The Nines Resort

Chapter 40

"Thanks, princess." Jackson's soft reply was music to her ears. A steady beat to her otherwise rampaging pulse. 

She loved seeing him like this, happy and content. It reflected how he made her feel so often. 

She smiled down at the table between them, elated to be appreciated for her hard work at planning their date. She couldn't help but recall when she had planned an elaborate date for her and Randy once upon a time. She had picked out a movie, the snacks, and had planned to see a lightshow with him after. 

The man had smiled, but he had said he was too tired, and had simply regifted the tickets to Olivia so she wouldn't be alone. It had burned her inside. 

It was so different to have someone actually like her efforts. 

To care. 

The smile didn't leave her face, even as they both gave their orders to the waiter. 

But it wasn't until after the orders were delivered and their casual