radicalducati Chapter 235
Chapter 235
For the past week, Avery had found herself smiling more than she had in months. It was subtle at first—a grin she couldn’t quite suppress after reading one of Ryan’s witty texts, or a warm flutter in her chest when his name popped up on her screen. Their conversations had ranged from light banter about their favorite foods to surprisingly deep discussions about life, family, and the challenges they had both faced.
She couldn’t deny it anymore: Ryan was becoming a presence in her life that she hadn’t expected.
Her phone buzzed as she was getting ready for the day, and she glanced at the message with a growing sense of anticipation.
Ryan: Still up for lunch today? I promise the place I picked is worth it.
Avery smiled, typing back quickly.
Avery: As long as there’s coffee involved, I’m in.
Ryan: Oh, there will be. And dessert too, if you play your cards right.
She laughed softly to herself, shaking her head as she put on a simple but elegant sundress. It was a beautiful day, and she felt strangely excited about spending it with Ryan.
Ryan was waiting outside the restaurant when Avery arrived. It was a charming little spot with outdoor seating, potted plants lining the entrance, and soft jazz music playing in the background. He was dressed casually in a light blue button-up shirt and dark jeans, his hazel eyes lighting up when he saw her.
“Hey,” he said, stepping forward with a smile. “You look great.”
“Thanks,” Avery said, feeling a slight warmth in her cheeks. “This place is adorable. How did you find it?”
“I have my sources,” Ryan said with a wink. “Let’s grab a seat.”
They were led to a cozy table near the window, the sunlight streaming in and casting a golden glow over everything. The menu was full of fresh, seasonal options, and Avery felt a pang of indecision as she scanned the dishes.
“What are you thinking?” Ryan asked, leaning back in his chair with an easy smile.
“I have no idea,” Avery admitted, laughing. “Everything looks amazing.”
Ryan smirked. “Let me guess—you’re the type to take twenty minutes to decide, aren’t you?”
“Excuse me,” Avery said, raising an eyebrow. “I prefer to call it being thorough.”
Ryan laughed. “Thorough, huh? Alright, well, let me make it easier for you. Their grilled chicken avocado sandwich is incredible. But if you’re feeling fancy, the crab cakes are supposed to be the best in town.”
“I’ll take your word for it,” Avery said. “Chicken sandwich it is.”
“Excellent choice,” Ryan said, signaling the waiter.
As they waited for their food, the conversation flowed effortlessly.
“So,” Ryan began, resting his chin on his hand. “What’s one thing no one would guess about you?”
Avery tilted her head, considering the question. “Hmm… I’m an expert at solving jigsaw puzzles. Like, thousand-piece puzzles? I can finish them in a day.”
Ryan raised an eyebrow, impressed. “Okay, that’s both impressive and mildly intimidating. I don’t think I’ve ever finished one in my life.”
“Sounds like you’re missing out,” Avery teased. “Your turn. What’s something I wouldn’t guess about you?”
Ryan grinned. “I can play the guitar. Badly. But I can play it.”
Avery’s eyes widened. “Seriously? How badly are we talking?”
“Let’s just say I know three chords, and my dog used to leave the room when I practiced,” Ryan said, laughing.
Avery laughed, shaking her head. “That’s tragic. Maybe you should stick to salads and charming your way through life.”
“Duly noted,” Ryan said, holding up his hands in mock surrender.
Their food arrived shortly after, and Avery couldn’t help but let out a satisfied sigh as she took her first bite of the chicken sandwich. It was perfectly toasted, with tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a tangy aioli that tied everything together.
“This is amazing,” she said, looking at Ryan.
“See?” Ryan said, taking a bite of his own sandwich. “Told you. I have good taste—in food, at least.”
Avery rolled her eyes but smiled. “Alright, I’ll give you that one.”