#Restaurant Kiosk Ordering

[blog-eatos12]

Cut the Queue: Boosting Customer Satisfaction with Restaurant Kiosk Ordering

Explore how restaurant kiosk ordering can slash wait times and elevate your dining experience, boosting efficiency and customer satisfaction.

The customer is always right. In the food service business world, this translates to mean that satisfactory customer experience constitutes the headlining course on the menu and convenience of the side dish. That's where restaurant kiosk ordering systems come in in-installing self-service technology, which now lets consumers be in charge of placing their orders, and while doing so, reducing queues to an efficient size. Join us as we embark on a deep dive into the realms of self-service technology and just how it can liven up the efficiency and customer experience in your restaurant.

What is Restaurant Kiosk Ordering?

Restaurant Kiosk Ordering is Fast Service at Your Fingertips

Restaurant Self ordering kiosk systems is like having a virtual waiter at each table—without the tedium of small talk. They're stand-alone terminals where customers are free to order and pay for their meals without having to flag down a server or line up. Your high-tech menus pop with full-color, mouth-watering images of your dishes, enable customization and instantly upsell add-ons and specials on just a few taps of a touch screen.

The Alluring Benefits of Kiosk Ordering

Reduce Wait Times, Raise Smiles

Long lines are the worst enemy of the hungry diner. Restaurant Self ordering kiosks can defeat this enemy by making the ordering process smoother, so customers can search, select, and pay at their convenience. That translates to quicker service, shorter wait times, and more turns for the day surefire way to both satisfied customers and profits.

Order Accuracy-Getting It Right the First Time

Every restaurant owner is familiar with the expense of an order gone wrong: it is a double loss of wasted food and an unhappy customer. Kiosk systems eliminate the risk from the ordering process by allowing customers to alter their meals precisely to suit their tastes so that what arrives at the table is exactly as they had envisioned. Fewer orders gone wrong result in less waste and more compliments from customers.

Upselling Made Easy

But the true sorcery of suggestive selling here is that it can raise the bottom line by coaxing customers to spend a little more for that extra appetizer or premium topping-kids love that stuff. Since machines don't blush when they upsell, these suggestions can create a meaningful bump in average order size.

Empower Your Customers, Empower Your Employees

Restaurant kiosk ordering is a way of taking back control and letting people have power over their experience. Not completely bad for the customer, it's also good news for your staff. Kiosks can handle all these routine orders and allow your team to focus on delivering that kind of fine customer service, to make the meal memorable.

Compatibility Is the Heart

Building Kiosks Into Your Restaurant's Ecosystem

Restaurant kiosks today can coexist with others without issues, meaning they can easily interface well with all of your other Point of Sale systems and kitchen display screens. In doing so, it translates into an almost seamless order flow as the kitchen remains in motion and well-oiled during your lunch rush.

Data-Driven Decision Making

This translates to thousands of data points for every tap, swipe, or selection made on a kiosk. Menu popularity and peaking ordering times following are some of the examples of the in-depth analytics that guide menu developments, staffing decisions, and marketing strategies restaurant self-ordering kiosk systems provide.

Optimizing Your Restaurant Kiosks

Branding Your Kiosks

Your kiosk is more of an instrument but also a canvas for your brand. Personalize it with your colors, logo, and personality for consistency from street to seat. This aesthetic appeal may catch the customers' eyes and have your restaurant's identity at the heart of their restaurant journey.

Training Your Team

As important as the kiosks may be for taking most of the orders, your staff has an integral role too. Train your employees on how to complement the kiosks and provide a value-added service for consumers for a harmonious blend of tech efficiency and human warmth.

Keeping It Fresh

Changing a seasonal menu, and refreshing your kiosk display and its offers will keep the customers interested and eager to return to the restaurant again and again. With updates, new features, and limited-time promotions, you can easily roll these out through your kiosks to keep your customers engaged.

Conclusion: Reinvent Your Restaurant with Kiosk Ordering

Restaurant kiosk ordering is not a trend-it's a transformation in the pursuit of the perfect dining experience. Adopting this novel ordering system simply means you avoid queuing and level up your whole restaurant operation to unprecedented levels of efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Ready to have success served on a silver platter? Restaurant Self ordering kiosk is knocking at your door! Reach out to eatOS today, ask for a demo, and be amazed at the power of self-service technology that can revolutionize your restaurant. Be part of the fast-growing group of smart food service professionals committed to maximizing profits, delighting customers, and racing ahead in the frenetic restaurant world. Your customers crave convenience-you could give it a bite!

[markthomas]

Restaurant Kiosk Ordering

Self-service kiosks are transforming how restaurants operate by offering faster, more efficient ways for customers to place orders. With restaurant kiosk ordering, diners can skip the line, customize their meals, and pay directly at the kiosk, making the entire process seamless.

At eatOS, our self-service kiosks integrate directly with your restaurant’s point-of-sale system, ensuring that orders go straight to the kitchen for fast, accurate preparation. This eliminates human error, reduces wait times, and allows your staff to focus on providing exceptional service.

Our kiosks are perfect for busy quick-service restaurants or cafes, where speed and accuracy are essential. Plus, the sleek touchscreen interface offers an intuitive ordering experience that can boost customer satisfaction and encourage repeat visits.

By adopting kiosk ordering, you can streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and enhance your guests' overall experience. It’s the perfect solution for restaurants looking to modernize and keep up with evolving customer preferences.

[acceptccnow]

Redefining Dining: Elevating Restaurants with Advanced Self-Ordering Kiosk

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | Accept-credit-cards-now.com

Starting November 1 at 11:00 a.m. EST. and every Monday and Wednesday after.

REGISTER NOW FOR THE FREE WEBINAR: TouchSuite.com/grubbrr-webinar

Limited Space Available

In the ever-evolving landscape of the digital era, the restaurant industry continually adapts to stay competitive. Restaurant owners grapple with challenges such as increasing costs, labor shortages, and a growing demand for integrated dining solutions. In this context, self-ordering kiosks emerge as a significant innovation in the dining sector.

What Sets Self-Ordering Kiosks Apart? Self-ordering kiosks offer several advantages, including streamlined operations, increased profits, and an enhanced dining experience. A recent webinar series by TouchSuite and GRUBBRR explores the profound impact of these systems, scheduled every Monday and Wednesday from November 1st at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. These sessions delve into the role of self-ordering kiosks in boosting sales, reducing labor costs, and enhancing the overall dining experience.

The Benefits of Self-Ordering Kiosks: More Orders, Higher Revenue, Satisfied Customers GRUBBRR and Samsung have collaborated on a solution tailored for restaurant entrepreneurs. This cutting-edge technology is designed to boost revenue, reduce operational costs, and enhance the dining experience. Here's how:

Intelligent Upselling: The Samsung System, powered by GRUBBRR, utilizes smart technology to increase the average bill, leading to higher revenue.

Task Automation: By automating routine tasks, restaurants can reassign staff to more critical roles, reducing expenses, and improving the dining atmosphere.

Operational Excellence: Features such as automatic menu synchronization, user-friendly self-ordering activation, and upselling capabilities make restaurant operations seamless.

Prioritizing Health and Safety In today's health-conscious world, these systems come equipped with FDA-approved antibacterial screens, ensuring a safe interface for both staff and customers.

Why Choose TouchSuite and GRUBBRR? TouchSuite, a leader in transaction processing, is known for pioneering solutions. Their partnership with GRUBBRR, experts in self-ordering technology, reflects their commitment to supporting restaurant owners. Their combined solution increases revenue, lowers costs, and enhances the customer experience. Plus, TouchSuite provides excellent support for any GRUBBRR-related inquiries.

