Read Online Hunting Human by Amanda E. Alvarez - Free Book Online Page B

tapered waist and a tan combined to present an image that stated he was right at home sailing, hiking or trail running. Self-conscious awareness prickled across her skin, even as a powerful thrill, entirely feminine, raced through her. For tonight, his attention seemed focused exclusively on her.
    As they followed the hostess through the restaurant, Beth tried to soak in every visual detail. Square tables covered the floor of the main dining room, each one dressed with perfectly pressed white linens and a small vase of fresh flowers. Chandeliers bathed the dining room with a warm, low light that set the silver gleaming. They wound their way toward the back of the restaurant and along the far wall, stopping at a small square table near the corner. Before she could pull out her chair, Braden’s hand covered hers, gently maneuvering her aside to pull out the chair for her, before taking his own.
    “Your server should be with you shortly. Enjoy your evening.” Beth barely noticed as their hostess retreated, too caught up in the splendor of the evening.
    “I love the atmosphere here and their steaks are amazing,” Braden said.
    A waiter stopped at their table, snapping starched white napkins open and placing them in their laps.
    “It’s beautiful, but I wasn’t expecting something so extravagant.” Beth placed her hands in her lap to keep from toying with the silverware. “I would have been happy with one of the chain restaurants.”
    Braden grinned, though whether it was at her, or at the waiter’s scandalized expression, she wasn’t sure.
    “Good evening, my name is Carlos. I’ll be your sommelier this evening. May I get you started with something to drink, a bottle of wine perhaps?”
    “Do you have a preference?” Braden asked Beth.
    “What?” It took her a moment to catch his meaning. “Oh, no. A red, I guess?” Red went with steak, right? God, could she feel like a bigger idiot? Somewhere between the potency of Braden’s kiss and the elegance of the steak house, she felt as if she’d stepped into another reality.
    Beth forced herself to take a couple of bracing breaths while Braden and the sommelier discussed the available wines. She was determined to get her nerves under control and enjoy the evening. One way or another.
    An hour and a half later, warmth infused Beth’s face and her cheeks ached from a wine-induced smile. She didn’t care. They’d torn their way through half a bottle of wine before the food started to arrive. The relaxed state she’d failed to achieve on her own had been readily supplied by the wine. By the time appetizers arrived, they’d been actively engaged in conversation.
    “Might I interest you in a dessert menu?” The waiter offered.
    “What do you think?” Braden glanced at her from across the table. “Did you save room for dessert.”
    “Absolutely not.” And wasn’t that the truth? She was one bite away from having to be rolled out the door.
    “Are you certain? We have an amazing bananas Foster and a fabulous six-layer chocolate mousse cake garnished with a delicate raspberry sauce.”
    “The chocolate cake here is really good.” Braden’s grin was wicked and Beth couldn’t help but laugh. How many times had she smiled and laughed during the meal? More than she could have believed possible.
    “Maybe next time.”
    “Very well,” The waiter pulled a black bill holder out of his apron and placed it in front of Braden. “Whenever you’re ready, sir.”
    After they’d settled the check, they made their way to the front of the restaurant.
    “Did you park at Angie’s?” Braden held the door for her as they moved out of the restaurant.
    “No. I’m at one of the public lots a few blocks over.” A wall of cool night air hit her as she exited the warmth of the restaurant. The sidewalk did a quick roll in front of her, confirming she’d had a little more wine than intended.
    “Then I’ll walk you back to your car, if you’re sure I can’t talk you into