Merlot Kiss at the Bookstore

"How did I let you talk me into this?"

I turned from the romance section to give Jane my famous how-are-you-so-persuasive look -- the look that is exclusively reserved for her.

"Lis, trust me. You've been single for three months now; it's time to get back in the game. Besides, there is no way you can resist books AND wine!"

It's true. The only reason I agreed to this casual speed dating/meet-and-greet (whatever this thing is) night was because Jane told me it was at a bookstore after hours, and there'd be wine. If I don't meet anyone of interest, at least I can get drunk and lost in the shelves!

As I lifted my glass of riesling to take a sip, I noticed the travel section was close by. "Alright, well you can go mingle with some fellas. I'll be mingling with those beauties over there."

Jane noticed I was pointing to the books; there were no guys in the vicinity. "Elisabeth Mary-Anne Reid ..."

"Relax! I'm letting THEM come to ME. No man in here is going to LOOK at me, let alone CHAT with me, while you're standing right by my side." Maybe it's the lack of self-confidence talking, but Jane is 10 times more gorgeous than I am. I mean, she also made the effort tonight -- full hair and make-up (but not TOO full; still natural looking), cute strappy heels, and a dress that fits her figure beautifully. I, on the otherhand, went with the classic jeans-and-a-nice-shirt look ... with ballet flats.

Before she could argue with me, I sauntered over to peruse the travel books. It's been a couple years since I've been anywhere. Who knows? Maybe I'll be inspired tonight and book a one-way ticket to Europe. Or go backpacking through South America for a year. Ooh, or go on an African safari!

"You're pretty." I felt the breath on my neck before I heard the words ... then a deep inhale through the nose, meaning this random guy clearly sniffed my hair. How is he drunk enough to be slurring his words already? This event started 5 minutes ago!

"Keep it moving, Prince Charming. Not interested." I didn't even look his way; I just stared at the shelves as I waved my hand, motioning him to leave me be and not return.

I heard him mumbling something along the lines of "dumb witch" as he walked away ... that might've been the slur talking; pretty sure the W was really a B. I sighed, definitely convinced I should pick up one of these travel books now. But which one?

A minute went by before I heard, "Excuse me?" Okay, a polite guy ... let's take a look. As I glanced his way, the first things I noticed were shaggy brown hair (short enough to still look classy, but sitting at about shoulder-length), round-lens glasses, and a green collared shirt untucked from his jeans. "I'm sorry to bother you, but I was too curious. Where are you going?"

"Going?" It took me a moment to realize he was referring to the where we were standing. "Oh! I was just daydreaming. I haven't travelled in awhile, thought it'd be nice to plan a trip."

"What's been your favourite place so far?"

"I don't know if I can choose a favourite ... but my first trip out of the continent was to Japan, with my Grandpa. That's an experience I'll cherish forever." I smiled sadly at the memory, wishing my Grandpa was still here. Then I remembered where I was; no time for tears. "How about you? Have you travelled much?"

"Not since college, I'm afraid. My friends talked me into a spring break in Mexico my senior year -- a little too wild for my liking, but not a bad week. I'd like to go to Europe one day ... visit where my grandparents came from."

"Oh! Did they immigrate to Canada?"

"Mhm, all four of them. My dad's parents came from Germany, and my mom's family lives in Denmark."

"Wow! And you haven't been yet?"

He shook his head. "No. My parents have, but I haven't had the opportunity yet."

"It's funny, I was actually just considering Europe before you came over. The trouble is, the continent is so rich with culture and history, I'd want to spend more than a month just visiting EVERY country."

"What if you had to only pick FIVE countries?"

I pondered this question for a moment. "Scotland and Norway, for sure -- that's where my family came from, centuries ago. And then, to be honest, I'd probably pick the three best wine-producing countries: France, Italy, and Spain."

His silent smile concerned me. Does he think I'm an alcoholic? Should I have not been so honest?

After what felt like minutes, rather than seconds, he finally asked "What's your poison?" as he pointed to my glass.

"Riesling. And I see you decided to go red."

"Mhm. Merlot -- I have a hard time resisting anything cherry-flavoured."

... Was he being suggestive? I don't care. I'm smitten.

He held up his glass of merlot. "A toast ... to books, travel, and incredible company." I felt my face blush as I lifted my own glass to clink his in cheers, ingesting the final words of his toast.

Jane interrupted us as politely as she could, but I couldn't help be disappointed to see her. I didn't realize the event was already over though. Have I really been talking to this guy for two hours? I swear it's only been 10 minutes!

"Sorry Lis, the bookstore people are kicking us out now."

"I can drive her home!" Mystery man offered, although quickly looked worried, like he just offended me or overstepped a boundary. "Unless you'd rather I didn't. I just ... really had a nice night."

Jane grinned at me. "Text me when you get home?" I nodded as she walked away.

I looked back at Mr. Incredible ... and, before I knew what was happening, his lips were on mine. We eventually parted, his cheeks lightly blushed. "I meant to go for the cheek. I would've never kissed your lips without permission, I'm so sorry, I ..."

"I'M sorry we had our first kiss before I learned your name." I smiled, showing him he DEFINITELY had permission to kiss me.

He chuckled. "My name is Will."

Giving my best seductive smile, I exclaimed "Will ... you taste like cherries."