The night we met.

chapter 1.

It was midnight when I encountered her, seated on a bench, crying her heart out. Her sobs weren't loud, but they echoed in my ears as I passed by. The sentiment in my heart urged me not to leave that girl alone, especially in this dark and abandoned park.

I halted, observing her from a distance. The girl wiped away her ceaseless tears as she continued to sob. My heart ached in witnessing the scene. Slowly, I approached her, making an effort not to startle her.

Her crying sounds fade with each step I take. I sit beside her and exhale. 'Is everything okay?' I ask her, uncertain whether she will respond or leave.

It was a minute of silence when she glanced at me, tears filling her eyes. In that moment, I thought, 'This girl needs company'.

She shook her head and looked down. I attempted to reassure her by expressing my presence and inviting her to share anything that might be troubling her. Despite her continued silence, a soft smile gradually appeared on her lips.

She mouthed a 'thank you.' I could discern that her voice was hoarse. I smiled back, offering her a comforting presence, and slowly stood up. I extended assistance by offering her a helping hand, and she, in turn, accepted my gesture, rising to her feet.

I subsequently guided her to the central area of the park adjacent to a small pool, where we gracefully danced to the rhythm until an unforeseen rainfall commenced. The raindrops cascaded smoothly down her hair, and she maintained a radiant smile as our dance persisted. In her current state, she exuded a captivating beauty that was truly enchanting.

After a few contemplative minutes, I finally found the courage to inquire about her name. She paused, gazing at me with a graceful smile. 'Ophelia,' she said, her voice carrying a hint of warmth. My heart ached at the thought of who would do such a thing, causing harm to a precious, innocent girl and shattering pieces of her heart.

'The name is Elias. Nice to meet you, Ms. Ophelia,' I said, bowed to her in a gentlemanly manner. She giggled in response to my gesture. 'Would you mind if I take you on a date tomorrow night?' I asked, gently kissing the palm of her hand. A subtle warmth lingered as she considered my invitation, her eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and anticipation.

'Well, to earn my acceptance, you must win my heart,' she winked playfully. We both laughed and continued to talk all night long. It was a remarkably interesting and enjoyable evening, only concluding as the rays of sunlight gently shaded her beautiful eyes. Only then did I realize that I had forgotten about the meeting with an old friend of mine that was supposed to occur last night, at 1 am. Well, it's not a mystical meeting, just the two of us finally having free time to talk to each other.

I then excused myself and immediately ran towards an old cottage beside the park. I knocked on the door gently, so as not to disturb the other neighbors. The door slowly opened, revealing a friend of mine who seemed unamused by our forgotten meeting. After long minutes of apologizing, he finally accepted my apology, and we continued to talk about the old times as well as the present. The only thing that continuously ran through my mind was Ophelia.

The night falls as the sun starts to set. I am currently in my room, surveying a few of my suits to wear for my night out with Ophelia. And, of course, I managed to get her number before excusing myself to meet my friend. After trying out all the suits, I finally decided to wear the one I used to wear to my sister's wedding. It looks elegant, resonating with the fond memories of that joyous occasion, and showcasing my sister's impeccable taste in fashion.

Then, at exactly 8 o'clock, I turned on my car engine and sped up to her designated place to pick her up. Exiting the car, I went inside to guide her out when I stumbled upon a girl who looked like a goddess. She was smiling gracefully, her dress perfectly complementing her figure.

'How do I appear, Elias?' she inquired, still adorned with her resplendent smile. I gracefully grinned, taking her hand. 'You look exceedingly elegant, Ophelia.' I then bestowed a gentle kiss upon her hand. She responded with a delightful giggle, delicately covering her mouth with her other hand. We proceeded to walk together, hand in hand, towards the car. I courteously opened the passenger door for her, and with grace, she took her seat. Subsequently, I settled into the driver's seat and commenced the drive to our chosen dinner venue.

We were engrossed in conversation when we suddenly encountered an unavoidable traffic jam. I exhaled in frustration; this was supposed to be a delightful evening, I thought. Soon, I felt a comforting hand on my shoulder. She gestured that it's okay. I then smiled, and we continued our conversation throughout the delay.

After an extended period of time, we arrived at the venue I had previously arranged for our evening. I parked the car and escorted her, hand in hand, into the restaurant - a renowned establishment in town, recommended by my friend earlier that morning.

The butler then guided us to our reserved table and promptly served our dinner. The evening unfolded, and we both experienced a delightful and enjoyable time together.

After concluding our dinner together, we engaged in thoughtful conversation, savoring the lingering flavors of the meal as we continued our evening. Then her phone rang; she asked me if she could take the call, and I nodded. After the call ended, she excused herself to leave. I asked if she needed a ride home, but she politely declined. She expressed happiness and gratitude for the enjoyable evening and mentioned a desire to meet again soon. I smiled as she left the restaurant.

If fate allows, he wishes to meet her every day and get to know her better.

To Be Continued.