Maybe

Chapter 57 Perfectly date ruined

Over the next few weeks, Ethan and I fell into a rhythm, one that felt natural yet electrifying. We’d steal moments together—his kisses in the elevator when no one was around, the way he’d trap me against the mirrored walls, his lips brushing mine before the doors opened. 

In the car, he was no different. He’d glance over at me with a sly smirk, lean in during red lights to plant soft, fleeting kisses that left my heart racing. I’d pretend to scold him, but he’d just laugh, making it impossible not to smile. 

Our moments together were full of teasing, stolen touches, and unspoken promises. But tonight was different. I wasn’t with Ethan. I was at a restaurant, seated across from someone else, thanks to my mom’s relentless nagging. 

My date, a man named Adrian, was polite and well-dressed, but something about him screamed “boring.” 

“So,” Adrian started, adjusting his tie nervously. “You’re in marketing, right? That must be... exciting?” 

“It has its moments,” I said with a polite smile, swirling the drink in my glass. 

“Right, right,” he nodded, clearly searching for something else to say. “I’m in finance, you know. Numbers, spreadsheets, investments... thrilling stuff.” He chuckled awkwardly. 

I nodded, forcing a laugh. “Sounds... stable.” 

“Exactly!” He brightened, taking it as a compliment. “Stability is important, don’t you think? A good job, a steady income, long-term plans—those things matter in life.” 

“Sure,” I said, my mind wandering. I couldn’t help but compare this rigid conversation to Ethan’s playful banter, his teasing remarks that always kept me on my toes. 

Adrian cleared his throat, breaking my thoughts. “So, what do you do for fun? Hobbies?” 

“Hobbies?” I repeated, stalling. “I guess I like reading, walking around the city... spending time with people I care about.” 

“That’s great! I’m more into sports, you know. Golf, tennis, sometimes squash. Ever tried any of those?” 

I shook my head. “Not really.” 

“You should!” he exclaimed, his enthusiasm a little too much. “It’s a great way to stay fit and network at the same time. I could show you sometime if you’d like.” 

“Maybe,” I said noncommittally, glancing at the clock. 

Adrian seemed oblivious to my disinterest and kept talking about his love for stocks and his dream of retiring early to travel the world. All I could think about was how much I wished I wasn’t here.

As Adrian rambled on about his retirement plans and his latest golf game, my attention drifted. Then I noticed Ethan at a table near the corner of the restaurant. He was sitting casually, his dark eyes locked on me with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat. 

I couldn’t hide the excitement bubbling up. He lifted his hand subtly, motioning toward the washroom with a slight tilt of his head. The corners of his lips curled in a smirk as if daring me. 

“I’m so sorry,” I interrupted Adrian mid-sentence. “I need to excuse myself for a moment.” 

“Oh, sure! Take your time,” Adrian said, completely unaware of the real reason for my sudden departure. 

I stood up, smoothing down my dress, and made my way toward the washroom. I could feel Ethan’s gaze trailing me the entire way. As soon as I turned the corner, I leaned against the wall, waiting.