The restaurant industry is at a turning point. Faced with a range of challenges, innovation and adaptation are essential. Advanced self-ordering systems offer a promising solution. For those interested in delving deeper, the webinar series by TouchSuite and GRUBBRR is a must-attend event.

Whether you're a restaurant owner or simply intrigued by the future of dining, it's time to explore the world of advanced self-ordering systems. Dive in, learn, and be at the forefront of the dining revolution!

For more insights and to reserve your spot for the upcoming webinars, visit TouchSuite.com. Seize this opportunity to redefine your culinary venture.

[eatos-blog]

Taking Stock: The Essentials of Restaurant Inventory Management Software

In the realm of gastronomy, where patrons demand nothing less than top-tier cuisine and impeccable service, restaurant proprietors and administrators face the arduous task of maintaining a well-stocked kitchen, minimizing wastefulness, and effectively managing expenditures. This is precisely where the realm of restaurant inventory management software comes into play. In this extensive discourse, we embark on a profound exploration of the fundamentals surrounding restaurant inventory management software, accentuating its merits, pivotal attributes, and the transformative potential it harbors for restaurant operations. 

What Constitutes Restaurant Inventory Management Software? 

Restaurant inventory management software stands as a formidable tool meticulously engineered to empower restaurant proprietors and supervisors in their relentless pursuit of methodically overseeing, tracking, and mastering their inventory infrastructure. It proffers a digital remedy to the timeless quandaries tied to the meticulous surveillance of ingredients, provisions, and equipment. This software forms the bedrock of a meticulously organized culinary haven, perpetually ensuring the harmonious rhythm of all operations. 

The Merits of Adhering to Inventory Management Software 

Meticulous Expenditure Oversight 

Amongst the most noteworthy advantages attributed to restaurant inventory management software is its capacity to exercise judicious expenditure control. Through precise monitoring of inventory levels and the vigilant observation of consumption patterns, avenues for curbing extravagance and trimming expenses are unveiled. The ramifications of this could be profound, bearing the potential to elevate profitability to unprecedented heights. 

Augmented Precision 

Manual inventory management bears the inherent vulnerability of yielding inaccuracies, a potential source of stock-related discrepancies. The advent of inventory management software dispels this risk through the mechanization of the entire process. It endows you with real-time data, perpetually ensuring the pristine precision of your inventory records. 

Amplified Efficiency 

Efficiency is the quintessential cornerstone upon which any prosperous restaurant establishment is erected. Inventory management software expedites the ordering procedures by triggering alerts when inventory dwindles perilously low. This precludes the peril of overstocking or the harrowing scenario of crucial ingredients vanishing from your inventory, safeguarding the seamless operation of your kitchen. 

The Pivotal Attributes of Restaurant Inventory Management Software 

To surge past competitors within the fiercely competitive restaurant landscape, a keen comprehension of the cardinal attributes rendering inventory management software indispensable is imperative: 

Inventory Surveillance - At its core, inventory management software is the sentinel of your inventory realm. It furnishes you with the means to vigilantly monitor the quantity and utilization of each constituent in real time. A mere glance suffices to discern which items teeter on the precipice of depletion, necessitating prompt replenishment. 

Astute Supplier Management - Effective supplier management assumes a pivotal role in the flourishing of any dining establishment. Inventory management software empowers you to maintain meticulous records of your suppliers, encompassing their contact details and pricing specifics. Some advanced iterations even facilitate the automation of reordering contingent on predetermined criteria. 

Integration with Culinary Repertoire - Seamless integration with your restaurant's menu constitutes a game-changing facet. It ensures that you perpetually possess the necessary ingredients to conjure each culinary masterpiece. Additionally, it provides insights into the most financially rewarding items on your menu. 

The Prudent Selection of Restaurant Inventory Management Software 

The task of selecting the apt software solution for your dining establishment is a decision of paramount importance, one that warrants meticulous deliberation. Here are some sagacious pointers to steer you toward an informed decision: 

Discern Your Precise Requisites 

Before embarking on your quest, undertake a comprehensive assessment of your restaurant's unique requirements. Contemplate factors such as the scale of your establishment, the intricacies of your culinary repertoire, and your fiscal constraints. Such self-awareness will function as the compass guiding you through your selection process. 

2. Embrace a User-Friendly Interface 

Opt for software that boasts an intuitive interface. Your staff should be able to acclimate themselves to it effortlessly, sans the need for extensive training endeavors. A user-friendly interface will not only conserve time but also stave off the specter of inadvertent errors. 

3. Seamless Integration Capabilities 

In instances where you are already availing yourself of other restaurant management software solutions, ascertain that your inventory system possesses the seamless integration capability essential for harmonious coexistence. Integration simplifies your operational workflow and obviates the redundancy of effort. 

In Denouement 

Inventory management with point of sale restaurant software appears as a hidden catalyst with the potential to propel your dining establishment to previously undiscovered levels of excellence. It is an important asset for any restaurateur or manager because of its ability to control expenses, improve precision, increase productivity, and provide invaluable data insights. You gain a competitive advantage in the frenetic world of gastronomy by meticulously handpicking software that matches your specific needs.

[restaurantpossy001]

The Fundamental Job of POS Frameworks in Current Eateries in Canada!

In the present fast-food climate, eateries need effective devices to oversee tasks, smooth out cycles, and improve client encounters. One of the most urgent parts for accomplishing these objectives is a powerful Retail location (POS) framework. With the developing interest in web-based ordering, the significance of a highly coordinated POS framework in Canadian cafés couldn't possibly be greater.

Figuring out POS Frameworks

A Retail location framework is something other than a sales register. It incorporates a blend of equipment and programming to oversee different café capabilities. These can incorporate deals exchanges, stock administration, representative booking, and client relationships with executives. Restaurant POS System is furnished with highlights that assist café proprietors with observing deals execution, smoothing out orders, and diminishing the possibilities of blunders, fundamentally working on functional proficiency.

It acknowledges installments, oversees tipping and produces receipts. This is fundamental for keeping up with exact deal records and managing income. A decent POS framework permits café directors to monitor stock levels progressively, assisting them with lessening waste and improving stock levels. Numerous POS frameworks incorporate CRM apparatuses that assist organizations with monitoring client inclinations and request chronicles.

The Ascent of Point of Sale Systems

Point of Sale Systems offer customized advancements, and upgrade client reliability. Powerful detailing highlights are fundamental for understanding deal patterns, recognizing top-selling items, and evaluating eatery execution, generally speaking. Bits of knowledge acquired from information examination can illuminate vital choices and assist with streamlining activities.

With innovation and changing customer conduct, web-based association has become a principal part of the eatery business. Canadian cafés are progressively embracing internet requesting frameworks, and when coordinated with a POS framework, they can consistently encounter the two clients and staff.

Online ordering for restaurants

The restaurant business has been increasing, with one of the principal developments being the climb of web demands. When considered an additional assistance, web mentioning has become central for some restaurants worldwide. The creating example of solace-driven devouring has renamed how clients attract their leading coffee shops, offering the two challenges and significant entryways for diner owners. In this article, we will research the reasons for the Online ordering for restaurants, its benefits to restaurants, and some fundamental contemplation for redesigning this assistance.

Online mentioning outfits clients with a predictable encounter that licenses them to orchestrate when the timing is ideal without holding up in line or overseeing involved phone lines. By organizing features, such as versatile menus, steady solicitation following, and booked transport times, restaurants can overhaul purchaser devotion. Besides, online stages regularly grant clients the ability to save their #1 order, dealing with future trades.

