[ Forget holding your hand, that's his arm.coming around your waist as he sneaks a kiss by your ear when he leads you inside. ]

You have no idea how relieved I am to hear you say that. [ He's saying that with a soft look your way. You'll also be able to tell that with each step closer to the area reserved just for the two of you, this one's looking a little bit more nervous.

Once the girl leaves you both, Josh quietly guides you inside and this is what you see:

The private room is simple and sparse with the exception of the long, low table capable of fitting a group of ten. Either side shows only a cushion each, however, leaving space for the ikebana arrangements that you would distinctly know, since you have been here before, are not a thing at this restaurant.

There is higanbana arranged among bare branches, and large fishbowls with tiny blue flowers floating amongst lavender scented-candles.

As for your boy, he's watching you with quiet and waiting eyes as he closes the door behind him.

He might also sound like a kid on his first date -- which this kind of is? ] I wasn't sure when we'd actually get time out like today again -- so I just -- I wanted to make our first date special--

[ --yeah, he's so nervous, and yes, he's stammering a little. Dear God, he really hopes that you like it??? ]