Two weeks had passed since that night at the party, and Angelo and I had been texting non-stop. Between classes, study sessions, and late-night conversations, we managed to stay in touch despite my hectic schedule. I was thrilled that my tests were finally over, and I could focus on something other than my textbooks for a change.
This morning, Izzie and I were at our favourite cafe, enjoying a much-needed break and catching up over breakfast. Well, Izzie was catching up—I was barely able to focus on our conversation because I was busy texting Angelo. We were planning our first official date, a picnic in the park, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement every time my phone buzzed with a new message from him.
"Hello, earth to Isa!" Izzie's voice broke through my thoughts, and I looked up to see her grinning at me from across the table.
"Sorry," I said, sheepishly putting my phone down. "What were you saying?"
"I was saying," she replied with an exaggerated sigh, "that Angelo is totally stealing my best friend. I can barely get a full sentence out of you without your phone lighting up."
I laughed, feeling a bit guilty. "I'm sorry, Izzie. We've just been trying to finalize our plans for the picnic date. I promise I'm here now."
Izzie rolled her eyes playfully but her expression softened. "I'm really happy for you, Isa. It's great to see you so excited about someone. But," she added, her tone growing more serious, "just be careful, okay? I mean, you haven't really spent much time with him in person. You don't know everything about him yet."
"I know," I said, appreciating her concern. "That's why we're going on this date—to get to know each other better. But thank you for looking out for me. It means a lot."
Izzie smiled and reached across the table to give my hand a reassuring squeeze. "Always. Just promise me you'll keep your eyes open and trust your instincts."
"I promise," I said, feeling a surge of gratitude for her friendship. "And don't worry, you'll always be my best friend. No one can steal that title from you."
"Good," she said, a mischievous glint returning to her eyes. "Because I plan on being there to tease you about all your future dates too."
We both laughed, and the tension subsided as we returned to our breakfasts. Despite my excitement about Angelo, I appreciated Izzie's unwavering support and genuine concern. As much as I wanted to jump right into this new potential relationship, I knew I could rely on my best friend to keep me grounded.
The morning of my picnic date with Angelo, I found myself standing in the middle of my dorm room, surrounded by a mountain of clothes. I had tried on what felt like every single item in my closet, and nothing seemed right. Frustration was bubbling up inside me as I stared at the heap of clothes on my bed.
"Izzie, Paige, I have nothing to wear!" I exclaimed, feeling a mix of exasperation and anxiety.
Izzie and Paige, who had been lounging on Izzie's bed, exchanged amused glances before bursting into laughter. "Oh, Isa," Izzie said, shaking her head with a grin. "You are way too stressed about this."
"Yeah, relax," Paige added, her voice warm and reassuring. "We'll help you find something perfect."
They hopped off the bed and joined me in the mess of clothes. With their combined efforts, we quickly started sorting through the pile, holding up different outfits and discussing their merits.
"How about this one?" Paige suggested, holding up a soft yellow sundress with delicate floral patterns. (Courtsey of Odessa)
Izzie examined it and nodded approvingly. "Yes, that's perfect! It's cute, comfortable, and perfect for a picnic."
I looked at the dress and felt a wave of relief. It was simple yet elegant, and I could already picture myself wearing it. "Okay, let's do it," I agreed, feeling my anxiety begin to dissipate.
With their help, I quickly changed into the dress. It fit me perfectly, the soft fabric flowing around me and the color complementing my skin tone. Izzie and Paige beamed at me, clearly pleased with their choice.
"Now for the finishing touches," Izzie declared, ushering me to sit down at my desk.
Paige took charge of my hair, deftly undoing my box braids and styling them into a chic half-up, half-down look, securing it with a delicate hairpin. Meanwhile, Izzie focused on my makeup, opting for a natural look with a hint of shimmer to make my features pop.
"You look amazing," Paige said, stepping back to admire their handiwork.