Conclusion

In a time when innovation keeps on reshaping the eating experience, a very well-executed POS framework is fundamental for eateries in Canada. Coordinating internet requests with a POS framework further improves functional proficiency and consumer loyalty. As the café scene develops, putting resources into a solid POS framework can influence an eatery's capacity to flourish in a cutthroat market. With suitable instruments, café proprietors can zero in on what makes the most significant difference: giving excellent food and encounters to their clients.

[eatossolutions]

Revolutionize Dining with Restaurant Self-Ordering Kiosks | Boost Efficiency

Enhance customer experience and streamline operations with restaurant self-ordering kiosks. Improve order accuracy, reduce wait times, and increase sales with advanced kiosk solutions. Explore the future of dining today!

[newseatos]

At eatOS, we recognize the pivotal role that hardware plays in the success of a restaurant. Our commitment to innovation drives us to deliver cutting-edge hardware solutions that address the specific needs of the modern and more innovative food industry.

[appzpos]

How to Increase Restaurant Sales: 7 Proven Strategies with APPZPOS F&B Integration Solutions

Are you seeking to boost your restaurant sales and attract more customers? In today's competitive F&B industry, leveraging advanced integration solutions can be a game-changer. Here are seven proven strategies, integrating F&B solutions, to elevate your restaurant sales:

Online Ordering and Delivery Integration: Embrace the convenience trend by integrating online ordering and delivery services into your restaurant operations. With platforms like APPZPOS, customers can effortlessly place orders through your website or mobile app, increasing accessibility and sales volume.

QR Ordering Integration: Simplify the ordering process for diners with QR code ordering. By incorporating QR codes on tables or menus, customers can scan and place orders directly from their smartphones. Utilize APPZPOS QR ordering integration to streamline the dining experience and encourage higher order frequency.

Self-Order Kiosk Integration: Enhance efficiency and reduce wait times by implementing self-order kiosks in your restaurant. Allow customers to browse the menu, customize their orders, and make payments independently. With APPZPOS self-order kiosk integration, you can provide a seamless ordering experience while maximizing sales opportunities.

Third-Party Integrations: By integrating with third-party solutions, POS systems can automate tasks, improve data accuracy, and provide a more comprehensive view of business operations. APPZPOS is partnered with leading food ordering platforms, delivery partners, payment gateways, accounting software, and mall management systems for better efficiency of your operations.

Menu Management Tools: Optimize your menu offerings with advanced menu management tools. With APPZPOS, easily update menus, add new items, and adjust pricing in real-time. Analyze sales data to identify top-performing dishes and strategically promote them to drive sales.

Integrated Loyalty Programs: Build customer loyalty and increase repeat visits with integrated loyalty programs. Reward customers for their patronage with discounts, rewards, or exclusive offers. With APPZPOS loyalty program integration, you can track customer behavior and tailor promotions to maximize engagement and sales.

Analytics and Reporting: Leverage data-driven insights to optimize your restaurant's performance and drive sales growth. With APPZPOS comprehensive analytics and reporting tools, track sales trends, monitor inventory levels, and identify opportunities for improvement. Make informed decisions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize profitability.

By incorporating these seven strategies and leveraging the power of F&B integration solutions like APPZPOS POS System, you can elevate your restaurant sales and position your business for long-term success in today's competitive landscape.

About APPZPOS

APPZPOS is a leading POS solution provider in Singapore for all types of F&B businesses, retailers, and salons. We offer affordable and user-friendly digital ordering solutions, including POS System, Website Ordering, Table QR Ordering, Self Ordering Kiosk, Kitchen Display System(KDS), Queue Number Display, and Order Hub which is linked and seamlessly integrated.

Contact Us for a Free Demo

To see how APPZPOS can meet your business needs, call or WhatsApp us at (+65) 8310 9631 or email enquiry@appzgate.com to book for a demo session.

[restaurant-management-ecosystem]

https://writeupcafe.com/personalized-perks-profitable-results-ai-in-restaurant-loyalty-programs-for-sales-growth/

[yqueue-australia]

Elevating Restaurant Efficiency With YQueue Australia Self-Service Kiosks

YQueue Australia presents cutting-edge Self Service Kiosk for Restaurants designed specifically for Restaurants. Our innovative solution empowers customers to place orders, customize their meals, and make payments conveniently. Enhance efficiency, reduce waiting times, and deliver exceptional dining experiences with our state-of-the-art self-service kiosk technology.

[blog-eatos12]

Enhance Customer Experience with a Restaurant Kiosk System

In today’s fast-paced world, providing a quick and efficient service can set your restaurant apart from the competition. A restaurant kiosk system is an innovative solution designed to streamline the ordering process, reduce wait times, and enhance the overall dining experience. These systems allow customers to place their orders directly at a kiosk, ensuring accuracy and freeing up staff to focus on delivering exceptional service.

A kiosk POS integrates seamlessly with your existing Point of Sale system, making it easy to update menus, manage orders, and keep track of sales in real time. This integration also allows for better inventory management and helps reduce the likelihood of errors, which can significantly improve customer satisfaction and boost your bottom line.

By implementing a restaurant self-ordering kiosk, you provide your customers with the convenience of placing their orders at their own pace. This not only reduces the need for additional staff but also speeds up the ordering process, leading to faster table turnover and increased revenue.

Investing in a restaurant kiosk can transform your establishment, creating a more efficient and enjoyable experience for both customers and staff. Embrace the future of dining with a cutting-edge restaurant kiosk system today!

[markthomas]

Transform Customer Experience with a Self-Service Kiosk

Implementing a self-service kiosk in your restaurant can significantly enhance the guest experience and streamline operations. eatOS provides an advanced self-service kiosk solution, empowering customers to place orders and make payments independently, creating a faster, more efficient dining experience.

These kiosks are designed with user-friendly interfaces, allowing guests to browse the menu, customize orders, and select payment methods with ease. Not only do self-service kiosks reduce wait times, but they also minimize order errors, as customers have full control over the ordering process. This leads to higher accuracy and customer satisfaction, even during peak hours.

The eatOS self-service kiosk is a powerful addition to any restaurant, as it integrates seamlessly with existing POS systems, online ordering, and in-store dining options. By reducing the need for staff at the counter, the kiosk helps lower labor costs while allowing team members to focus on delivering excellent service where it’s most needed.

[zepskies]

Smoke Eater - Part 4

Pairing: Firefighter!Dean Winchester x F. Reader 

Summary: Dean Winchester is the cocky, but well-respected Lieutenant at Firehouse 25. He leads by example, but he’s also known to break a few hearts. He’s starting to crave something he’s never had, though. Something stable. Something real. 

That’s when he meets you, on a truly terrible day, trapped in a rickety old elevator.   

🔥 Series Masterlist

Song Inspo: “Take It to the Limit” by The Eagles

Word Count: 6,000 Tags/Warnings: Major fluff alert. Some angst(ish). First date part 2…and a second date?

Part 4: Rocky Road

You enjoyed dinner more than you expected to. Dean was funny, and charming, and deeper than you might’ve expected at first glance.

He also didn’t let you even think of paying any part of the bill. In his view, he’d asked you out, so your purse was staying the hell away from the little black booklet.

The only problem was, the freely flowing conversation you and Dean had all through dinner kind of stalled after you left the restaurant. He’d chosen a spot in downtown, so the two of you walked leisurely down the sidewalk, under rows of soft overhead string lights and a gentle chill on the evening air. 

Dean had his hands in his pockets, and even that casual gait caught your eye. He looked good tonight in his black slacks and jacket. The dark blue buttoned-down worked for him too, just as well as the red plaid and jeans worked for him last night. Just like his gray lieutenant’s polo and navy pants worked for him.

In fact, you didn’t think there was anything that wouldn’t work for him.

