AN:

Happy Monday!

Sorry for the lack of updates over the past few days. Real life gets in the way sometimes.

Thank you so much for all you reviews so far, I really appreciate them.

The screen of my laptop glowed brightly in the dark room, but Ben was fast asleep, so instead of giving in to exhaustion, I continued on with my research.

Google quickly became my new best friend, though the myriad of conflicting information rapidly gave me a headache that I couldn't shake.

Notebook perched beside me on my bed, I scribbled notes, trying to use common sense, even though my scientific brain begged and prayed for facts.

There are no facts when it comes to flirtation and seduction, just articles, blogs, and message sites full of varying opinions.

It wasn't promising.

But one thing stood out: the most popular route to seducing the girl you're interested in was dating.

Because of course.

I cursed myself for being so caught up in my own journey of self-discovery that I skipped the obvious.

Taking a deep breath, I reached over and snatched my phone from the scattered desk by my bed, and wasted no time texting Bella. There was no time like the present, right? Fingers rapid, breath held, I sent the text before I gave myself the chance to chicken out.

Can I take you on a date?

Time seemed to stall as I waited, my heart thudding against my chest. When her reply arrived, I scrunched my eyes closed as I unlocked my phone and opened her text. Blinking slowly, I read her words.

Anytime.

Her little winking emoji made me smile wide, despite my nerves.

Tomorrow?

Her reply was instantaneous: Name the place, I'll be there.

Shit. I had no idea. I hadn't really thought that far ahead. I text Rose, asking for ideas, and set to work, planning and preparing myself—mentally—for tomorrow.

For some reason, I couldn't imagine Bella in a high-end restaurant, eating caviar and sipping expensive wine. I knew her tastes were a lot more down to earth, and I loved that about her—knowing that there was nothing outwardly flashy or false about her intentions. My mom always warned me about the women who would feign interest in me because of my name, and the family money, but I knew I didn't need to worry about that with Bella.

It was a relief.

I lay on my bed, staring at the ceiling, laptop discarded and still displaying Google results for "wooing women."

This was more exhausting than med school, and I began to understand why my parents were pushing me toward Kate as a means to stay on track and focused through college, and giving me the ability to bypass this dating-induced headache afterward.

Finally it all made sense.

AN:

As always, Mel is the best!

Thanks for reading!