"Absolutely stunning," Izzie added, giving me a reassuring smile. "Angelo is going to be blown away."
I took a deep breath and looked at my reflection in the mirror. They were right—I looked and felt amazing. The dress, the hair, the makeup—it all came together perfectly, and I couldn't help but smile.
"Thank you, guys," I said, turning to hug them both. "I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Anytime," Izzie replied with a wink. "Now go have an amazing date and remember, just be yourself. He's already into you for who you are."
I nodded, feeling a surge of confidence. With Izzie and Paige's support, I was ready for my picnic date with Angelo. I grabbed my purse and headed out, excitement and nerves mingling as I made my way to meet him.
When I arrived at the park, I immediately spotted Angelo. He had already set up a cozy picnic area with a checkered blanket spread out on the grass and a wicker basket filled with snacks. He looked incredibly handsome, his dark hair tousled in that effortlessly stylish way I loved. He was wearing a light blue button-down shirt that perfectly complemented his olive skin tone and a pair of well-fitted khaki shorts. His warm, brown eyes lit up when he saw me, and I felt my heart skip a beat.
"Hey, Isa," he greeted me with a smile that could melt ice.
"Hi, Angelo," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady as I approached.
We settled onto the blanket, and I couldn't help but think that the date seemed too good to be true. Everything was perfect—the weather, the setup, and most importantly, Angelo. We talked about everything, from our favorite books and movies to our childhood memories and future dreams. It felt so natural, like we'd known each other forever.
Angelo was in his final year studying Environmental Science. As we sat on the blanket, snacking and talking, our conversation naturally turned to his plans after graduation.
"I'm really passionate about sustainability and conservation," he said, his eyes lighting up as he spoke. "I'm hoping to work with a nonprofit organization focused on environmental protection. There are a few in California that I've been looking into."
"That's amazing," I replied, genuinely impressed. "It sounds like you have a clear vision for what you want to do. Have you always been interested in environmental science?"
He nodded, smiling. "Yeah, ever since I was a kid. I grew up in a small town where nature was a big part of our daily lives. My parents took me hiking, camping, and we spent a lot of time at the beach. I fell in love with the environment and knew I wanted to do something to help protect it."
I listened intently, captivated by his passion and dedication. "That's really inspiring, Angelo. It must be rewarding to know that you'll be making a difference."
"It is," he agreed. "And it's even more motivating knowing there are people who care about these issues as much as I do. What about you, Isa? What are your plans after graduation?"
"Honestly, I don't really know. All I know is that I want to major in Biology"
"That's fine, you have all the time to figure it out"
At one point, Angelo looked deep into my eyes, his expression serious yet tender. "Isa," he began, his voice soft, "I have to tell you something. You're everything I've been missing. You're smart, funny, and kind. And you're so beautiful."
My heart raced as he continued, listing all the things he loved about me. I could feel my cheeks burning, but I couldn't tear my eyes away from his. The way he looked at me made me feel like the most special person in the world.
As the sun began to set, we decided it was time to pack up. Angelo insisted on carrying the basket, and we walked back to my dorm together. When we reached the entrance, he turned to me, his eyes filled with warmth.
"I had an amazing time today," he said, leaning in closer. My heart pounded, anticipating what was about to happen. But just as he moved to kiss me, I turned my head, and his lips landed on my cheek. He chuckled softly and gave me a gentle peck on the cheek instead.
"I'm looking forward to our next date," he said, his smile genuine.
"Me too," I replied, feeling a mix of relief and excitement.
When I entered my room, I was glad to see that Izzie wasn't there. She had left a note on her bed, saying she was out with Paige and Nicole. I couldn't stop blushing as I replayed the day's events in my mind. I jumped onto my bed and squealed into my pillow, feeling an overwhelming sense of joy. This had been the best date ever, and I couldn't help but laugh at the realization that it was actually my first date ever.
Everything about the day had been perfect, and as I lay there, I felt an undeniable excitement for what was to come.