is available.”
The hostess seated them in a perfect corner booth overlooking the striking Redbud Canyon skyline surrounded by a few skyscrapers, trees, hills, and canyons. After handing them brown leather menus and a wine list, the hostess said, “Your server will be right with you.”
Madison was glad she had worn the red dress. The hotel and restaurant were upscale and likely didn’t exactly feature her weekly tuna casserole fare. The Redbud Canyon Hotel was also somewhere her ex never would have taken her.
She glanced out the window. “The view is breathtaking. I love the cityscape combined with nature.”
Adam grinned. “I hoped you’d notice. We stood on this very spot and took multiple photos at every angle to capture the skyline.” He studied the wine list. “Would you like more wine?”
Madison knew she shouldn’t. Sometimes alcohol made her clothes come off. She didn’t want to spoil the evening—or maybe she’d make the evening. After hesitating, she said, “Yes, please.”
Adam waved the server over and ordered two more glasses of wine. He peered at the menu. “What do you enjoy eating?”
“Anything and everything. I’m not picky.”
“I’m glad to hear that. I recommend the lobster, steak, or salmon. I’ve had all three and they’re delicious.” He put his napkin in his lap and Madison followed suit.
She studied the menu and huge variety of entrees. “Salmon sounds delicious.”
“I think I’ll have steak.”
After they ordered, they made small talk. Adam asked about Betsy’s school, her favorite activities, likes, and dislikes. Madison was more than happy to discuss her greatest accomplishment. That’s how she always referred to sweet Betsy.
When she finished, Adam said, “I can tell you’re a wonderful mother. Betsy is lucky to have you.”
Madison smiled. “I’m lucky to have her.”
A server delivered their food and Madison ate ravenously.
With his fork in mid-air, Adam asked, “Have you eaten all day?”
Madison shook her head. “Not much. I guess I forgot. I always feed Betsy, though. I’m watching my pen-” She stopped herself from sounding like a total loser to this successful architect. “I need to get some food in my stomach. I’m feeling a bit woozy from the wine.”
Smiling mischievously, Adam said, “The alcohol might loosen you up a bit. Not that I want to take advantage of you—yet.”
Madison grinned. “Not that I want to be taken advantage of—yet.”
“Touché.” Adam’s eyes crinkled.
After they finished their meal, Adam ordered coffee for both of them. “Want to share a piece of pie?”
Madison laughed. “I’d have to smear it on me.”
He cocked an eyebrow. “That could happen.”
She giggled. “It’s a little soon for that and the texture wouldn’t be the best.”
He laughed. “I agree.” He closed the dessert menu. “I’m ordering pecan pie. It’s my favorite.”
“Maybe I can force one bite.”
The server reappeared with a giant slice of pie covered in whipped topping. She placed two fresh forks at the edge of the plate and topped off their coffee. “Enjoy.”
Adam thanked her and turned toward Madison. “You get the first bite.” He stabbed the pie with his fork, carved off a huge piece, and placed the fork inside Madison’s mouth. Whipped topping landed on her cheek. He leaned across the table and wiped it with his thumb.
Shockwaves went through her. It had been a long time since a man had touched her. A very long time. And a charming, wonderful man like this, to boot? She had never attracted this type of guy, let alone one with a gentle, sweet side. Madison stayed firm, though. She wasn’t about to get her hopes up nor have a broken heart on top of losing a job. Things like this didn’t happen to her. She dabbed at her face with a napkin. “That pie’s delicious.”
“Want another bite? I, uh, devoured it.” He laughed. “We can get another slice. I can never get enough pecan pie.”
“No, I’m stuffed. But thank you.” Madison placed her hands in her lap wondering how the rest of the evening would go. She couldn’t imagine how it would get much better . . . unless he kissed her. She fought a sudden urge to leap across the table and kiss Adam. What’s gotten into me?