Better than expected

Despite your semi-depressed state, you can't help but watch the intoxicating sway of her hips as she walks away. You're still staring when she pauses and looks over her shoulder. She simply smiles and winks before continuing back towards the others. You turn back towards the water, trying and failing at keeping your blush down.

Strangely, her laughter makes you more at ease, rather than more embarrassed, with the fact that you were caught checking her out.

Your friends and family have tried so hard to help you get over Melissa in anyway possible, however, you've always been bad at casual dating- ironic, because your ex was exceptionally good at it- and you always felt like a third wheel whenever you went out with any of them. Going out with the guys wasn't much of an improvement as you were the only unattached male in your group.

It didn't help that you were a bit envious of each and every single one of them.

You let out a cleansing sigh.

Doe was certainly understanding enough. In fact, you couldn't be sure that you would be as understanding if the situation was reversed. Those closest to you had definitely chosen well, better than they knew, you were certain.

That didn't mean any of them were off the hook just yet.

Steeling your resolve, you follow after Doe.

The only thing you know for certain at this point is that you want things to go well. The biggest obstacle, is that you don't know exactly what everyone is expecting to happen between you and Doe- and that includes the woman herself. Even with the small amount of exposure you've had, you already know you want her to be more than a fling or a rebound girl- her unconditional understanding alone indicates she deserves more than that.

Unfortunately, though you're beginning to finally get over your slut ex-girlfriend, you know your not quite ready for a steady relationship just yet- though with luck, you soon might be.

Having just arrived, you figure it's too soon to be considering all of this just yet. Especially since you have to get through a dinner with potentially angry, well meaning, manipulative friends and family.

Having taken the time to get away from your friends and family, you are the last to arrive at the restaurant. Already, the tension is mounting and you haven't even taken your seat yet. Lauren gives you an apologetic look, while Doe gives you a sympathetic one, while Jessica is openly glaring at you. Given Jessica's erratic gestures before you got within hearing distance of their whispered argument, and the looks of frustration on the faces of everyone else- not to mention the fact that the conversation halted as soon as you were spotted it is obvious to you that you were the topic of a not so pleasant conversation.

“So, Jess... Am I already 'Dead to You' or do I get to sit down first?” you say in an even tone. Doe subtly nudges her sister and the two share a look which has an immediate affect on your best friend's wife. You hope to never have that look directed at you.

Tension somewhat broken, you take the only seat available- the one between your brother and Doe.

“Hey, what's goin' on with you, John?” your brother asks you sit.

You sigh, because you HAVE been a bit of a bastard to them while they have had your best intentions in mind. You opt to provide them with a small caveat.

“Nothing I want to talk about right now,” you reply, “Though Doe already knows.” Without thinking, you take her hand and give it a gentle squeeze, which she replies with an encouraging smile. You opt to change the subject completely. “So, have we ordered yet?”

And with those words, the remaining tension was broken.