Romance Rewind: Hosting
Having bought a house in the past year, David was excited to host a party with friends. He’d been over to friend’s homes over the years but never had a proper set up for a party of his own.
Having bought a house in the past year, David was excited to host a party with friends. He’d been over to friend’s homes over the years but never had a proper set up for a party of his own.
His home was modest but boasted an abnormally large dining room. After work on Friday, he set the table for six people. His friend Jennifer told him she’d be bringing a friend of hers that David “would love”. The thought of a blind date during a dinner party made him nervous, but he was in his own home, and he couldn’t tell if he was more anxious or excited.
He finished setting up by 5:00 pm, which gave him ample time to get ready before people started arriving at 6:30. The place settings at the table were in order; there was a platter of cheese and crackers on the kitchen table for snacking. Beverages filled the refrigerator, and he had both a bottle of red wine and white beside the cheese platter.
The first person to arrive was his friend Richard and his wife, Lisa. They’d been together for five years and recently married. David introduced them to one another at a college party their senior year. Richard often tossed the idea around of starting a family when he played golf with David on the weekends.
Richard went straight for the cheese after David took his coat.
“He’s been talking about this party all week,” said Lisa. “Your home is beautiful, David.”
David took Lisa’s coat and smiled.
“Thank you,” he replied. “Minimal renovations, which was nice. I’m happy with it. Wait until you see the dining room.”
During the tour for Richard and Lisa, David heard a knock at the front door. Before he could make his way over, he heard the door creak open.
Standing at the entrance were Ryan and Jennifer, along with someone he didn’t recognize. The mystery woman was wearing a red dress. She had shoulder-length blonde hair. Beautiful eyes.
“David?”
David snapped out of his daydream at the sound of Jennifer’s voice.
“Hey, Jennifer. Ryan. I’m glad you could make it,” said David.
“I’m just happy not to be the house hosting this time,” replied Jennifer.
Richard and Lisa assisted with coats.
“David,” said Jennifer. “This is my friend Melissa. She’s the one I was telling you about.”
“I hope she left out all the bad bits,” said Melissa.
“Trust me,” replied Jennifer, “if there were any I don’t think I’d be able to contain myself.” She turned her attention to David. “She’s a good egg.”
“Jennifer has yet to steer me wrong,” said David. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Melissa.”
“What’s for dinner?” asked Ryan. He patted his stomach. “I haven’t eaten since lunch. Forgot my actual meal at home. I ended up snacking on chips and cookies.”
“Your appetite is welcomed here,” said David. “I have a turkey in the oven. It’s a small one, but there will be plenty for everyone. I couldn’t pass up the sales after Thanksgiving and this house has a freezer chest in the basement.”
“You’ve got a turkey in the oven?” Ryan pulled on his collar. “Now I’m nervous.” He pointed to David. “This is the guy who burned pasta during college. I don’t know how he even managed it.”
“That was one time,” said David, followed by a smile. “I forgot the water.”
“I hope you’ve since mastered pasta making,” said Melissa.
“I have. Pasta, cereal, sandwiches. You name it and I can make it.”
“Melissa is a chef,” said Jennifer. “She makes pasta from scratch every morning.”
“Maybe next time you’ll help me prepare,” replied David.
Melissa smirked.
“Please, please.” David gestured to everyone. “Grab some snacks and find a seat or just hang out in the kitchen. Dinner will be ready in fifteen minutes.”
“Mind if I help plate everything?” asked Melissa.
“I’d love that,” replied David.