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"A casual outing between friends," I explain.
She chews on her lower lip, that perfectly shaped bow, and I’m captivated by the slight movement. Dear lord, and I suggest we go as friends!
We’ve already passed that point. It’s going to be impossible to think of her as just a friend. The silence stretches awkwardly between us.
"Alright, I can do dinner" she finally agrees, her melodic voice soothing my soul. "Just dinner, though."
"Perfect," I respond, trying to control my excitement. I'll make the reservation for seven. Can I pick you up at…?"
“No,” she says rather quickly, looking almost nervous. I frown. Does she not want me to see her place? Perhaps she’s embarrassed to show me where she lives, or perhaps she’s afraid of the kind of trouble I might bring to her doorstep.
If I could only prove to her that she has nothing to fear when she’s with me, with time. But, for now, I simply nod.
"It’s just," Romola tries to explain away the awkwardness, “I'd rather meet you at a specific location instead of having you pick me up. It’s just easier that way."
"Of course," I reply, trying to hide my disappointment. "Whatever is more practical for you. Meet me back here at the compound at 5:30 pm for sunset, and then we'll head out together."
"Alright," she nods, now fully dressed. She stands up and gathers her things. "I'll see you then, Fiero."
To walk out of the door, she must pass me. Our bodies face each other, and she stands there for a moment, locking eyes with me. Neither of us said a word, and we were both wondering how to say goodbye after last night.
If I could manipulate the situation by sheer willpower, I would slam my lips against hers, take her in my arms and drag her back to bed. But I’m not a magician or a mind-bender, so I’ll do as I promised—treat her to a friendly dinner and maintain a semblance of chivalry.
I reach down, my lips grazing her cheekbones. I give her a small, gentle kiss and pull back. “I’ll see you in the evening,” I say.
“Yup, see you,” she blushes, her voice hoarse. She averts her gaze and turns her back to me.
I know in my bones she wanted my lips to hers.
I watch her walk away, her long, thick, brown hair swaying with each step. She possesses an inescapable magnetism, a power that draws me to her.
Regardless of what I might have told her, one thing is certain: tonight's dinner will be more than just a casual meal between friends. It will be a chance to explore the depths of this enigmatic woman and, perhaps, uncover whether the irresistible pull that binds me to her is just imaginary, a fleeting infatuation, or something more
The door clicks shut behind Romola, and I find myself suddenly anxious to make this evening unforgettable. I dart out of the cottage and make my way to my compound.
"Rico!" I yell, my voice reverberating through the hallways of the compound. Within seconds, one of my most trusted men appears at the doorway, looking concerned.
"Is everything okay, boss?" he asks, taking in my hurried appearance. “You weren’t in this morning, and the cooks were getting scared.”
"Tonight," I begin, pausing to catch my breath. "I need the private garden transformed into a scene straight out of a magical land. Think big, Rico."
"Understood, boss. What are your specific instructions?"
"First, butterflies. Hundreds of them - release them near the flowers. Light up the place. Make sure that the rabbits and ducks are fed along the pathways and are in sight tonight. Bring in the finest crystal glasses and silverware, the vintage champagne…" I rattle off, with each new idea fueling my excitement.
"Add an ice sculpture or two,” I continue. "And don't forget the musicians - a quartet playing classical music that speaks to the soul."
"Very well, boss. We'll get right on it," Rico says, nodding his head in understanding.
"Wait, one more thing," I add, gripping his arm before he turns to leave. "A small, intimate gazebo should be set up near the edge of the garden, where we can watch the sunset together."
"Must be some special lady," Rico replies, a knowing smile tugging at his lips.
“Rico,” I growl at him to mind his business. He raises his hands in the air, shrugging, a teasing look on his face. " Consider it done.” I laugh, knowing he means no harm.
He disappears down the hallway, but I stand there for a moment, thinking. The truth is, opening myself up to the possibility of love is exhilarating. It’s a concept I’ve never had time for, and yet, for the first time in my life, I feel truly alive - and it's all because of her.
Chapter 29
