The Apple Of My Eye by Christine McGreggor Read Free Book Online

us. We are going to have a great time. Especially since the satellite service is up and running. Reality TV marathon here I come! Where is he taking you, by the way?”
    “We’re going to The River Bell.” Michelle couldn’t keep the smile off of her face.
    Kara took Michelle’s camel colored wool coat from the closet and handed it to her. “Ooh. Wow, being an arborist must pay better than I thought. That’s the fanciest restaurant in town. Just remember to stay away from the garlic and the fish. That will make the post-dinner make out session more pleasant.”
    Michelle rolled her eyes at her friend’s brazen statement. “You never stop, do you? “
    “If I did, you’d think there was something wrong with me!”
    “You’re right, I would. Thanks Kara, have fun without me.” Michelle went to kiss her friend on the cheek, but Kara waved her off.
    “Oh no you don’t, you’ll smudge your lip gloss. No kissing until he has had a chance to admire my handiwork.” The doorbell chimed, interrupting their conversation. “There he is. You put on your coat, I will get the door.” Kara bounced to the front door while Michelle buttoned up her dress coat.
    “Come on in, Hayes. She’s been waiting for you.” Kara bowed the handsome arborist in the door.
    Kara stepped back out of the way, and Michelle got her first look at Hayes. If she had thought he was handsome in his work clothes, it was nothing compared to him all dressed up. His short chestnut hair was brushed back from his face. He wore a deep navy, wool pea coat, with brown dress pants and shiny, patent leather dress shoes. Now he truly did look as if he had stepped off the pages of a department store advertisement.  The coat accentuated his broad shoulders, and his dress pants drew her eyes to his trim, sculpted legs. She couldn’t help but be thrilled. Her last boyfriend’s idea of dressed up was an unstained shirt and cargo pants. A tiny, breathy sigh escaped Michelle as she caught the fiery look of appreciation glittering in Hayes’ green eyes.
    “You look amazing, Michelle.” Hayes voice had returned to the sexy growl she had heard briefly earlier that afternoon.  He held a leather gloved hand out to her. “Are you ready to go?”
    Michelle favored him with a dazzling smile. “Thank you, you look pretty amazing yourself. Yes I’m ready.” She walked up to him and took his powerful hand in hers. “Bye Kara.”
    “Bye guys. Don’t hurry home on my account.” Kara waved to the couple and watched them walk out into the star strewn night.
    Hayes tucked Michelle's hand into the crook of his arm and led her to where his black sedan was parked, shining under the street lamp. He opened the passenger door for her and carefully helped her sit down, not the easiest task in stilettos and a skirt. Michelle looked around the interior of the car, impressed. The gray interior was clean and uncluttered, the seat warmed by an internal heater. “I like your car.” she told Hayes admiringly.
    “Oh, thanks. Don’t let this fool you. I’m not usually this neat.” He gave her a sassy wink that made her smile, and they were off.
    The River Bell was an expensive fine cuisine restaurant located in Greenville’s historic downtown. Michelle had only been there twice before, once for her twenty first birthday and again when she graduated from college. The restaurant was located in a graceful Victorian brick building. The décor captured the romance of that bygone era. A metallic tin tile ceiling and beautiful, rich woodwork abounded inside. Artisan stained glass panels accented the windows. Guests were seated at linen draped tables lit by tiny candles.
    Michelle looked around the restaurant as they were seated. Since it was a Monday night, the restaurant was not very busy. The table they were seated at felt quite private. She unbuttoned her coat and smiled as Hayes watched her, clearly liking what he was seeing. “I love this restaurant, it’s so pretty. I’ve