Arranged: Betrothed

chapter 24

After that night, when I let him see me topless, he kept trying to make me sleep like that. But if he noticed that I was reluctant, he would let it go. And I was glad he reads me so well because sometimes I felt bad for saying no so many times. He assured me it was fine.

I got ready for my freshers' party. I wasn't really sure what kind of dress code there was. I didn't really have any dresses, and I wasn't going to buy one for one party, which I might not enjoy.

I pulled on a pair of jeans and a full sleeved black t-shirt and waited downstairs in the living room for him. He said we'd leave as soon as he came back from work.

"Baby?" He called.

My heart fluttered at the sound of his voice. "In here." I answered loudly.

He strode in with his briefcase, dropping it by the sofa and pulling me up by my wrist.

"What -"

He ended my question with an abrupt kiss, still making sure he was gentle. He gave me a few pecks before pulling away with a smirk. I felt my cheeks warm up and cleared my throat.

"Are you ready?" He asked. I nodded, and he took my hand and led me to the front door. "Let's go."

"Aren't you going to change?" I asked hesitantly.

"Why? You don't like my suit?" He replied with a raised eyebrow. "It's a bit formal for a party."

"Hmm."

He took his suit jacket off and loosened his tie before pulling it over his head. Then he unbuttoned a few buttons of his shirt before running a messy hand through his hair.

"Better?" He grinned. And yes, it was better. He looked like a gangster, a really handsome one. I bit back my smile, but by the looks of it, he noticed and winked at me.

I didn't say anything and let the smile spread over my face as soon as he turned to open the door. He was so playful at times. It didn't even feel like he was older and a businessman who was feared by his staff.

We settled in the car, and my knee began to shake with nerves. It was my first time going to any party and I wasn't sure what to expect. A lot of partying and drinking, perhaps?

"You'll be okay, doll."

I bit my lip and forced my leg to still. "I know." I replied quietly. I just overthink too much, and it gets to me.

We arrived within half an hour and checked in at the reception. I booked us both in, but I still had to get my ID checked. I handed them my provisional licence and for verification. Samir didn't have to give anything in since he came under my booking. I had subconsciously reached for his hand before pausing and looking up at him. He held his hand in mine and smiled, giving it a squeeze. I couldn't stop the smile on my own face and turned around, leading him into the hall. I vaguely remember coming here with Mary when we were deciding which university to go to.

The music was blasting through the speakers, and people were already on the dance floor. Samir spotted a small booth and pulled me towards it so we could settle down.

"So?" He asked.

I shrugged, looking around the place. "I don't know what to do."

"Well, there's a bar if you want to drink?" He suggested. I made a face and shook my head.

"I don't drink. At all." I said.

"Dance?" He continued.

I shook my head and smiled shyly. "I've never danced in public."