Don picked up his phone and dialed Melissa's number, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness. It wasn't just a casual lunch; it felt like a bridge he was building. The call connected, and Melissa's voice came through clear and bright.
"Hi, Don! How is it going with you?" she greeted, her tone cheerful and inviting.
"Fine, thank you! I'm really sorry I couldn't keep my promise about breakfast," Don replied, trying to keep his tone light. "But what do you think about lunch with your sister too?"
"That would be nice! Let's set it for 2 PM. I'll be coming with my sister—just text me the address," Melissa said with enthusiasm.
"Okay, thanks a lot for considering it! I'll send you the address now. Please send my regards to your beautiful sister!" Don added, feeling a little flustered at his own words.
The conversation wrapped up, and both hung up. As Mia listened from the other room, she narrowed her eyes in curiosity. "Who is the beautiful sister?" she asked playfully.
"You, of course! It's Don offering to take us out for lunch," Melissa shot back, a grin spreading across her face.
Later that day, Don headed to Leo's office to let him know about the lunch plans. Leo was tied up with work, but he paused to listen to Don's news.
"Which girls?" he inquired, raising an eyebrow.
"Melissa and her sister," Don replied. "I want to make it up to them for taking care of you the other night."
Leo felt a rush of embarrassment from that night, memories flashing through his mind like a slideshow. "I can't make it today, though. Send my regards to the girls," he said, brushing off Don's attempts to persuade him to join.
Disappointed yet understanding, Don didn't press further. "Alright, if you say so," he relented, knowing Leo would stand firm on his decision.
Just before 2 PM, Mia knocked on Melissa's door, peeking inside. "Sis, are you done dressing up? We don't want the young men waiting!" she teased.
"I'm sorry, dear! I won't be going with you. I just got a call from the office. They need me to submit some documents," Melissa said, hurriedly packing her things.
"What? But we were all set for lunch together!" Mia protested.
"I know, but I'll send you the address. Please send my regards to the boys!" Melissa hurriedly reassured her as she dashed out, leaving Mia bewildered and confused.
Mia arrived at the restaurant, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. As she approached the entrance, she heard a familiar voice calling her name. "Mia! Mia!" Turning around, she saw Don striding toward her, looking handsome and genuinely pleased to see her.
"Why are you here alone?" he asked, a smile spreading across his face.
"You're here too? I thought we were having lunch with you and Leo!" Mia replied, surprised.
"Yeah, they both bailed at the last minute!" Don said, sharing her disbelief.
They both laughed at the coincidence and agreed to sit down together for lunch. Conversation flourished between them, flowing effortlessly as they discussed their lives, interests, and dreams. They discovered shared passions and complementary values that made the time spent together feel easy and enjoyable.
After finishing their meals, Don couldn't help but suggest they go watch a movie that had recently premiered. Excited by the idea, Mia eagerly nodded in approval.
Once the two entered the cinema, the atmosphere shifted as they settled into their seats. They shared playful banter and comments throughout the film, laughing at the same silly moments and sharing quips during the more serious scenes. Mia stole glances at Don as he laughed, feeling a rush of happiness at their growing connection.
As the end credits rolled, they couldn't immediately decide to leave, lingering in their seats to discuss the various parts that made them laugh. Mia felt a spark of something more than friendship blossoming between them.
Walking out of the theater, the warmth of the sun enveloped them. Both felt fulfilled by their time together, and Mia reflected on how much she enjoyed Don's company. As they exchanged numbers and arranged to meet again soon, their hearts raced in anticipation.
Over the following weeks, they kept the momentum going, texting frequently and arranging more outings. From casual dinners to spontaneous adventures, their relationship developed, evolving into something deeper.