One Friday night a few weeks back, Alice made a pitcher of margaritas and convinced Edward he needed Tinder. She swiped right on every girl within a 40-mile radius. Bella was the first girl to swipe right back. They had texted back and forth for several days when Bella asked Edward to join her for dinner.
He arrived at the restaurant right on time. She was waiting near the host stand.
"Hi," she said nervously.
Edward smiled softly, "Hey, it's nice to meet you in person."
The hostess led them to a small table in the far corner of the dining room. "Your server will be right with you." She said.
Edward was so nervous he wiped his sweaty hands on his pant legs. He hoped Bella wouldn't notice his shaking hands holding his menu. She seemed calm and collected, but her stomach was full of butterflies. When she was nervous, she got chatty. She started the conversation by asking Edward about work, his family, and how long he had lived in Forks.
When the conversation hit a lull, they were saved by their waiter. He asked if they would like a starter. Edward looked at Bella.
"The Million Dollar dip? It sounds delicious!" She looked at Edward, and he agreed without looking at the menu.
The food arrived, and it looked amazing. Bella took the first bite. Her eyes rolled back. "So good!" Edward laughed. She pushed the plate toward him. "Try this!" She said.
He dug his crostini into the dip. As soon as he took the bite, he started to panic. "Bella, was this, by chance, a seafood dip?" He asked, his throat starting to itch.
"Yeah, shrimp and crab, I think so. Why? Do you not like seafood?" She asked, looking concerned.
"Highly allergic." He choked out a laugh. His tongue and lips were starting to swell. "My fault. I should have looked at the menu."
"I am calling 9-1-1." Bella tried not to panic as her charming dinner date turned blue.
"Good… plan."
"I am really sorry about dinner Bella." He told her as the EMTs loaded him into the ambulance, before she could respond, the EMTs slammed the doors shut and took off.
Emmett came to pick Edward up once he was discharged from the hospital.
"Well, besides almost dying, how did the date go?" Emmett asked once they were in the car.
"She was cute. I hate that I blew it." Edward said. He knew she would not be calling for a second date.
"You will get 'em next time!" Emmett said, slapping Edward on the shoulder.
Emmett dropped Edward back the restaurant for his car. He was disappointed to be going home alone.
Edward was getting ready for bed when he heard his phone ding. It was Bella. I just wanted to check on you, and make sure you were OK? Do you have plans tomorrow night? You owe me dinner! A heart and smile emoji. He didn't blow it after all.