Chapter 6 – Charlie's POV – Dinner

Charlie gave himself a quick once over and checked his teeth for food, then smirked at his reflection.

Charlie stepped out of his car and quickly but not with an air of haste walked to Sally's door and rang the door- bell. He took one breath before the door opened. He felt remarkably clearheaded.

Sally stood in the entrance way. She wore her raven hair to the small of her back. A small quiet laugh escaped her lips. "Charlie, I am so glad you came!" Charlie handed her the bouquet of red roses. "You shouldn't have. But Red is my favorite color, so I graciously accept." Her response pleased Charlie; he would need to thank Bella later.

"You look lovely."

She just smiled, her glorious teeth showing. She seemed to be watching his intently, carefully, but there was humor deep in her eyes.

Sally giggled and smiled warmly, leading him into the cottage. The rooms were unfurnished, appearing as though she just moved in and only brought a few key furnishings. He stopped in the entranceway of the dining room: two chairs stood at two apposite ends of an elaborately decorated dining table, silver plates and silverware set the table and a large carved silver platter lay in the middle. No woman had ever gone to this extent in pleasing him. He was shocked. Sally sat at the farther end of the luxuriously upholstered dining table, graceful even in absolute stillness. Charlie figured that he could easily end up in love with her.

The trance of awe that had overcome Charlie was broken as he heard the sound surrounding them, there was classical music playing. "You like classical, huh?"

Her eyes vivid in the candlelit glow, she replied, "Yes, I do. Now tell me Charlie, did you think it was too bold of me to ask you here tonight?"

He assured her, "Well, I understand how it is to be new in town. It's difficult to meet people." He smiled then looked around the room. The furnishings were threadbare. Tattered curtains were pulled taught closing their world off to the outside. Charlie noticed that there were no traces of any home cooking. The kitchen, visible from the dining table, contained no appliances. Charlie looked down at his reflection on the empty silver plate. He noticed several hairs sticking out awkwardly on the right side of his head and suddenly wished he had a moment alone to fix his hair. "So, you decide to order in tonight?" Charlie commented.

Sally giggled, eyes solemn, her gaze never leaving him she turned her fork over and over in her hand. "Yes, as a matter of fact I did. Isn't it easier to order your meal and have it delivered right to your doorstep?" She giggled once more, tilted her head and gave him one last coy smile.

END OF CHAPTER