“So, what’s next?” you asked. Dean glanced over at your question, looking a bit uncertain.

“Well, I’m gonna be honest. This is as far as I thought things through,” he said. “What do you want to do?”

You hummed and touched your chin. You paused and considered your surroundings. There were little shops, clubs, and restaurants on either side of the street. But then you spotted something nearby: a cart with a pink overhead. You smiled.

“You up for dessert?” you asked, pointing to the ice cream stand.

Dean shot you a slightly disbelieving look.

“Yeah? Ice cream after that fancy shmancy meal?”

You shrugged. “Why not? Come on.”

You looped your arm through his and tugged him along with you. He smiled at your enthusiasm and let you do it.

He later watched you try no less than five flavors of ice cream before you settled on the first one you tried—chocolate chip cookie dough. Which you ordered on a cone, with brownie pieces on top.

“The only way to do business,” you told him sagely. Dean grinned and held a hand to his chest.

“A woman after my own heart,” he said. “Here I thought you were gonna make fun of me for getting rocky road.”

“Why would I? I don’t discriminate when it comes to dessert…and only fun people get rocky road,” you countered.

“Tell that to my brother,” Dean scoffed. “He gets plain-ass chocolate chip. Every time.”

“Oh, you have a brother?” you noted with interest. “Any other siblings?”

“Nope,” he said, and accepted his cone from Steve, the guy operating the kiosk. “Just my giant little brother.”

“Giant?”

“…You’ll understand when you meet him.”

“When, not if. That’s encouraging,” you said with a smile. Dean shot you an amused grin back.

You held your cone with one hand while you rifled through your purse for your wallet with the other, but by the time you looked up, Dean was already handing over his credit card. Your brows furrowed.

“Dean—”

“This is all still part of the date,” he rationalized. His green eyes fairly danced with amusement, which you begrudgingly accepted with a sigh.

You then looked at your cone from all angles, trying to spy the best spot to start. You decided to go at it from the side. Though you tried to be graceful about it, you realized you hadn’t totally succeeded when a brownie piece almost fell off. You yelped and managed to catch it before it fell on your dress.

“Smooth,” Dean remarked. You shrugged and hummed happily while you took another bite.

“I told you. I don’t play when it comes to dessert,” you told him.

“Clearly,” he teased.

You briefly looked up at him through your lashes, making him smile. You really did have a pretty pair of eyes. And when your tongue came out a little to lick your lips, he was drawn to that as well.

And an even prettier mouth, he thought. Damn.

He raised a thumb to wipe away a bit of ice cream left behind on your lower lip. You blinked up at him, your eyes a bit wider, and he saw the bout of shyness in your resulting smile.

You shivered then with a bit of cold, whether from the ice cream or the chill on the air.

Dean’s mouth quirked, and he gave you his cone. “Hold this for a sec.”

You did so for him, but you watched him curiously as he shrugged out of his jacket. He wrapped it around your shoulders, like this was some kind of Hallmark moment.

Heh. Can’t believe Meg had it right, he thought, as he caught your blush.

“Thanks,” you said softly.

“Can’t let you catch cold in this little dress,” Dean reasoned. He tugged you in closer by the ends of his jacket.

Once again, his gaze was drawn to your face, your eyes, and finally your lips. You still held both ice cream cones between you two, but he could be careful enough to sample something else.

He started to lean in…

“Hey, man!” said Steve. “Don’t forget your wallet.”

Hesitating, Dean’s lips pursed as he turned his head to look back. Sure enough, he’d left his wallet on the counter. Letting out a subtle sigh, he glanced down and found you biting your lip in amusement.

He released you to go back and pluck his wallet out of Steve’s hand. The kid looked college age, and chilled out of his mind, like he didn’t realize he’d just interrupted another dude’s flow.

“Thank you,” said Dean, a bit pointedly.

Steve gave him a bored smile.

While you continued walking and finishing off your ice cream, you went with the flow of people coming and going; couples, families, people walking their dogs and with their children for an evening stroll.

You learned that Dean’s brother was a few years younger than him. The two shared an apartment, though Sam had a girlfriend, Eileen.

She worked at a specialty school, specifically with hearing impaired children, as she herself was deaf. Sam had learned a bit of ASL in school and worked on becoming fluent after they met. He was an assistant prosecutor working in the district attorney’s office.

“Wow. They sound like a power couple,” you remarked.

Dean inclined his head. “Yeah, they’re the smartest people I know, to be honest. They’ve been going strong for a few years now.” 

And he learned that you were an only child, raised by your grandparents, and still living in your childhood home with your grandfather.

You admitted to him that after your grandmother passed away a few years ago, you just never found it within yourself to move out and leave George alone. He still needed you…and you probably needed him too, in some ways.

“Nothing wrong with that,” Dean said. "Taking care of your people is number one."

You gave him an appreciative look. He wanted to ask where your parents were in this situation, but he didn’t want to pry if you weren’t up for sharing. It felt like something even more personal.

You then stopped in front of a beautiful French bakery. It was closed, but you could still smell freshly baked bread and sweetness through the glass doors. You leaned against them while you peered inside.

“Ooh, I’ll need to come back here,” you said, before you remembered that you did in fact have company. Dean sidled up next to you and crossed his arms in amusement.

“You want a piece of cake or something?” he teased. “I’ll get my crowbar from the car.”

You grinned. “Not the jaws of life?”

“That’d be a bit extreme for a glass door, don’t you think?” He raised a brow at you.

“Don’t underestimate the lengths I’ll go to for quality cake,” you quipped back.

“All right,” he chuckled. “I like a girl who knows what she wants.”

You’d lost count of how many times you’d blushed tonight, but it had to be a record. You turned to him, but unconsciously kept a hand on the glass door.

“When I was in culinary school, I dreamed of opening up a bakery just like this,” you said. There was the gleam of memory and nostalgia in your eyes, and Dean found himself getting swept up in it.

“What happened to the dream?” he asked.

You sighed, letting your hand fall away from the glass. You hesitated to confide in him, to reveal this much of yourself. But there was something about this man that…well, that made you trust him. Even with this part. You tugged his jacket closer to your body.

“My grandma died about a month before I graduated,” you said. “She and my grandpa raised me…after my mom left.”

Dean’s gaze gentled, while his brows drew together. That just about answered his question about your parents.

“How old were you when she left?” he asked.

“Officially? Six years old,” you replied, sighing heavily. “She didn’t want responsibilities.” 

He acknowledged this with a slow nod. He got the feeling your dad was never in the picture.

“Have you talked to her since?”

“No,” you said. “I lived with my grandparents from the beginning. She’d breeze in and out of town, from what little I remember. But one day, Gram finally asked her: When are you going to realize that you’re a mother?” 

You glanced away for a moment. “Well, after that…I never saw her again.”

You took in a deeper breath to steady yourself. You didn’t often talk about this, let alone with someone you’d just met. Yet again, you felt safe enough with Dean.

“But after Gram passed, my grandfather was already retired,” you continued. “I needed a job, not a pipe dream.” 

Dean had been listening to you with rapt attention. This was the first time he truly frowned. The wind was brushing strays of your hair across your forehead. He reached out and tucked a few strands behind your ear.

“Not all dreams are pipe dreams,” he said.

You flickered at a smile, looking up at him.

“Fair enough,” you replied.

Your eyes roamed his face this time, falling to his lips. You found yourself tilting up your chin when his face began bowing toward yours.

You felt his warm breath on your cheek, his hands grasping your arms, your hands gently resting against his sternum. By now, your heart was tripping up, double timing. And yet, you felt at ease as your eyes closed.

Only to be startled out of your wits when a dog yapped by your feet.

