Chapter 6: Ruby's POV

When Roman picked me up, I did not expect him to arrive in a blacked-out sports car. I also didn't expect him to bring me a bouquet of roses, take me to a five-star restaurant, or show up in an actual suit that he happens to fill out very well. I mean, he mentioned wine, but I didn't expect him to put this much effort into our first date. In the back of my mind, I wonder if he has some sort of ulterior motive here. Maybe he's trying to impress me so he can get into my pants. I thought about it for a moment. Maybe, eventually. The thought made me blush, and I almost had to physically shake it off. I know if Roman caught me blushing, he would tease me about it, which would only cause me to blush more, and I don't need that right now. I honestly almost passed out when he touched my knee in the car. If his hand would have gone any higher, I would have. Eventually, though, I found the touch to be soothing, and I think that's how he intended it to be. The way he rubbed his thumb against it didn't seem sexual.

Breaking me from my thoughts, he grabbed my hand and placed it on the inside of his elbow as he guided me into the restaurant. When we got to the door, he opened it for me, allowing me to go ahead of him. What a gentleman, I thought sarcastically. I could practically feel him looking at my butt. Curse Weiss for picking out this dress. I know I've been guilty of checking him out, but I didn't stare at his butt. "Torchwick, if you don't stop looking at my ass in the next five seconds, I will remove your eyes from your face." I hissed quietly.

He chuckled. "You're cute, Red."

"Stop calling me that, or I will punch you in front of everyone in this restaurant."

His only response to my threat was another chuckle as we arrived at the host stand. "Reservation for two under Torchwick," he told the hostess after she greeted us. She began leading us to our table and Roman put my hand back on his arm. When we arrived at our table, Roman pulled my chair out for me.

"What a gentleman," I remarked sarcastically.

He gave me an innocent smile as he sat down. "I try my best." A bottle of red wine was already on the table, and he poured us both a glass. The sweet scent of it filled my nose, and I cautiously lifted my glass and took a sip. I've never had wine before. Surprisingly, it tasted good.

A few minutes after we look at the menu, a waiter appears and takes our order. After the waiter leaves, I clear my throat. "So… why did you ask me out on a date?"

"Because you're adorable and intriguing. Any other questions, little gem?"

"Nope." I blush and look down at my feet. Am I cute? He keeps saying that.

A few minutes later, our food arrives. We eat with a little bit of conversation and a few minutes later, the waiter drops off our bill. Once we're done eating, Roman sets some Lien down on the table and comes around to my side of the table, offering his hand to help me up. I don't need it, but I accept it with another blush. Gosh, I haven't blushed this hard since my first time reading smut. Roman seems to be trying really hard to impress me, maybe I should stop fighting him on it. "Thank you." He escorts me to the front of the building, and the valet brings his car around. We get in and start the drive back to my apartment. We arrive a few minutes later, and after Roman parks the car, he turns to me.

"Do you kiss on the first date, Red?" He asks with a flirty grin as he leans closer to me.

"Ew, no, you pervert!" My hands shove against his chest and my face turns the shade of a tomato.

He laughs. "I'm only kidding, Red. I just like getting a reaction out of you. Have a good night." He leans toward me again and plants a kiss on my forehead. "I'll see you again soon."

"You better be kidding. Goodnight, Roman. I had fun, regardless of your antics." With that, I open the car door and get out.

–

Later that night, I find myself thinking about Roman Torchwick. I blush at the thought of kissing him. Would it really be so bad? It's just one little kiss, right? It doesn't have to go any further than that.

I give in to my wine-drunk impulse and text him. He responds a few minutes later, I assume when he makes it home.

Ruby: Are you free to grab drinks at Junior's tomorrow night?

Roman: Missing me already? I'm flattered, Red.

Ruby: Maybe I just missed the free drinks.

Roman: Either way, for you, I'm always available. I'll meet you there tomorrow at 9.

Ruby: See you then! Goodnight, Roman.

Roman: Goodnight, little gem. I'll see you tomorrow.