Jane sped through downtown Boston trying to get to her apartment as quickly as possible after making a stop at a local store to buy a case of beer and a bottle of tequila. How had she managed to mess up tonight? She had planned it all out. She was even going to try to play nice with that Kate woman to please Maura. She was going to enjoy the night, then drive Maura back home and try again. She needed to have Maura in her life, that wasn't an option. She was willing to do anything to have their old friendship back and she was going to make her case tonight… except everything derailed. Now Maura was spending time with that woman and God knew what else… yep, she was definitely glad she'd added tequila to the mix. It was going to be a long night.
The week passed slowly. Maura continued her work with Kate and the foundation, with Kate helping her less and less. She was sure she said, that Maura would be able to handle the post of CEO in her parents' absence with ease and so she began to back down. They still had lunch together and prepped for and attended meetings together. They had set their date for the Saturday after the fundraiser and it was approaching slowly, but surely.
Jane hadn't made an attempt to contact Maura during the week, which was something that worried the blonde. Part of her wanted to respect Jane's space, while the other wanted to contact her badly to make sure she was alright. In order to give Jane her space, she talked to Angela and knew through her that while she wasn't in the best of moods, she was alright.
She debated long and hard whether she should tell Jane about this new development in her life. She hadn't lied at the benefit; she and Kate weren't dating at the time… they still hadn't gone on their date. But Maura felt as if she was betraying Jane's trust, even though there was nothing but a single date coming up. She decided after much thought that she would tell Jane if something came out of that date.
Kate had told her the date was a bit of a surprise but that she should dress casual, knowing by now that Maura's version of 'casual' was anything but. Saturday night came and with it a knock to Maura's door.
Maura hurried down the stairs and to the front door.
"Kate! Come in, I'm ready; I just need to grab my shoes. I didn't want to keep you waiting at the door."
"Don't rush, we have all night. Here, these are for you," she said as she held out a bouquet of lilies.
"Oh my, these are beautiful. You remembered!"
"That they're your favorite flower? Of course I did. Besides, I think roses are too over—"
"—rated." Both women shared a smile. "I happen to agree with you. Let me put these in some water and grab my shoes so we can head out."
Maura quickly headed up the stairs and into the master bedroom. She had already picked out the pair of shoes she'd be wearing so that didn't take any time at all. After a quick look in the mirror, she headed back down the stairs.
"You look stunning tonight. Well, not just tonight, you always look impeccable. You've a great taste in clothes."
"I didn't overdo it, did I? When you said casual…"
"I know what 'casual' means to you by now Maura. You're perfect."
Maura smiled. "You look quite stylish yourself."
"Thank you. Shall we leave?"
"Yes, let's."
Kate held out her arm and Maura linked their arms together.
"No Pete tonight, huh?"
"Nope, this time I'm driving us," replied Kate.
"Do you mind telling me where we're going? I've been wondering all week."
"Well, now that we're in the car, I guess it's safe to tell you. Do you remember that French restaurant you mentioned a couple of weeks back?"
"You got us into 'L'Etoile? How did you manage that? They're booked for weeks!"
"I called in a little favor."
"I'm so excited! I've wanted to try that restaurant since I told you about it!"
"I know. I hope it lives up to the hype."
They arrived at the restaurant a short drive later. Kate handed her keys to the valet and waved him off when he went to open Maura's door, opting instead to do it herself.
"Mademoiselle," she said as she held out her hand.
"Merci," Maura said with a smile.
"De rien," replied Kate.
"You speak French?" Maura asked.
"Enough to get by; Constance has also taught me a bit as we've worked together."
"Aren't you full of surprises."
"You'll just have to find out."
They made their way to the hostess stand.
"Reservation for Maguire," Kate stated when they reached the hostess.
"Oui mademoiselle. Follow me please."
They were led to an intimately lit corner of the restaurant. A bottle of champagne chilled on ice awaited them. The waiter quickly helped them be seated and poured them a glass of champagne. Once they'd ordered their meal, they were left alone.
"I wasn't aware this restaurant had a dance floor," Maura stated as she watched other patrons spin around the dance floor in step with the music playing.
"Would you like to join me for a dance?"
"I'd love to."
They joined hands and walked towards the dance floor and began swaying to the beat. Maura's dress twirled around her as Kate spun her expertly. They danced in perfect synchronization, enjoying the ambiance and the music.
"You dance perfectly. Where did you learn, may I ask?" Maura asked her dancing partner.
"I was forced to take dancing lessons as a child though I secretly enjoyed them," Kate replied with a smile. I learned a lot of different types of styles. I'd love to get to show you some time."
"I think I would enjoy that very much."
The piece they were dancing came to an end and they retreated to their table. Dinner was served shortly after.
"My, this was certainly worth the wait. This food is exquisite!" Maura replied.
"I have to agree with you, it's absolutely marvelous."
They enjoyed the rest of their dinner in companionable conversation. They talked about their lives growing up and how they'd both attended boarding schools. Maura spoke of her passion for science and was pleasantly surprised to see that Kate was able to keep up with her in conversation, giving input and opinions when appropriate. In turn, Kate spoke of her passion for history and Maura was able to show just how wide her range of knowledge was with her comments as well.
"Thank you for a wonderful night," Maura said with a smile as they made their way up the steps to her door. "I had an amazing time."
"I had a great time as well. Do you think I can take you out again sometime soon?" Kate asked as Maura reached the door.
Maura smiled. "Yes, I think I would enjoy that very much. Did you want to come in for a glass of wine?"
Kate shook her head. "I'm going to call it an end to a perfect first date. I'd love to join you for wine Maura, but I want to take this slowly. Perhaps next time."
"Next time then," Maura agreed.
"There is one thing…"
"Yes?"
"May I kiss you goodnight?"
Maura thought for a split second before closing the gap between them and kissing Kate softly on the lips. "Thank you, for giving me tonight, for giving me time and not pushing me into anything."
Kate brought Maura's hand she was holding up to her lips and kissed it. "I'm in no rush Maura. We can take this at whatever pace you want. Good night."
Maura smiled again. "Good night Kate." She stayed by the door still with a smile on her face until she saw Kate get in the car and drive away.
What neither woman saw was Jane by the guest house, tears streaming down her cheeks and feeling her world collapse around her.
So we're here! Is Jane going to confront Maura, or will she give Maura the opportunity to come clean? I know I said before that I can't please everyone since you are all asking for different outcomes. I am thankful for those of you reading the story and even more so for those that are taking the time to review. I know the Maura and someone else together then breakup and her and Jane together has been done before... this is not what this will be. I'm planning on something a little different. I haven't read every story on here but I know I haven't read what I'm planning on writing. If there is any similarity to the point of plagiarism with another writer then please someone bring it to my attention and I will address it at that time. Though Jane will play a secondary role for a good chunk of this story, there will be eventual rizzles. That said, I hope you stick with it. I'd love to read some more of what you all have to say!
