For when you need that quick fix.
A collection of romance short stories: including fluff, drama, and smut (18+; there will be a disclaimer on the respective chapters!).
***Taking requests! Just DM me a prompt/trope and any details you have in mind...
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Saudade (n): a nostalgic longing to be near again to something or someone that is distant, or that has been loved and then lost; "the love that remains"
-PART TWO-
Aliyah's POV (3 months later)
I sat at the table and adjusted my lipstick using the mirror of my compact.
Snapping it shut, I glanced back up at the man across from me.
His hair was styled neatly, his clothes tailored to his form, even his cologne was subtle yet enticing. Everything about him should have attracted me but I couldn't bring myself to really put my heart into it.
That didn't stop me from occasionally brushing my fingers across my collarbone and fluttering my lashes at him coquettishly as if I were interested. Fake it 'til you make it right?
But I was getting tired of pretending. I thought I was ready to date again. Clearly, I was wrong. I felt worse after meeting this man than I did before.
"How about we go to this bar I know nearby for a nightcap?" The man offered.
"I actually have an early morning tomorrow."I lied. "Maybe next time?" There wouldn't be a next time if I had my way.
"No problem. Would you like me to take you home?"
"No, I'll just use the bathroom and leave. No need to wait for me. I had a great time. I'll text you?"
"Sure, it was really nice to meet you, Aliyah. I hope to see you again soon."
We both stood up. His hands wrapped around my upper arms and he kissed both my cheeks before leaving.
I turned toward the back of the restaurant with a sigh and made my way to the restrooms. I really didn't want to wait outside for my Uber with him. I just wanted to go home.
The chatter in the restaurant faded as I walked down the dimly lit hallway and ducked into the restroom.
"Enjoying yourself?"
My hand flew to my chest and I nearly let out a scream before registering the dark figure leaning against the wall next to me.
"Cio?" I whispered as if I saw a ghost. I might as well have.
He took a slow breath before giving me a slow, indulgent once over.
"Lia."
My knees almost buckled at the sound of his voice speaking my name.
Three months ago I may have expected him to show up randomly like this. But he had left. After my exhibition, after looking at all those pieces that were so clearly meant for him to see, he had walked out. I thought that he would definitely speak to me after that. But I was wrong.
