Chapter 2

Emily woke up the next morning feeling refreshed and invigorated. For once, she actually looked forward to starting her day instead of dreading every minute of it. Her mind kept drifting back to Jack, remembering the way he held her close during their last date and the way he kissed her passionately underneath the stars. It had been the perfect evening and she couldn’t help but wonder what the night ahead would hold for them.

As she got dressed, she tried to ignore the naysayers in her head telling her that she was making a big mistake by getting involved with someone so much older than her. Sure, there might be some obstacles along the way, but wasn’t love worth fighting for? Besides, she reminded herself, age was just a number. If two people were meant to be together, nothing should stand in their way. Not even a 15-year age gap.

By the time she arrived at work, Emily was feeling more confident than ever. She greeted her coworkers with a bright smile and bounced into her office, eager to start the day. Even though she loved working at the local library, it never hurt to mix things up a bit. Today, she decided to wear one of her short skirts and a low cut top, hoping to catch Jack’s eye when he picked her up later that afternoon.

As the hours passed by, Emily lost track of time as she helped customers find books and answered questions about various topics. When she glanced at the clock on the wall, she realized with a start that it was already three o’clock. She hurried outside, scanning the parking lot for signs of Jack’s silver car. Finally, she spotted it parked near the entrance and rushed towards it, feeling her heart beat faster with each step she took.

Jack opened the door for her as soon as she approached, smiling warmly at her. “Good afternoon, beautiful,” he said, leaning in to kiss her cheek. His cologne filled her nostrils, sending tingles down her spine.

“Hi,” she murmured shyly, stepping inside the car. She fastened her seat belt and settled comfortably into the leather seats. “So where are we going tonight?” She asked, trying to hide her excitement.

Jack reached over and took her hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze. “How about we go somewhere a little more romantic this time? Someplace where we can eat and maybe have a bottle of wine?” He suggested, his voice husky with desire.

Emily’s pulse quickened at the thought of being alone with him again. “Sounds great!” She agreed enthusiastically.

They drove in silence for a few minutes, neither one speaking as they enjoyed the scenery passing by. Eventually, Jack pulled onto a small road leading into the countryside and followed it until they reached a quaint little restaurant nestled amongst the trees. The building itself was old, with a wraparound porch and a cozy fireplace inside.

As soon as they walked in, the hostess led them to a private booth in the corner and handed them menus. Emily gazed around appreciatively, noticing the rustic decor and the soft lighting casting a warm glow throughout the room. It was the perfect place for a romantic dinner, she thought happily.

Once they had placed their orders, Jack reached across the table and took her hand in his again. “Thank you for coming with me today, Emily. I know it’s not easy for you, given the age difference and all.” He said sincerely.

She smiled at him, brushing aside his concerns. “Why does that matter? As long as we’re happy together, who cares what anyone else thinks?” She replied firmly.

Jack returned her smile, his eyes sparkling with affection. “Exactly. And I promise you, sweetheart, that I will always put your happiness above everything else.” He vowed, squeezing her hand gently.

The rest of the evening passed by in a whirlwind of conversation, laughter, and dancing. They stayed until closing time, reluctant to leave each other’s side. As they drove home, Emily felt content and fulfilled in ways she hadn’t experienced in a very long time. She knew that she had found something rare and precious in Jack - a love that transcended age, status, and social norms. And she intended to cherish every moment of it.