Even Dean jolted. His grip on your arms tightened on reflex. Both of you turned with wide eyes at the little Pomeranian that yanked at its leash. The woman holding it pulled her dog back.

“Sorry!” she called as she passed by. And she was still wrangling with the dog as she made her way down the sidewalk.

You’ve gotta be fucking kidding me. You read the thought across Dean’s frowning face. Though you felt the same way, you still smiled.

You leaned up and kissed his cheek instead.

“Thanks for listening,” you said. “I know that was heavy for a first date. I’m sorry.”

Dean’s eyes were warm when he looked down at you. You seemed to be honest and straightforward, which wasn’t a bad thing. In fact, he liked that a lot. In his experience, it wasn’t something he encountered very often with women.

Or maybe just with the women you’ve gone after, he thought.

“Nah, don’t apologize…but I’m sorry for your loss. I really am,” he said, thumbing at your cheek.

You could see that he meant it too. “Thank you.”

You ducked your head, fighting embarrassment. Not that he'd given to reason to feel embarrassed or ashamed, but you still couldn't believe he'd cracked you open like a book, without even trying. Andréa was sure to tease the hell out of you for that one.

You glanced back up and managed to spy something past Dean's shoulder. You smiled and took his hand. 

“Oh look! There’s a bookstore open,” you said, and led him farther down the path.

Dean later followed you, once again with his hands in his pockets as you browsed through each aisle. He should’ve known you were a reader. But you were cute, he thought, as your fingers brushed across certain spines of books while you scanned their titles and covers.

You glanced over at him. “I’m sorry. This must be really boring for you right now. I’ll come back another time—”

“No, no. I’m along for the ride,” Dean said with a smirk. It earned another amused look from you.

“Well, buckle up then,” you teased. You led him down to the Mystery section—murder mysteries being your favorite, you told him. He raised a brow at that.

“What? Were you expecting romance novels with telenovela-style covers?” you asked. And you draped yourself across the bookshelf, holding the back of your hand up to your forehead, like you were about to “faint.”

Dean shook his head at you, but his eyes were dancing again.

“Nah, give me a juicy mystery,” you said, as you continued to browse. “Clues, evidence, surprise twists, villain reveals…”

“Well, I’ll say that real life Magnum P.I. ain’t all that fun,” Dean remarked. That made you raise your head from the book you were inspecting and look over at him.

“Hmm, that sounds like personal experience,” you said.

He hesitated, but he eventually nodded. “Yeah. My dad’s a cop. A detective, actually, in homicide. Real Law & Order, you could say.”

Your eyes grew comically wide, and Dean had to laugh.

“Now that is interesting,” you said. “How long has he been a cop?”

“Heh. My whole life,” Dean replied. There was something behind his eyes that you didn’t miss.

“Hmm, something tells me being a cop's kid isn't all it’s cracked up to be,” you said. "Bet you couldn't get away with anything, huh?"

He smirked. "Not a damn thing. I coulda sworn my dad had cameras planted all over the house."

But no, his dad was just that good at reading him and Sam. Granted, it wasn't often that they tried to pull one over on the old man, but their teenage years had been...interesting.

You laughed lightly while you continued to browse.

“Your dad was tough growing up?” you asked. Dean considered you, and your question with a tilt of his head.

“My dad’s a good guy,” he said. “The best at his job. And he’s the toughest son of a bitch I know.”

You knew then that there was a story there, or maybe several, but you didn’t want to push it. Dean seemed to be at the edge of what he was willing to get into on the subject.

So you just nodded and chose a couple of books, which you insisted on paying for yourself. Unlike a meal or dessert, he hadn’t participated in this part, you reasoned.

“That’s not how that works,” Dean said, but he begrudgingly let you pay for your own books. You carried the bag out of the store with a satisfied smile on your face.

Dean shook his head with a smile of his own. Though he did take your free hand in his on the way back to the car.

Dean meant to take you back to your house…but maybe you weren’t quite ready for the night to end just yet. He was driving his sleek tank of a car down the main road when you got an idea. 

“Oh, we’re going to drive over the river,” you remembered. “There’s this little spot right before it where you can pull over and park, see the skyline… Have you seen it?”

Dean glanced over at you with a gleam in his eye. “I have. It’s definitely a sight to see.”

“I haven’t seen it in a while,” you said.

A smile curved his lips. “Well, that’s a damn shame. Let’s fix that.”

The Impala soon pulled into a clearing off the side of the road, just before the Kansas River. True to your memory, there was a beautiful view of the city skyline. The half-moon above sprinkled light across the water. The waves were otherwise black and choppy.

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen it at night,” Dean said. You turned to him and smiled.

“Thanks for tonight. I had a really good time,” you said.

He raised his brows at you. “We’re not done yet. You’re the one who wanted to sightsee.”

You chuckled and nodded in agreement. You were feeling a bit warm with the heating vents on you, so you unclipped your seatbelt and shrugged off Dean’s coat. You folded it up nicely and draped it across your lap.

You didn’t notice it, but Dean’s gaze drifted over to you when you bared your shoulders again, revealing smooth skin and the tantalizing neckline of your dress. Even in the dim lighting, the vibrant green caught his eye. 

But it wasn’t until the car stopped rumbling so much that you noticed the radio playing hard rock in the background. It sounded like a lot of screaming and guitars to you.

“What the hell are we listening to?” you said.

“Hmm, not an Van Halen fan?” Dean replied, giving you a chiding eye. “Aw, I don’t know if I can trust you if you can’t appreciate Sammy Hagar.”

“Oh no,” you said with a laugh. “He likes mullet rock.”

“Yes, he does,” Dean grinned. “The bigger, crazier hair the better.”

You rolled your eyes. “All right, Hendrix. Mind if we change the station?”

You hand reached for the radio knob, but Dean’s hand batted yours away.

“Ey, ey!” he said, though a smile raised the corners of his lips. “Driver picks the music.”

 You full on laughed then.

“Okay, but can we please listen to something less grating?” you asked.

Dean snorted. “All right, your highness. Let me see what I’ve got…”

You watched him curiously as he reached over on his side and pulled out a few ancient relics.

“Oh my God. You still listen to cassettes?” you asked in disbelief. Dean shot you another grin as he sorted through a handful of them. He considered you for a moment, debating his decision.

He chose a cassette and popped it in. Soon, the rhythmic melody of a guitar filtered through the speakers. You tilted your head.

“The Eagles?” you guessed. The song was familiar…

“All alone at the end of the evening, and the bright lights have faded to blue,” crooned from the speakers. “I was thinking 'bout a woman who might have loved me. I never knew…”

“Wow, all right,” Dean said, grinning. “Guess I haven’t lost you to the Bieber pop masses just yet.”

You gave him an amused look.

“My grandfather is an Eagles fan,” you smirked back. Though you patted the Impala’s dashboard. “But I guess I shouldn’t be surprised you’ve got an old soul.”

“I prefer the term ‘vintage,’” Dean quipped. He noted the way you seemed to be admiring his car. “My dad played this stuff all the time when Sam and I were kids…I guess the car’s another thing he passed down to me.”

You looked over at him then. “Yeah? He give it to you as a graduation gift or something?”

He inclined his head, brushing a hand through his hair.

“Sort of,” he said. You smiled then, shifting towards him in your seat.

“Ooh, that sounds like a story.”

He acknowledged that with a nod, though he hesitated. “You really wanna hear it?”

You rested an elbow on the armrest between his chair and yours, chin in hand, staring up at him encouragingly. Your brows raised in a “go ahead” gesture.

With an amused sigh, Dean nodded.

“Believe it or not, after I graduated high school, I wasn’t sold on the whole college thing.” His lips twisted wryly. “That was more Sam’s beat. So my dad thought it’d be good if I followed in his.”

