Figured I'd Still Bring Wine

"Babe, what are your plans on Friday?"

His question shook me out of the email rabbit hole I'd spiraled into during my workday. His voice reminded me that even though I'm working from home, I'm still home. His voice feels like home to me, actually. Stern but soft spoken. Like a lion who lets out an accidental roar during its morning stretch.

I lift my left hand, which is now weighed down from the diamond engagement ring he put on it two weeks ago. Now that I'm a fiancée, we make weekend plans as a unit.

"Um, this Friday?" I open a 13th tab on my work laptop to check the calendar. "Yea," he calls out in a hurry from the next room. He needs an answer quick before his next video call.

This Friday, I'm not doing anything. Why what's up?" I said.

Well because I want to take you on a triple date with Tony and Sheena. Plus, I want you to meet my other homeboy Jonathan and his girl.

My eyebrow twitches involuntarily and the top corner of my lip curls in confused frustration. The pause in between his last words already lets Samson know that this is NOT how I want to spend my Friday. I process the proposition to make logic in my head.

He wants me to go on a triple date, but really it's a first date because I've never met Jonathan and his girl. Does his girl have a name? What in the 1950's possessive twilight zone are we in?

My next thought, slips out of my logic swirl. "Who is his girl?"

Like damn, can she have a name.

"His girl's name is Alysse," Samson says in frustration that I'm already off topic.

"Oh, okay. Umm yea--I'm not doing anything on Friday. What ya'll trying to do?"

Yikes. I immediately catch that "lack of enthusiasm" language slip. I said ya'll as if I'm not about to be part of this. Oh, I need to tighten up. If this is what marriage is going to be like--my husband showing me off like a prized pony-- I should get better at putting on a good face.

I should pour a glass of wine."

Samson nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Good idea. I'll grab the bottle."

As he headed to the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. I was looking forward to spending time with Samson and his friends, but the idea of meeting someone new, especially in such a public setting, made me a little nervous.

When Samson returned with a bottle of Pinot Noir, we clinked glasses and took a sip. The wine was smooth and flavorful, and it helped to ease my tension.

"So, what's the plan for Friday?" I asked, trying to sound casual.

"We're going to a new restaurant downtown," Samson replied. "It's supposed to be really good."

I nodded. "Sounds fun. I'm looking forward to meeting Alysse."

Samson grinned. "She's a great girl. You're going to like her."

As the evening wore on, I found myself getting more and more excited about the triple date. The prospect of meeting new people and spending time with Samson was starting to feel like a welcome adventure.

The next day, Friday arrived. I got dressed in a casual but stylish outfit and met Samson at a nearby coffee shop. Tony and Sheena were already there, and they greeted us with warm smiles.

We chatted for a while over coffee, and then we headed to the restaurant. The place was bustling with people, and the atmosphere was lively and energetic.

When Jonathan and Alysse arrived, I was immediately struck by how friendly and approachable they seemed. We introduced ourselves and started talking. Alysse was everything Samson had described her to be—smart, funny, and easy to talk to.

The evening was a huge success. We laughed, we talked, and we enjoyed some delicious food. By the time we left the restaurant, I felt like I had known Jonathan and Alysse for years.

As we walked back to Samson's car, I couldn't help but smile. The triple date had been even better than I had expected. I was so glad that Samson had insisted on taking me.

"I had a great time," I told him. "Thank you for inviting me."

Samson squeezed my hand. "I'm glad you did, too. I think you and Alysse are going to be good friends."