velvet paradise (ftm x fem)

Track 16

ALAIA

Jaire pours his "famous" sweet tea into my glass. He tops it off before sitting beside me at the dining table. His generosity has been consistent since we met, but he has grown a pair of angel wings today. "Princess" has been sprinkled into our interactions along with chivalrous actions such as pulling my chair and fixing my plate.

It's as if he's buttering me up to ask a favor despite having a fortune and abundant resources. There's only one explanation for someone with everything to act so amiable: a crush. Yet, it's hard to imagine Jaire developing feelings for an artist.

While I'd never exploit an intimate affair for money or publicity, an unsatisfied artist might. The foundation of his empire, C4E, can crumble with the right slanderous accusations. He could make the artist sign an NDA. But it's best not to dip his pen in company ink. Even though I wish otherwise.

I've been resisting the allure of romance. My uncommitted lifestyle has been a stress-free path until last night's setback. Just as I hadn't counted on performing, I hadn't planned on experiencing a romantic pull towards Jaire. Though I have entertained sexual thoughts about him, new imaginings of having a deeper emotional connection with him surfaced.

Our connection reached a profound level when we performed. We transcended the physical realm as our voices lifted to the heavens. Subtle flutters in my chest, sparked by our modulations, flapped harder with every lyric sung. The passionate flurry explored my body, transforming a faint hint of fondness into irresistible attraction. Butterflies danced throughout my being as they composed a melody of their own. They crooned to the beat of my heart, gushing their regalement at my newfound romantic interest.

The sensations faded once we were backstage. Notable figures bombarded me, asking questions over each other about my upcoming career. Their words jumbled together in a rapid stream. With a glued grin and measured head nods, my anxiety mounted.

When I fixed my lips to shout for everyone to hush, Jaire took my hand. He rescued me from the clutches of the thirsty starlets. "Any information regarding Alaia Lovelie will be announced by C4E soon!" he yelled over them. As he escorted me towards the exit, he mouthed, "Are you okay?" Concern twitched at his eyebrows, but my genuine grin eased his worries.

His hand swallowing mine had an organic appeal. He used enough strength to ensure my protection while maintaining a tender hold. Once we were in the Escalade, I missed his touch. Then reality dawned on me. Adrenaline surged through my veins as I rehashed the magical moments of the fairytale night. Jaire snickered while I yelped and stamped my feet, questioning if I was lucid dreaming.

"Get used to it, princess. This is your life now," he said. His voice exhibited a velvety huskiness after an evening of singing with impeccable pitch. He flashed the diamonds on his teeth with a smile as warm-hearted and expansive as his charisma. Admiration gleamed in his soft eyes, outshining any jewel on his physique.

My lips quivered with the impulse to kiss him as I basked in the presence of his awe-inspiring bone structure. My muscles yearned to inch closer until my mouth smashed against his full lips.

I resisted, delved into my phone, and reveled in the adulation on my social media feeds. Navigating the spotlight and seeking stability will pose a significant challenge. Soon, I won't be able to hike a trail without being recognized and asked for an autograph. Fame has been a dream of mine, but I've always understood the downsides. Constant interviews, gossip, and pressure to perfect my craft can affect my mental health. Adding a relationship to an already complex equation can make solving it even more difficult. And math has never been my strong suit.

While I engaged with my inclining social media following, Rome texted me. The text began as congratulatory but ended in a booty call request. I delayed the trial of my new sex toys and hooked up with my trusty pill. Rome was supposed to erase my Jaire craving. Spoiler alert: he didn't. Rome's behavior could've ruined my lovely night if it wasn't after midnight. He ruined my morning, though.