Trust and Betrayal

Chapter 11: Romantic Dinner

Austin's Point of View

The thought of Brandon showing up unannounced at Danielle's office replayed in my head like a damn broken record. What the hell was his problem? Who just walks into someone else's workplace like that, especially when there's nothing left between them? I didn't know what he was trying to accomplish, but I was going to find out, one way or another.

I hated seeing Danielle upset, and I refused to let him ruin her night. That's why I decided on a surprise, a romantic dinner for just the two of us at her favorite spot, The Alain Ducasse Plaza. A quiet evening, away from the chaos of wedding prep and work stress, just her and me. I wanted her to feel loved, cherished, and safe, to remind her that none of the chaos outside mattered when we were together.

I cleared my schedule for the rest of the afternoon, made the reservations, and stopped by a boutique to pick out something exquisite for Danielle. Something that would make her feel stunning, sensual, and completely adored.

As I arrived, I barely made it to the door before I ran straight into someone.

"Oh! Watch where your— Oh, Austin. Fancy seeing you here," said Natalie, her tone dripping with fake sweetness and that same old seductive edge. I mentally groaned. Why her?

"Hello, Natalie. I'm sorry I didn't see you there. Are you alright?" I asked, forcing politeness.

"Yeah, no harm done. Just leaving, heading back to the hotel. Brandon's got meetings, so I thought I'd shop a little. What brings you here?" Her eyes trailed me in a way that made my skin crawl.

"Just picking something up for Danielle. It was nice seeing you, Natalie, but I really need to get going."

She stepped in front of me. Typical. "Do you need any help? I could probably give you some insight on what she might like."

"No thanks, I'm good," I said, trying to step past her. She reached for my arm. I yanked it back. Her frown disappeared behind her practiced smile.

"Well, if you ever need anything and I mean anything, call me." I mentally gagged. How did Brandon even fall for her?

"I'm good, Natalie. And give Brandon my regards." That seemed to offend her. I left her standing there, looking ridiculous. Desperate women disgusted me.

I got home and immediately took a long shower, letting the hot water wash away the tension and frustration of the day. Steam filled the bathroom as I thought about Danielle, how much she deserved tonight, how radiant she was going to look, how I wanted her to feel loved and safe.

Once I finished, I laid out everything Danielle would need: the midnight-blue silk gown with its delicate off-the-shoulder neckline, the flowing layers of fabric that shimmered with every movement, and the thigh-high slit that was just daring enough. Next to it, I set silver stiletto heels, a sparkling diamond bracelet, and matching stud earrings. A sleek clutch and a soft, subtle perfume completed the ensemble.

When Danielle arrived, I could see her exhaustion etched in her eyes, but the sparkle of excitement appeared when she saw the setup.

"You did all this for me?" she whispered, her voice a mix of disbelief and delight.

"You deserve it," I said softly. "Tonight is about you."

She smiled and slipped into the bathroom to shower herself while I tidied up the final details. I could hear the water running, smell the faint scent of her shampoo, and my chest tightened with anticipation. I imagined her hair cascading in soft waves over her shoulders, the water making her skin glow, her expression relaxed and happy.

After she finished, she emerged, stepping into the gown I had chosen. The fabric clung to her curves just perfectly, the slit giving a hint of leg that was elegant yet undeniably sexy. Her silver heels added height and poise. She completed the look with the diamond bracelet and studs I'd picked, subtle, sparkling, perfect.