Your eyes widened. “You were going to be a police officer?”

Dean smiled. “Well, I got into the Academy.”

That was where he met Cas, all those years ago. First, they were sort of silently competing on their scores, each wanting to be the best in the class. For Dean, it was because John Winchester had been the best. To this day, he still held some of the top scores in the region.

Meanwhile, Cas had come from a strict, religious family that drove him to succeed in whatever he put his mind to. Cas hadn’t liked Dean’s casual, joking, surface-level arrogance, thinking he wasn’t taking it seriously.

Dean had thought the guy had a serious pole stuck up his ass.

“I was about halfway through, but I just…my heart wasn’t in it,” Dean said. “Cas could see it. He asked me why the hell I was working so hard if I didn’t really want this.”

“To beat me?” Cas had asked. “To level your dad’s scores? To prove you can be him? Frankly, that sounds idiotic. Not to mention, utterly pathetic.”

Dean hadn’t wanted to face it at first, but he’d known then that his archenemy was right.

“You know…up until then, I don’t think I’d ever considered what the hell it was I wanted,” he admitted. His fingers drummed on the Impala’s steering wheel.

He knew you were listening. Just listening, like you were taking in his every word. He didn’t know why, but your quiet attention made him keep trying to fill the silence.

“So I quit,” he said. “Didn’t tell my dad…but Sam was the one who put the Fire Academy paperwork on my desk. Once I worked up the nerve, I took the firefighter test on the sly.”

“Was your dad mad?” you asked.

Dean chuckled. “At first.”

It had also been the first time he felt like he’d truly impressed his father. Namely, by not doing what John expected of him. That was more Sam’s territory.

“But after I made it through the Fire Academy, he gave me Baby,” said Dean.

He laid a fond hand on the steering wheel. It hadn't been the first time John said he was proud of Dean, but that day was still a good one, etched into Dean's memories. Sometimes it blocked out the darker ones.

“Baby?” you asked in bemusement. 

He blinked, looking over at you with a quirk of his lips.

“Uh, yeah,” he said, and swiped a hand over his mouth.

That, and the way his gaze dropped a bit, you thought he seemed a bit embarrassed. Not by his old-ass taste in music, but by the fact that he’d named his car.

What a giant dork, you thought, as your smile grew.

Leveraging a hand on the armrest, you leaned over and kissed his cheek for the second time tonight. This time you lingered a moment, leaving the mark of your lipstick behind. 

“It’s a good name,” you said.

Dean smiled back at you. Right about then, that was about the best thing you could’ve said.

He raised a hand to your cheek, brushing the back of his hand along your jaw. He settled on gently taking your chin between his fingers, before he leaned in and finally kissed you.

It started out slow as his lips moved against yours with purpose. Your eyes closed at the feel of him. Each new touch drew you in further, making your head swim with warmth, and your heart begin to race.

You unconsciously reached out and grasped the collar of his shirt. His hand moved to cradle your cheek and guide your head to the side, so he could deepen the kiss. His teeth grazed your bottom lip, and his tongue soon swept across to sooth it. You couldn't help the small, pleasant shudder that ran through you.   

You weren’t sure who stopped first, but when your eyes eventually opened again, it was to those talented lips curving into a smile. 

“Not gonna lie, I’ve been trying to do that all night,” he said, chuckling a bit.

You couldn’t help the giggle that bubbled up into your throat and managed to escape. “I know.”

You leaned against him, with your hand still curled in his shirt. Your eyes briefly lowered.

At the delightfully hair-raising feeling of his thumb brushing back and forth against your cheek, you glanced back up at him. Your smile became more flirtatious, yet still with a bit of nervous energy.

“Want to reenact the moment?” you asked.

Dean grinned and pulled you in again, flush against him this time. All while his music continued to play. You recognized another one from your grandpa’s collection. This time, you didn’t mind. 

This man might’ve been vintage in his tastes, but his touch made you feel brand new.

“What would you say…about doing this again sometime?” Dean asked.

That is, between feverish kisses on your front porch. You’d been trying to say goodnight for a few minutes now, but every time you tried, the two of you kept getting pulled back into the feel of one another.

He held you close against him, his hands molded to the curve up your hip and pressing into your lower back. Your fingers were alternatively tangling and soothing into his hair. You clung to his shoulders as his lips and tongue continued to rob you of your breath, as well as your good sense.

You were making out with this man under the porch light like you were a teenager afraid of getting caught by your grandfather. (He was probably asleep by now anyway.)

And you couldn’t remember the last time you’d been kissed like this, touched like this. The evening chill spread goosebumps across your arms, but your insides were warm and champagne-bubbly. All the while, his lips made slow, sensuous movements against yours. 

When you caught a moment to pull away, just to take in a few needed breaths, your eyes flicked up to his.

“I’d say make an appointment,” you teased. “I’m a busy woman.”

You tapped his chin with a finger, making him smile.

“Oh, yeah? Can you pencil me in…say, tomorrow at 7:00?” he asked.

“Tomorrow.” You raised a brow. “Anxious, are we?”

His smile faltered, just a little. “Too soon?”

“…No,” you admitted. If you were honest, you wanted to see him too. “7:00 is good.”

Dean was about to reply when the porch lights flickered overhead. Your brows furrowing, you turned and spotted your grandfather in the window by the front door. You didn't like the look of his smile, hinting with mischief.

“Oh my God,” you muttered.

“Did I make you miss curfew or something?” Dean joked.

Embarrassment began to heat up your face in record time. You groaned and shook your head as you turned in his arms.

“My grandfather, ladies and gentlemen.” Your lips quirked. “And his incurable wit.”

Dean’s hands fell away from you so you could reach for the door, just as you heard it unlocking from the other side. George cracked the door open a few inches and peeked his head out.

“If you wanna put on a show, you should sell tickets,” he quipped, giving you and Dean a raised brow.

“Grandpa, really?”

He laughed and ran a hand through his hair.

“Just kiddin’,” he said. “Hey there. Heard you’re the fireman who saved the cheeky damsel in distress here. How many does that make for ya this week?”

You sighed. And you pleaded with Dean, via your eyes, to be patient here.

“Well, wouldn’t call her a damsel, but she’s certainly the prettiest one so far,” Dean told your grandfather, though he shot you a teasing wink.

You couldn't help a smile. “Yeah, he’s got a caravan of us waiting back at the station.”

Dean chuckled along with George, who then gave him a more appraising look. Dean knew when he was being silently judged. He met the older man’s gaze directly.

“Anyway, sorry for crashing in. Glad to meet you, son. I’m George,” said your grandfather. He stepped out fully to shake Dean’s hand.

Dean took it with a firm, but relaxed grip. He nodded respectfully.

“Good to meet you. I’m Dean.”

“So I’ve heard,” George said, his tone a little enigmatic. “You plannin’ on seeing her again? ‘Cause I think you might be a special one. She had me approve no less than five different outfits before she decided. And I said, ‘Hun, if he’s half a man at all he wouldn’t care if you were dressed in a woolly potato sack and nothin' else—’”

“All right, is that Wheel of Fortune on back there?” you quickly cut in. A wilder blush was taking root down to your neck. You pointed back inside, where you could hear the TV playing. “I think your show’s back on.”

George’s eyes widened like he was catching on to you, reading between your lines. He “apologized” with placating hands.

“Okay, that’s my cue. Though I’ll have you know, it’s Shark Week on the Discovery channel. Wheel of Fortune’s for old people,” he quipped.

Dean smirked. “Hell yeah. Gotta love Shark Week.”

“Right?” George gestured at him as if he’d just found a kindred spirit. “A whole damn week of sharks.”

