I hear a slight giggle and wonder if she made me wait on purpose.
"I'll pick you up around eleven in the morning on Saturday," I say with a smile. "And thanks for the opportunity."
"I'll see you then," she hangs up.
I have to make this special. I cannot fuck this up.
Scanning the park around me, I notice that even at this late hour, it’s filled with couples picnicking. Perfect. I'll have something made up for lunch and I’ll bring her here.
Later that night, a thought occurs to me.
What if I brought a small circus to her? Others would enjoy it, too.
I almost feel like patting myself on the back. This is a good idea.
The next day, I make a couple of calls. Satisfied that the proper arrangements have been made, I rest. Now all I can do is wait.
I can barely sleep because of the excitement hidden in my chest. In about six hours, she will be with me for the remainder of the day. I’m hoping beyond hope to please her with what subtleties I have obtained.
I just want her to relax and see how romantic I really am.
After showering and choosing a pair of khaki pants and a blue plaid button down, I run by the bistro and pick up the picnic supplies. I head straight to her place, and she is already outside waiting for me.
She’s wearing a strapless summer dress with cherries on it, and a wide-brimmed hat. Across her face is a beautiful grin. She hops in the front seat next to me.
"Where are we off to?"
"It's a surprise." I wiggle my eyebrows, and away we go.
When we get to the park, I spread the red and white checked blanket on the ground under the willow tree and help her sit down.
Pouring her a glass of white wine, I hand it to her and set out the sandwiches and fruit from the bistro. I then pour myself a glass, and we toast.
"To what is hopefully a new beginning,” I say with a wink.
We clink our glasses together and sip.
"This is a wonderful idea, James. I haven't been on a picnic since I was a little girl."
Score.I beam a smile in her direction.
After eating and drinking, I clean up the picnic and carry it back to my car while she puts her sandals back on her feet. I offer her my arm, and we head down the path around the lake.
Once we clear a glen of trees, a calliope begins to play, and children run in from all directions. I look at Alexa, and she’s laughing at the irony of parents scolding their kids for running off to the circus.
Her laugh is contagious, and I join in, putting my arm around her waist. We walk to the outskirts of the circus and watch the clowns do cartwheels and make balloon animals.
Inside of the small makeshift tent, a white horse runs a circle while a monkey in a skirt does tricks on its back. An audience sits around pointing and laughing at the little dance it does.
Outside, I get her a bag of peanuts and some bread to feed the ducks. As I turn to hand them to her, she gives me a kiss.
"This day has been perfect."
Her smile says more than words could convey.
Beat this, Mattheo.