Patient Problem? Part 2

First dates are awkward at the best of times. Hardly knowing someone can go one of two ways; it can lessen the awkward air, or it can make the awkwardness so thick you can slice it with a fork. With David, however, there wasn't a single dull moment. Airica was kept on her toes and laughing all through dinner. In the movie theater- an unexpected treat- Airica was shushed several times by other viewers for her sudden, inexplicable bursts of laughter. She claimed later that David had been whispering riff-track-worthy sentences to her, but of course the disgruntled others really didn't care what she said. It wasn't until David dropped her off at home that things really began to seem like a first date- awkward and silent. David could only stare and smile. Airica looked at him and smiled back, suddenly shy and hesitant.

"You are so beautiful."

"David..."

"I mean it. You are. I've never met anyone like you."

"David, I've only known you for one day."

"But I've known you for weeks. Ever since you patched me up...I've...I've been following you, Airica. I've gone to the hospital every week since the accident. Only two of those visits were for follow ups. The others were to see you. I got a job near the hospital. I stay late and get there way early to see you. I watch you on Tuesdays. I know they're your days off. I want to spend every minute for you. I think you're amazing. Airica...I think you're in love."

"David-!"

"Just listen. It's true. I really do believe that I have found the one. I think you're it. I love you, Airica. I want to spend the rest of my life getting to know you better. Please let me."

Airica stared at him, suddenly shocked and scared. "David, I had a good time with you. I really did. But...you've been following me!?"

David nodded, a small smile on his face.

"You can't- you can't do that. That's not right. That's stalking someone. You could- I don't know, but...why did you do that? Why didn't you just talk to me first?"

"I wanted to get to know you when you're around other people before you were you around me. I know how you act all the time now, and I love it. Please, Airica. Please." David knelt and pulled a ring out of his pocket. No case, just a single ring. "Airica, I truly do love you. Please, marry me."