“Great! Well, sounds like the show’s back from commercial,” you hinted. Actually, you hoped he recorded those episodes. You loved a good nature documentary that made you fear the beach for another six months.

“All right, I got it.” Grinning to himself, George gave Dean one last tip of his imaginary hat. “G’night, you two.”

“Good night,” you and Dean replied, though yours was distinctly tighter, while he was more amused. He glanced down at you after the door clicked shut.

You bit your lip, meeting his eyes. “Sorry. No matter how old I get, that’s still his way of being protective.”

“As he should,” Dean said, chuckling a little. He bucked a gentle fist under your chin. “You’re like a daughter to him, right?”

Your lingering embarrassment began to even out into a smile.

“Yeah, basically.”

“With a sharp shooter like you, I’ll bet he doesn’t have a lot of chances to look out for you,” he remarked.

You inclined your head at that.

“Maybe,” you replied. You reached out to straighten the lines of his jacket. You’d managed to wrinkle him a bit since hanging out in his car by the river earlier.

“So…you said something about 7:00 tomorrow?” you asked tentatively.  

Dean grinned. But it soon faded as reality seemed to interject. “Ah…you know what, let’s do 7:30.”

His hands found your waist, but they soon slid around to hold you securely in his arms. It made a heady feeling rush through you, down to the tips of your fingers. You soothed through the mess you made of his hair and rested your hands on his arms afterwards.

“Are you sure?” you asked. Dean thought about it for a moment.

“Let’s do 8:00, just to be safe. I get off work at 6:30,” he said. He wanted to give plenty of wiggle room, just in case something cropped up.

You agreed, even though this aspect of things had the potential to make you anxious. You knew his job was unpredictable at times, but you were a planner, organized and detail oriented. And you did not like the unknown. Hence your mildly anal tendency to make checklists.

Dean could see the wheels turning in your head though.

“Don’t worry. I’ll see you tomorrow,” he said. When he gave his word, he fully intended to keep it.

So he kissed away the reservations he saw in your eyes. 

Despite the pure magic that had been last night, today, you had a suspicious feeling.

It was 8:30 in the evening, and Dean still wasn’t knocking at your door. He hadn’t responded to your text either.

You were ready for dinner. This time in a black dress, nice, short, and enticing, as your grandma had long ago impressed on you: every woman should have a little black dress.

At 9:00, you gave into your instincts and tried to call him. It rang for a while, but ultimately went to voicemail. You sat on the living room couch with a glass of wine in one hand, your cell in the other, and you frowned.

You still hadn’t moved the vase of tulips from the coffee table, and you noticed them again. They were starting to open up nicely. 

Grandpa George glanced over at you from his favorite chair, watching your mood begin to sour with both annoyance and worry.

“He’s probably just caught up on a call,” he said, and raised a teasing brow. “Maybe saving another girl from a crapped out elevator.”

You shot him a droll look. “Thanks. But yeah, he probably just got held up at work…not standing me up at all.”

Logically, you knew it was probably the first option, but the less secure part of yourself wondered.

George relented when he saw how pensive you looked, with a tinge of impatience.

“You must really like this guy,” he said.

You looked over at him with a soft frown, but you didn’t answer. It told your grandfather everything he needed to know. Even with the protective walls you tended to put up whenever you were anxious, he knew you better than anyone.

“It may not be what you think. Just relax,” he said. “He’ll call eventually. And when he does, let him actually talk.”

You huffed. But your lips formed a smile as you nodded in agreement. 

Whatever was holding Dean up, you just hoped he was safe.

However, by 10:00 p.m., you were both worried and irritated. You changed out of your dress, but you kept your makeup on in one last ditch effort of hope.

You laid in bed and watched Friends reruns. Even though you knew every joke, it usually still managed to make you laugh.

Not this time, unfortunately.

But, Dean finally called around 10:30. You let it ring a few times before you answered your cell.

“Yes, Lieutenant?” you greeted flatly.

“Hi, sweetheart,” he said. His tone was already full of remorse, but you couldn’t help it. You were feeling petty.

“I don’t think you get to ‘sweetheart’ me tonight,” you said.

“Look, uh…I’m sorry I’m not there,” said Dean. “I really am. I wasn’t trying to do this to you.”

…Damn it, you actually believed him. You heard the sincerity in his voice, along with how tired he seemed to be. And that was before he even got to the explanation.

“There was a five-car pileup on the road, and someone got T-boned on either side,” he said. “It took us basically all night to clear it up and get the injured out of there. Was a big mess. I just left the station a few minutes ago.” 

Your irritation soon fizzled into shame. You should’ve known.

“That’s…a really good reason,” you said.

“Just let me shower and I’ll come right out to you.”

You sighed. “It’s okay, Dean. Let’s just try for another time. You must be tired…”

It was his turn to sigh.  

“I know it ain’t okay,” he said eventually. “I can hear you clear as day.”

Your lips quirked wryly.

“How can I complain, Dean? You were literally saving people.”

“Doesn’t change the fact that you’re all dolled up, and I’m not gonna get to see it,” he said. A bit of his usual charm and good humor crept into his voice. It made you smile.

“And I really put some effort into this smokey eye,” you quipped. You also curled a strand of styled hair around your finger absently.

“I’m gonna pretend I know what that means, but it sounds sexy as hell,” he replied.

Your smile deepened. “Okay, what about Tuesday night?”

“Hmm…sorry, that day’s no good. I’ve got a 24-hour shift Tuesday to Wednesday,” he said. “What about Thursday night?”

“Ah…I’ve got an appointment after work,” you said.

Really it was George’s doctor’s appointment, but you wanted to go with him this time to make sure the doctor was doing his best to diagnose George’s persistent cough.

He’d also been more tired lately, you’d noticed, even after a full night’s sleep. He was blaming it on old age, but you knew your grandfather. You knew when he was downplaying to avoid the doctor, or to avoid worrying you.

“Friday?” you posed.

“I’ve got another long shift,” Dean said.

Damn it. It seemed like his schedule and yours wasn’t very compatible. You were starting to get discouraged…

“Oh, wait,” Dean said, his tone perking up. “I forgot. I’ve got this Monday off, during the day…why don’t I take you out to lunch?”

“Lunch?” You considered it with a frown. “It can be hard for me to leave my desk. I have to take a lot of calls.”

Most days you worked straight through your lunch hour. But Dean’s reply was smooth.

“That’s all right,” he said. “How about I bring takeout? Office picnic.”

Slowly, you smiled.

“Okay. I’ll see you on Monday then,” you agreed.

“Yes, you will,” Dean said. His tone was firm. “You can count on it.”

AN: Okay! How did you like part 2 of their first date? (And Dean meeting George for the first time lol.)

Hopefully round two of their second date will go better. Though Dean finally meets the infamous boss...

Next Time:

“Hey, what’s your progress on the Greenway account…oh,” said Nick, pausing where he stood.

He took note of Dean in the room and straightened his posture. His expression changed from its lazy gait, to a more tightened one. You swore you could spot a tinge of annoyance as well, like he was surprised that he hadn’t caught you alone in your office.

“I see I’m interrupting,” he said.

Holding in a sigh, you looked over at Dean and found him similarly assessing Nick.

“This is Dean. You might remember him from last week, when the elevator broke down. He’s one of the firefighters who got me out,” you said.

Your hand fell on your companion's arm. “Dean, this is—”

“Her boss,” Nick said. He seemed to lighten up and give Dean a smile, reaching over to shake the man’s hand. Dean obliged him.

“So I’ve heard,” he said.

