Faye sat on a milk crate in the ally with a sketchbook balanced on her lap. She chewed on a french-fry as she worked on last night's sketch. Her lunch break was nearly up and she groaned upon that realization. The Diner wasn't so bad, but the days dragged on beautiful ones like this. Tucking the sketchbook under her arm, she tossed the boat of fries in the trash and she headed inside.

Glenda, the main waitress was taking an order to a table as she passed by. She set her stuff under the counter and tied the frilly apron across her waist. "A gentleman brought a note for you when you were on your break," Glenda said as she came back with an empty tray in hand. Faye furrowed her brows. "It wasn't that Ace guy was it?" She said fingering the note and unfolding impatiently. "Naw," Glenda said wiping the counter down. "That Chambers kid. Decent kid. Shame about his family though. Got into some trouble himself a few years ago, but I say he's a good kid."

"Who hasn't gotten into a spot of trouble now and then? None of us is perfect" Faye mumbled distractedly. "I guess that's true," Glenda said shaking her head.

But Faye didn't hear her. Her heart was poundings and her cheeks were rosy as she read the note.

"Hey Faye,

Want to grab a bite to eat after work? I'd love to take you out. Pay you back for those sundaes.

Chris"

"How does he know when I get off?" Faye said faking indignation.

Her co worker chuckled as she dried glasses and set them into their rightful places. "Birdy must've told him," Glenda said innocently.

"Birdy in a waitressing uniform I presume?" She said with a laugh.

Glenda put a warm hand on Faye's should. "You should go."

"I've never been on a date before," she said shyly. "If I'd have known, I'd have brought a change of clothes," She said motioning to her uniform.

"Ohhh, it don't matter none. I bet that boy would think you're pretty even if you came covered in mud. I see how he moons at you. I have some make up in my bag if you want to touch up before. Let you off a few minutes early."

Faye folded Glenda into a hug, taking her by surprise. "Thanks Glen!"

The day absolutely dragged on.

At 4:15 sharp, she bolted to the ladies' room. She had 15 minutes to spare before he arrived. She coated her naturally long lashes and a bit of mascara. She threw on some eyeliner and lined her lips in red lipstick. She slipped off her apron and threw her hair up into a ponytail. Looking herself over she decided she was ready.

The door jingled behind her as she slipped outside. It was starting to cool down; it was fixing to be a cool summer night. She looked around before her eyes fell on the familiar Chris Chambers. There was a sack on his arm and flowers in his hands. He looked devastatingly handsome. Even in his standard white t-shirts and jeans. Her chest tightened as she was overcome with nerves. What have I gotten myself into? She thought to herself as he came closer. His locks fell into his face as he stood a few feet infront of her. "Here.. I got you these," he said handing her flowers. They were wildflowers of different colors. The thought of him picking each one by hand, made her smile like a fool as she inhaled deeply. "Chris…These are beautiful. Thank you!" He itched the back of his neck nervously. "Oh you're welcome! I was-I was wondering if you'd like to go out to the lake for dinner?"

She laughed and said, "Sure but how in the world-"

He cut in with, "I know it sounds weird but my friends and I do it all the time. Go out to the lake, cook over the fire and watch the stars. It's really beautiful out there. Or if you want we could go too a proper restaurant or-"

She smiled and put up her hand. "How could I ever refuse dinner under the stars?" With every ounce of courage in her being, she boldly linked her arm. "Which way to the lake?" She said excitedly?

They walked about a half a mile outside of town, exchanging small talk. She was distracted by the scenery as Chris set up the fire. He mumbled a curse word as he fiddled with the matched and kindling. "Why'd you go to all this trouble?" She asked, taking him off guard.

"What do you mean? Ain't any trouble," he said. Finally getting the kindling to light, he blew onto the pile gently and watched the fire spread into the pile of dry sticks. He exhaled with relief.

"I'd like to get to know you. The way you smile. And-and the way you treat everyone in the diner with kindness. No matter how busy you are. You just seem like kinda girl worth getting to know."

She shook her head. "But you hardly know me."

He went over and looked out at the lake with her and brushed his hand against her. "You'd be surprised what you can learn about people when you really pay attention."

She bit her lip and closed her eyes tight.

"What are you doing?" he said with a curious grin.

She laughed and said, "Trying to figure out what I know about you."

He smiled and said, "Any conclusions so far?"

"Well… I know you're very kind. And a gentleman. And well, you've got a good heart." She cracked one of her eyes open and looked up and him. "I know you came to check on me the other day. Thank you, that was real nice."

He gently squeezed her hand. "You didn't deserve that. But anyway…Ya hungry?"

She laughed in spite of herself and nodded. "Very"

The rest of the night went smoother than either of them could've imagine. They were like old friends. Her mom would've called in kindred spirits. With their bellies full and the summer night chill against their skin, they headed back to town. She dreaded every step, as she knew the night was coming to an end. They soon reached her doorstep and he stopped in front of her. "I had a really good time with you, Chris." He grinned and leaned down. She closed her eyes and leaned up. Her heart sank as she felt his lips connect to her forehead. She thought he'd been leaning in for a kiss. Her first kiss. "I'd love to see you again," he lips mumbled against her forehead. She blushed and nodded. "Can I walk you home after work?"

"Of course you can," she said as she smiled. That smile. That smile. That smile. He wished he could've rewound the last five minutes. He meant to go for a kiss, but he panicked and kissed her forehead. He didn't want to be too forward. Besides, he was in no rush. He had all the time in the world to have a chance at her heart.