Leo did, in fact, return a week later with a properly packaged meal, accompanied by an apology note written in messy handwriting. Emma, unable to resist, agreed to lunch with him in the tiny cafe next door to the bookstore. She still had no idea how someone who could create exquisite dishes could be so... endearingly clumsy.
As they sat at a corner table, surrounded by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries, Leo leaned in, his eyes twinkling. "I'm sorry about the window thing. I've been known to cause chaos in the kitchen, but I swear, I can cook better than I throw food."
Emma raised an eyebrow. "I'm going to need proof of that."
Leo smiled mischievously. "Well, how about I invite you to my restaurant and show you? I'll cook for you."
She hesitated. "Is this your idea of a date?"
"Depends," Leo said with a wink. "You could call it a 'food apology.'"
Emma laughed. "A food apology, huh? What are you going to do next, serenade me with a spoon?"
He leaned back in his chair, eyes glinting with playfulness. "If it'll get me another date with you, I might just do that."
The conversation flowed effortlessly after that. They talked about everything from Emma's love for old books to Leo's latest culinary experiment. By the end of the lunch, Emma realized she was already looking forward to their next meeting.
Over the next few weeks, they became a regular fixture in each other's lives. Leo would stop by the bookstore, bringing her the latest creations from his kitchen—ravioli, risotto, and even the occasional batch of cookies. Emma, in turn, would recommend new novels, which Leo would devour like he devoured his meals—enthusiastically.
It didn't take long for Emma to realize something else—she was falling for Leo. His humor, his carelessness, and his passion for both food and life were infectious. But despite the warm fuzzies blooming in her chest, Emma wasn't sure if she was ready to take the next step. She had always been cautious with her heart.
One evening, Leo took her to his restaurant, a small but trendy bistro just off the main square. The evening was perfect. The food was delicious, the atmosphere cozy, and Leo's smile was enough to make her forget everything but him.
After dinner, as they strolled through the quiet streets, Leo turned to her. "Emma, there's something I need to ask you."
She looked up at him, her heart suddenly racing. "What is it?"
Leo stopped walking and took her hands in his. "I've had the most amazing time with you. And I think—I know—I want to see where this can go. I'm tired of just throwing pasta at people. I want to build something real."
Emma's breath caught in her throat. She'd been waiting for him to say it, but hearing the words made her chest tighten with uncertainty.
"I… I don't know," she said softly. "I'm scared of messing things up."
Leo smiled gently, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "Then let's mess things up together."