Keep Reading: PART 5

Dean Winchester Masterlist

Main Masterlist

Series Tag List (Part 1):

@hobby27 @kazsrm67 @letheatheodore @agothwithheavysetmakeup @jacklesbrainworms @foxyjwls007 @wincastifer @iamsapphine @simpforbuckyb

@vanillawhiskeyflavoredkisses @roseblue373 @this-is-me19 @emily-winchester @spnexploration @deans-spinster-witch @deans-baby-momma @iprobablyshipit91

@melancholictearz @nic-kolas @sleepyqueerenergy @wayward-lost-and-never-found @thewritersaddictions @just-levyy @samanddeaninatrenchcoat @deanwanddamons @antisocialcorrupt @lacilou @adoringanakin @theonlymaninthesky @teehxk @midnightmadwoman @brianochka @branj19

@agalliasi @venicesem @chriszgirl92 @lyarr24 @ladysparkles78 @solariklees @xsophianicolex @deansbbyx @candy-coated-misery0731 @curlycarley @sarahgracej @bagpussjocken @ultrahviolentart @chernayawidow @beskarfilms @mimaria420

[kjupchurch-xx]

The Waitress? WattPad Request

"You know how to take an order, right?" The boss asked as she came around the corner, looking at me, holding my pen and pad.

I chuckled, "You do realize I spend 12 hours a day listening to patients explain their problems to me, right?"

She sighed, "I know, I know. I'm just stressed. I wasn't expecting Dakota to call out so last minute. I appreciate you for coming to help out." She smiled as she walked back towards the bar.

I noticed a gentleman placed in my area, so I made my way out to greet him. I hadn't noticed who he was until I was face-to-face with him. It was a very famous actor, I knew I'd seen him before but couldn't place him or remember his name.

I smiled as I looked at him, "Hello, I'm Kait. I'll be taking care of you tonight. What can I get you to drink?" I asked him kindly.

He smiled, looking up at me, "I'll take a Guinness."

I gave him a nod, "Would you like to start with any appetizers? We have excellent starters." I said suggestively as he began to look down the menu.

He shrugged, "Which one is your favorite?" He asked, still scanning the menu.

I pointed to the beer battered onion rings, "This one is really good. It's a close tie between this and the mozzarella sticks."

He smiled, looking up to me, "I'll take both." He said as he sat the menu down.

I chuckled, "I'll be right back." I said as I turned on my heels, heading towards the kitchen to place his appetizer and beer order.

The boss came up to me, "Do you realize who you're waiting on?" She asked, almost in disbelief.

I laughed at her reaction, "An actor. What about it?"

She widened her eyes, "He's not just some actor! That's Hugh Jackman!" She exclaimed.

I rolled my eyes, "Like I said, a random actor." I chuckled as input the order on the kiosk.

She laughed, "I have loved him since... like the 90s!" She said, staring in his direction.

I laughed as I grabbed a glass and began getting a pint of Guinness from the bar. Once I filled the chilled pint glass, I walked back towards the table and sat it down.

I pulled the notepad back out, "Do you know you what you're having or do you need more time?" I asked with a smile, looking at him.

He looked up at me, closing the menu and sitting it down on the table. "I'll have the steak, cooked medium, with asparagus and a side of the seasoned green beans."

I nodded as I wrote it down, "Good choice." I smiled at him, seeing him smiling at me as he observed my movements, "Your appetizers will be right out." I said as I closed the pad and grabbed his menu.

He smiled at me, "Thanks." He said as he grabbed his phone.

I walked back towards the kitchen and chit chatted with Dakota's co-workers. Once the two appetizers were up, I grabbed the condiments for them and headed back towards Hugh's table.

"Here's the onion rings and the mozzarella sticks." I said with a smile as I sat them down on the table, "For your onion rings, we have house made barbecue sauce and for the mozzarella sticks, we have homemade marinara."

He smirked as he looked at the food, then up towards me. "Thank you." He said with a nod. "Take your pick." He said.

I furrowed my brows at him, "Excuse me?" I asked, a bit confused.

He chuckled, "You said you liked both, so I got both to share with you."

I snickered, "I meant for you. I'm on shift." I said with a smirk.

I knew the boss would be pissed if she knew I upset someone like him. A bad review from a celebrity could threaten the restaurant's integrity.

He smiled, "I don't think your boss would argue too much if you had an appetizer with me. She's been gawking at me since I walked in." He said.

I laughed as I sat down across from him, "She has..." I said, as I grabbed an onion ring.

He chuckled, grabbing an onion ring. "You seem to be the only person here that isn't phased by me."

I snickered, "Is there a reason I should be?" I asked him.

He smiled, shrugging his shoulders, "Just not something I'm used to. Especially from a beautiful Sheila like yourself."

I smiled as I grabbed a mozzarella stick, "I'm flattered, thank you. And thank you for the food." I chuckled, blushing slightly.

He laughed, now trying a mozzarella stick, "These are pretty good." He said as he ate another.

I got up, remembering he'd ordered an entree. "Let me check on your food right quick." I said as I skipped off towards the kitchen.

I noticed him smirk as I walked off quickly towards the kitchen, noticing him eyeing my backside. As I made my way into the kitchen, I noticed his food was ready. I grabbed it quickly and rushed it out to him.

"Here's your steak and veggies. Let me know if you need anything, okay?" I said nicely as I sat his plate down in front of him.

He smiled as he grabbed his silverware, "There is one thing I need before you go." He said, looking up at me.

I smiled, "What can I get you?" I asked him.

He shrugged, "Company would be nice." He said with a smirk.

I chuckled as I sat back down across from him, gazing at him, taking in his features. He was beautiful. He'd noticed me looking, which caused me to quickly look down.

He chuckled,"I'm guessin' you like what you see?"

I giggled nervously, "Maybe a little."

He laughed as he cut into his steak, "I like what I see too, why I asked for some company." He flirted.

I chuckled as I crossed my legs, sitting in the chair. “I’m flattered.” I said with a smirk.

We continued to make small talk for about two hours until he left the restaurant. We spoke about his new film coming out, our childhoods, our favorite films and musicals, and his children. He was charming, he was interesting, but I knew I’d probably never see him again. He knew my likes, my dislikes and that I loved the element of surprise when it came to relationships.

One week later

As the week went by and I was back at my regular job in the medical field, I found myself focused more on him than my patients. It was becoming an issue and all of my superiors were beginning to notice.

My phone vibrated and I noticed it was a text from my roommate.

Roomie 💙: “Girl! That actor guy is back. He requested to have you as his waitress.”

My eyes widened. Had he been thinking about me as well?

Me: “No fucking way!”

Roomie 💙: “😂 Yes girl. We had to tell him you didn’t actually work here. He was shocked to find out you were a medical professional.”

I laughed at the text.

Me: “Thanks, I guess? 😂”

Roomie 💙: “I gave him your number. ��”

I smiled down at my phone. My girl. My roommate was truly the best. I shook my head, chuckling to myself as I sat my phone down on my desk to get ready for my next patient. It was a last minute booking due to a cancellation, so I quickly my things to step into the treatment room.

I lightly knocked on the treatment room door, entering shortly after. My eyes widened, seeing the man before me. He was the actor from the restaurant. Mr. Jackman. He had a big smile on his face, a bit amused at my reaction.

“Are you my patient?” I asked, confused with a chuckle, tilting my head slightly.

He chuckled as he walked up to me and passionately kissed me. I was taken back, but began kissing him back. His lips were soft. His kisses were gentle but assertive. I wrapped my arms around his neck as the kiss continued.

“How’s that for the element of surprise?” He asked, still smiling as he pulled away from my lips but held me close.

I blushed, smiling at him, “Remind me again.” I said cheekily as he chuckled, slightly shaking his head and pulled me into another kiss.