While Lydia was busy pulling clothes from the closet, Diane rested on her bed. She closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around herself, breathing in profoundly as she considered what was in store for her.

Disillusionment, no doubt, she decided. However, right now, she wanted to pretend she was back in their college years when she was dreaming to date the man everyone admired, the capable John Rivera. And she wanted to make this dream come true tonight. Afterward, this might only end as a dream but, at least, her wish came true for a night.

"Yes! This one," said Lydia as she pulled the blue vintage dress. The bodice and wide skirt were perfect for her friend's figure.

An hour and a half after, the doorbell chimed. Panic set in, and Diane peeked at her phone clock as her heart bounded like a bouncing tennis ball. It had to be John. So soon but on time as she knew he would always come early to any occasion.

She calmed herself and opened the front door and let him inside her home. Lydia's trouble to make Diane look her best was rewarded. John stood there stupefied. The dress gave justice to her slim figure and the color blue brightened her fair skin. Her wavy black hair blended with the dress and gave a velvety feel.

She, too, was astonished after noticing his freshly cut hair. He'd donned a fresh looking cotton yellow s.h.i.+rt and a pair of black crisp black slacks. His face radiated matching his s.h.i.+rt.

She tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. "You didn't say where we're dining," she commented as he helped her out.

"You'll see." He smiled and chuckled. "I managed to get a reservation in short notice." He led her to his car.

"Take care, guys, and enjoy dinner. Don't bring her home early, Doc," Lydia said suggestively.

Lydia's remarks gave John an encouragement. "You have a good friend there."

However, it was the opposite effect on Diane. She glared at Lydia. The latter laughed it out and locked the gate.

"She's a good friend, indeed," she admitted. She couldn't find anyone like her. The only friend she ever had and been with her through thick and thin.

John drove all the way uptown and parked in front of a Thai Restaurant. They were ushered to a secluded room. They removed their shoes and were seated at a low-lying table, the seats padded with large embroidered pillows. The attendant, a thin young lady, filled the exotic china teacups with the fragrant Thai tea and left them for themselves. They could hear slow Thai music playing on the background.

The two seemed calmed externally but a bit nervous internally. John was nervous because this was something he wished for years and it was happening now. He wanted to make this date perfect, if possible.

Diane was rigid. Firstly, because she was with John and her heart was now doubting her emotions. Would she give love another chance? Also, because of that kiss. Receiving that kiss had been a thousand times more exhilarating, and no doubt a thousand times more dangerous. She would never forget that lurid, stimulating embrace in the hotel's hallway.

Now, they were enclosed in this dim room with a romantic ambiance. There was this cool aura encompa.s.sing him, in a way, attracted her to him and bidding her wary respect. Having this sensational experience with John broadened her opinion about him and understood the other women insinuating him. So, this was how it felt to be dating John Rivera.

"I hope you find Thai food to your liking," said John, trying to start the conversation and to evaporate the stuffy air between them.

Their eyes met and held, and an incomprehensible feeling sparked between them, as though, it was filled with incredible meaning.

"It's my favorite," said Diane, a bit uneasy but grateful to John. As she recalled, no matter how long Dennis dated her or even about to marry her, had not known Thai food was her favorite. However, this man brought her here on the first date.

He actually knew it and planned this date exactly for her, to bring her closer to him.

The food he pre-ordered arrived and laid on the table. Diane took in a deep breath when she saw them. Everything laid were her choices if she was given the menu. Her eyes danced with pleasure and elation.