Her Chance At Love. Nicki Night

and the women figured that would work since Blake had yet to arrive.

      “Can I take your name?” the young hostess asked Alana.

      “Ah.” She paused, looking at Cadence for confirmation. Cadence shrugged. “Sure. Alana. Party of three, but our third party is not here yet.”

      “Okay. You said Alana, right?” the woman asked, and Alana nodded. “Will you be dining with Mr. Barrington this evening?”

      Cadence and Alana exchanged surprised glances. “Yes, we will. How’d you know?”

      Offering up a pleasant smile, the hostess said, “Oh, Mr. Barrington called ahead, so we were expecting you. Follow me,” the hostess said with a nod, grabbing several menus and leading them through the loud bustling restaurant to a room set aside for private events. They were seated at a table for at least eight people and the hostess placed a menu at each setting. Turning to them, she smiled and nodded again. “I’ll send your waiter right over. Mr. Barrington and the rest of your party should be with you shortly.”

      “Thank you,” Alana said to the woman politely before turning to Cadence. “How the heck did Blake manage this?” she said, referring to the fact that they were seated immediately despite the long wait.

      “I don’t know, but I’m glad we don’t have to wait the whole forty-five minutes. I thought about leaving but, realizing that it’s a Saturday evening, every other restaurant will have a similar wait.” Cadence couldn’t help glancing around as she anticipated Blake’s arrival.

      “Yeah, but Blake didn’t offer to treat us to those restaurants. Ha!” Alana teased.

      “Thanks, Kim,” Blake’s voice sounded off just outside of the room where Alana and Cadence sat.

      Cadence turned around so fast she almost gave herself whiplash. She hoped Alana hadn’t noticed her eagerness because she sure wouldn’t let her live it down.