You’d be surprised what a husband and wife can accomplish when they work together as a team. My parents showed me that.”
Monica had to agree with him. She’d seen it first-hand. When her mother had married Michael, Taye Bennett not only got a great husband, but also a wonderful partner. She knew her mother hadn’t intended to have any more children, but she hadn’t blinked an eye when Michael told her he wanted one. It had seemed like the most perfect thing in the world—to have a child created from their love.
Monica glanced out the window when the car came to a stop outside a huge building with lights blinking the name Crystals.
“Looks like we’re here,” Landon said.
Yes, they were. Moments later Monica took Landon’s hand as he helped her out of the car, thinking how much she had enjoyed their conversation. Landon gave the driver instructions to be back in two hours, then they headed into the restaurant where a hostess greeted them and showed them to their table.
Monica glanced around and was glad Landon had thought to make reservations. The place was crowded, which meant it was a popular eating establishment. Huge crystal chandeliers hung from the ceilings and in the middle of the room sat a floor-to-ceiling Christmas tree made of crystals. It had to be one of the most beautiful trees she had ever seen. And lit candles in crystal vases shaped like Christmas ornaments had been placed on every table.
“This place is incredible, Landon. It really puts you in the Christmas spirit, although I’ve heard that most Australians like celebrating Christmas in July.”
“I’m glad you like it. But I can’t take all the credit. It happened to be number one on Zoe’s list.”
She nodded. From what he’d told her about his sister, Zoe Chestnut sounded like she was a lot of fun to be around, just the kind of person Monica would love getting to know and hanging out with. However, she couldn’t ever see that happening since she and Landon would be parting ways after the cruise.
At that moment, the waitress came over with menus and took their drink orders. After she left, they looked over the menu. “Everything looks delicious. Did Zoe provide any recommendations about what we should try?” Monica asked.
He chuckled. “No, I guess we’re on our own there.”
After discussing all the entrees listed, they both decided on roast duck with potatoes and beans. They’d just closed their menus when their waitress returned with their drinks and to take their order.
When she walked off, Landon looked back at Monica. “Earlier, during the car ride, you said that usually your dates didn’t begin or end well. I didn’t ask about the reasons at the time, but I was wondering if you’d like to share them with me now. My curiosity is killing me.”
She stared into his dark brown eyes, already inclined to share just about anything with him. “There are a lot of losers out there. You wouldn’t believe how hard it is for a girl to find a relatively decent guy these days. Some are players, only hoping to build up their reputations. Others are already some mama’s baby daddy—or several mamas’ baby daddy. Then there are those who conveniently forget to mention they’re married or already in a pretty serious relationship, even while they’re trying to charm someone else.”
She decided not to add that since she wasn’t looking for a serious relationship, helping a guy build up his reputation really wouldn’t bother her, as long as he wasn’t a waste of time in the bedroom. From what she’d seen, a lot of men talked a good game but weren’t so good at delivering.
“Well then, I guess I should set the record straight. I am not a player, and my reputation is just fine, I’m not anyone’s baby daddy, and I’m not married or in a serious relationship.”
“I know you’re a nice guy, Landon. They don’t make them like you anymore. You’re mature, and it’s obvious you don’t have time for bullshit.”
He nodded. “Glad you realize that.”
“I also realize that above all else, you are a gentleman. The way you’ve come to my aid, as well as the way you’ve stepped in when other women disrespected me when I was with you, says a lot. It means a lot.”
Although Monica doubted that he knew just how much. But one thing she intended to show him before the cruise ended was how much she appreciated him.
At that moment, Landon didn’t feel like