Would You Love Me, If You Really Knew Me?

Unexpected Gifts

AN: Yall have no idea how much I love it when yall leave comments! T-T  It really does warm my heart that people are enjoying my story, especially with all of the love and care I put into this story. Yalls words really inspire me to continue writing. <3 <3 <3

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Unsurprisingly, the restaurant Vlad had in mind for dinner was one of those fancy dining places. Elegant designs in decor with exquisite paintings. And of course, they had the best seat in the restaurant, sitting further away from the other patrons next to the most famous painting in the building.

However, all was not faring as well as Vlad had planned.

His sapphire eyes studied the girl before him, watching how she would absentmindedly lift the spoon to sip some of her soup. Ever since taking their photos in the booth, she had become quiet and withdrawn. Not really saying much on their drive over, nor since they had sat at the table.

Anxiety started twisting his gut. He could just feel that he was losing her attention. And that would certainly not do!

He needed to find out more about her before this date was over.

Vlad had no doubt that with his money, power, (and if necessary) ghostly influence, he would be able to eventually gain the whereabouts of her residence. But even from his initial research, he knew this will likely take time. And while he was a patient man, he could not for the life of him shake off the feeling that if he did not learn more about her this time, that he would never see her again.

Perhaps a little push was needed. After all, they are dining at one of the best restaurants in the city. The soft glow of the candlelight, soft music, and the gentle atmosphere were sure to lower any girl's defenses.

The older halfa took a sip of his wine, dark eyes analyzing the girl before him closely. "As mayor of this city," Of course he could not help but boast his prestigious standing in Amity Park. "I am quite familiar with many of its residents. Might I infer that you reside elsewhere?"

Danny's attention snapped to the billionaire and he flinched, eyes widening a bit.

*Shit!* He had not even thought to come up with some made-up backstory for Mysteria! What now?

Luckily, he had been playing the 'mysterious girl', so he didn't really have to answer.

Recovering fairly quickly, he leaned back in his chair, his soft tinted lips curling as he smirked. "Trying to figure out who I am, are we?" Dodging. Danny was always good at dodging.

And it would certainly come in handy now.

"Ah, whatever do you mean?" Vlad feigned innocence, waving off the accusation. "I am trying to do nothing of the sort."

Danny couldn't help a small smile, giving a slight chuckle in amusement. Instead of engaging in the conversation, the teen picked up his drink and took a sip.

Noting that the girl was not going to answer the question, Vlad decided to switch tactics. "Perhaps then, you would be willing to tell me how you are enjoying our small city?"

Danny looked down at his dark-colored drink, taking a moment to really think the question through.

How was he enjoying this city?

Hell, he grew up here. Been to the mall thousands of times with his two friends. And yet, it had been sooo... different this time.

Because he actually let himself free.

Free to skip when happy. Free to smile more and laugh more. He gave himself permission to look at the cute and beautiful outfits of women's clothing and accessories when they browsed the stores in the mall.