Silent Eyes

2, His Blue Gaze

Monica was in the midst of preparing for her hiking trip when she was startled by a loud commotion outside. Curious, she hurried to the window and was greeted by the sight of a large crowd. Hastily dressing up and slipping on her shoes, Monica rushed downstairs.

As she burst outside, she was captivated by the people chanting and confetti filling the sky. She gasped in awe at the shimmering particles. Just as she stepped out, a man turned his gaze towards her. His eyes roamed over her features, taking in her dark skin, soft lips, and beautiful eyes.

Andreas, who stood with his entourage, waved them away and made his way through the jubilant crowd to approach Monica. In the midst of the excitement, a stranger carelessly bumped into her, nearly causing her to stumble. But Andreas swiftly caught her, and they found themselves face to face.

"Be careful," he said, helping her regain her balance with a gentle touch. Monica blushed and thanked him. "Thank you..."

He towered over her like a god, his dark hair tousled by the wind, and his dazzling blue eyes reminiscent of the beautiful sea. Monica had never encountered such a handsome man before and felt unsure about how to act.

Taking a deep breath, she turned her attention to the crowd and in broken Greek, she asked, "Can you tell me what all this is about?" She gestured towards the people. Andreas noticed a hint of her foreign accent, furrowing his brows. "You're not from around here, are you?" Monica shyly shook her head, and his face lit up with a broad smile.

"Well, welcome to Greece. It's always a pleasure to see such beautiful faces!" he beamed. Then, he raised his hand to explain the scene. "Today is Pascha, so everyone is either celebrating on the streets or attending church." Monica looked puzzled, and he responded to her confusion. "It's Easter."

Gradually understanding, Monica whispered, "Oh, I see." Andreas smirked, catching her attention. "So, what brings you to the beautiful island of Santorini?" Monica was too shy to meet his gaze, so she nervously stared off into space as she spoke. "I just wanted to have a vacation, and a friend of mine recommended Greece."

With his charming grin, Andreas leaned closer, allowing her to notice the faint freckles on his nose and his long dark lashes. "Well, then consider yourself lucky," he said. Monica frowned slightly, asking, "Why?" Andreas licked his lips and seductively replied, "Because you've just found yourself a free tour guide."

Without hesitation, he took her hand, and they began to navigate through the bustling crowd. He glanced back at the flustered Monica and said, "Have you ever tried Bougasta before?" She faced him, shaking her head. "No, what is that?" Andreas smirked. "You'll find out because that's the first thing I'm taking you to!"

Andreas and Monica stood by the tantalizing Bougatsa at a food stand. The treat melted on Monica's tongue, evoking an ecstatic moan that sent a shiver down Andreas' spine. Fixated on her wet lips, he couldn't help but inquire, "Seems like you're really enjoying it. Need another taste?" Monica, still savoring the flavors, nodded eagerly, her fingers lingering near her lips.

As they continued their stroll down the busy sidewalk, Monica's eyes caught sight of a little shop, and her curiosity piqued. She pointed at it, her voice filled with excitement. "Hey, what's in there?" she asked, her genuine interest evident. Andreas couldn't hide the scowl that crept onto his face upon seeing the shady appearance of the shop. However, he couldn't resist Monica's infectious enthusiasm, and his scowl melted into a smile.

He guided her inside, whispering in her ear to stay close. Monica marveled at the artwork and jewelry displayed around the place, pacing around with Andreas following closely behind. His muscular arms were crossed, clearly enchanted by her presence. An elderly woman emerged, offering a necklace, and Monica eagerly nodded in excitement.

However, when she learned the price of the necklace, her expression turned gloomy. Sensing her disappointment, Andreas swiftly took the necklace from the old woman's hands and delicately placed it around Monica's neck. Monica was taken aback, attempting to object, but Andreas stopped her. "Relax," he said reassuringly. "I'll buy it for you." When she persisted, Andreas' gaze hardened. "It's my pleasure, so please allow me to do this."

Reluctantly, Monica accepted the necklace, and they left the shop together. As they strolled, Andreas turned to Monica and asked, "By the way, what's your name? We never properly introduced ourselves." Monica's eyes widened, and she exclaimed, "Oh, my apologies! I'm Monica!" Andreas chuckled and turned away. "What a beautiful name, Monica. I'm Andreas."

He extended his hand towards Monica, who gazed at it hesitantly. After a moment, she reached out and their hands met, igniting a spark. They shook hands briefly, and for a while, a serene silence enveloped them. Monica faced the ancient buildings, captivated, while Andreas, with his focused gaze, began explaining its rich history. Monica listened intently, hanging on his every word.

As darkness fell and a chill filled the air, Andreas knew he had to escort Monica back to her hotel. Monica pouted, expressing her reluctance. "Ah, I don't want this to end!" she whined playfully. "I've had such a wonderful time with my special tour guide!" Andreas chuckled, but concern flickered in his eyes. Aware of the potential dangers that lurked in the late-night streets of Santorini, he felt a growing need to ensure Monica's safety.

"Come on," he urged, his grip on her wrist tightening slightly. "I insist on accompanying you back to your hotel." Monica met his blue eyes with a sense of independence. "Oh, no, really, it's okay. I prefer to walk alone," she replied. But Andreas' smile disappeared, replaced by an unnerving, piercing stare that seemed to penetrate her very soul. "This is not open for discussion," he declared, his voice carrying a chilling seriousness. "What kind of man would I be if I allowed a woman to recklessly navigate these dark streets?" Monica sealed her lips, surrendering to Andreas' command. "Let me help you," he asserted.

Monica didn't resist as he took her hand, choosing to remain silent and allow the man to lead her back to the hotel. Eventually, they reached their destination, and he released her with a smile on his face. However, the unsettling feeling that had plagued her earlier remained. "You have a good night," he bid her farewell.

Snapping back to reality, Monica fluttered her lashes and forced a smile. "Oh, you too!" Suddenly, Andreas reached out, his lips grazing her hand, sending a thrill down her spine. In that moment, the unnerving feeling was replaced by astonishment. Her cheeks flushed as the rush of nervousness coursed through her veins.

"Let's make plans to hang out next time," he suggested, his voice dripping with sexiness. Monica numbly nodded, her heart racing, and he smirked, revealing his teeth in a predatory manner. "But let's call it what it is-a date." Her gasp escaped involuntarily, and he chuckled, his gaze hungry as he took a step back. Biting his lower lip, he unabashedly undressed her with his eyes. "Give me your number."

Caught in a trance, Monica pulled out her phone and handed it to Andreas. They exchanged numbers, and as he left, he seemed to revel in her nervous state, casually waving goodbye. "Dream about me tonight!" he winked. With his departure, the man was gone, yet his touch and words continued to linger with Monica.