Whether it’s arts or music, or enjoying the night life…New York has something for everyone.”
“I’m sure I’ll love it.”
“Well, there are some things you absolutely must see during your visit. Central Park is a virtual playground of fun, with the zoo and the botanical gardens. It might be a little chilly this time of year, but on a sunny day, there’s nothing better than a walk through the park.”
“That sounds fun, but I’ve heard bad things about it when the sun goes down.”
“Well, that’s probably true about most big cities. But New York is a great place, even at night. You might want to view a Broadway show, visit Times’ Square, the Empire State Building…the list goes on and on.”
Nigel continued to tell her different attractions in the city she might want to see. She felt the enthusiasm and love he had for the city he lived in. When he spoke about the Twin Towers Memorial, she put a big check mark next to that particular place. She’d been in middle school when the terrorist attacks had occurred, but she still remembered the feeling that the world had changed.
Clara was absorbed in her thoughts about the places she wanted to see when the receptionist approached to tell them the flight was now ready to board. She looked down at her watch and couldn’t believe how fast time had gone by! Three hours had flown by as we talked!
Nigel helped her into her jacket and asked, “May I have your phone number? I’d love to see you again.”
Clara blushed at the look on his face and realized they’d never even discussed their relationship status. G uess, he’s not married or dating someone!
“Sure,” she said, placing her phone into his hand. Nigel deftly sent himself a text message from her phone and then handed it back. He answered his own text, sending a reply to her phone, ensuring that they both had each other’s numbers. He uses an iPhone as well. She wasn’t sure why that thought was so encouraging, but it was nice to see that they had even more in common.
“Sir, they’re ready to board first class now,” the receptionist, reminded him.
Nigel nodded, “That’s me.” They exited the VIP lounge, heading back towards the gate that would take them one step closer to New York City.
Clara stopped at the edge of the waiting area and smiled when Nigel nodded at her and then headed down the ramp towards the plane. He has my number, but I won’t be disappointed if he doesn’t call.
Chapter 4
Nigel took his seat in first class, accepting the glass of champagne from the stewardess with a smile. He settled into the soft-as-butter leather seat, his mind fixed on the young woman he’d left standing by the check-in counter. Clara .
She shone with such brightness. Part of her allure was the intense beauty she possessed, a true beauty that emanated from the inside out. And even though she didn’t have a model size figure, she was a million times more beautiful than some of the women touted as being so.
Her smile was genuine and warm. Over the course of their conversation, he had picked up on her enthusiasm for fashion. An enthusiasm that wasn’t overdone, or misused, but was heartfelt.
Her dark brown eyes showed warmth, her vibrant wavy black hair was silky, and he’d caught the faint whiff of lavender as he’d walked next to her. Normally not a smell he’d consider sexy, but the subtle fragrance made him want to bury his head next to her ear and just breathe! And that little dimple in her cheeks when she smiled was something he wouldn’t mind looking at time and again!
He shook his head as he realized he’d fallen for her; hard and fast. It was amazing! He’d bumped right into her and even though she’d shot angry glances at him, because he’d ruined her suit with her coffee, he’d wanted to take her into his arms and kiss her right away. I must be overworked!
He sat there; amazed about himself, because he’d never felt that much attraction for a woman. Yes, he’d