Whispers Of Petals

Chapter 3

"You liar," I grunted, playfully punching his chest. But let me tell you, that punch hurt – his abs were something else. I winced quietly, but Dylan must have noticed because he gently took my hand, raising it near his mouth and blowing on it softly while rubbing it with care. I couldn't help but blush at the gesture. If he had done this when we were kids, I wouldn't have minded, but now, as adults, there were feelings I couldn't quite control. I quickly retrieved my hand and let out a fake laugh. "What was that?" I asked, trying to mask the fluttering in my heart.

"Just like old times," Dylan replied with a smile. Trying to divert my attention, I asked, "Anyway, where's your girlfriend?" His eyebrow raised at my question. "She's going to be a little late," he answered casually, but my heart sank nonetheless. Ignoring his response, I started to make my way towards the entrance of the restaurant, only to be pulled back to face him.

Dylan leaned down, his voice low as he whispered, "Are you jealous?" My cheeks flushed once again, and I tried to pull away, but his grip was strong, making it difficult for me to break free. "You wish I was jealous," I grunted, attempting to maintain my composure. Finally releasing me, Dylan continued to hold my hand, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "You've become more annoying," I remarked, giving him a pointed look, but he didn't let go of my hand.

I quickly removed Dylan's hand when I noticed my brother approaching us. Giving Chris a warm hug, Dylan followed suit, and we all settled into our seats at the restaurant. As the guys began to place their orders, Dylan sat directly across from me, making it impossible not to steal glances at him.

He caught my gaze and asked, "Are you in the mood for steak tonight?" I nodded, replying, "Yes, but I'll have mine medium well. I can't stand the sight of blood," I added with a slight shudder at the thought. Chris interjected, suggesting oysters, but Dylan quickly vetoed the idea, stating, "No oysters, Sam hates them." I couldn't help but stare at him, touched by his consideration.

Chris then placed our order, "We'll have three sparkling waters, one tomahawk steak medium well, an Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, and your finest red wine tonight," he instructed the waiter. Turning to us, Chris asked, "Is there anything else you guys want?" I shook my head, indicating that I was content with the order, and Dylan echoed my response with a simple "no."

"So, when are you going back to Germany?" my brother asked Dylan. My heart dropped for a second at the thought of him leaving again after just reuniting. Dylan gave my brother a big grin and exclaimed, "I'm staying here in New York!" Unconsciously, I blurted out in surprise, "OMG! Really? That's great!" Both of them laughed, and my brother teased, "You seem to be very happy he's staying."

I shrugged and replied, "I bet you're happier now that your girlfriend's back," snickering at my own remark. I could hear Dylan defending himself as to why he's the "girlfriend," while Chris continued to laugh. "Yeah, I'm happy my boo's back," Dylan went on, launching into a lively tale about his journey expanding airlines across Asia. He explained that his motive for being away in Germany was to work with aircraft companies and delve into mechanical endeavors.

Chris also joined in, discussing his own ventures in taking over malls, branches, and various commercial properties, as well as his plans to continue investing in real estate. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and when the steak arrived, everyone paused from talking to focus their attention on the mouthwatering dish. "Hmmm, smells so good," I moaned, salivating at the aroma.

Another surprise came from Dylan as he took a slice with less blood and placed it on my plate. "Thank you," I grinned gratefully. Turning to Chris, I playfully argued, "I think we're not related. Look at Dylan, he's more qualified to be my brother – he even gave me a sliced steak!" My brother mockingly exclaimed, "Dylan, how dare you steal my sister and try to get her to like you more!" We all laughed, and for a moment, it felt like we were kids again, sharing jokes and bonding over a delicious meal.

Suddenly, Chris' phone rang and I can hear his frustration over the person he's talking to. When he end the call, he turned to us with a sad face. "I'm sorry guys, something happened at the headquarter, and I need to check it ASAP." He began to stand up and turn to Dylan. "Can you do me a favor and drive Sam home? Also, Sam don't forget to order some desserts. Don't worry about me. I'll go now, bye!" My brother kissed me on the forehead and left.