In the gritty realm of the Italian-American mafia, Avery Fernández, a diligent and punctual worker at a construction company, crosses paths with Eric Giovanni Moretti, the audacious and enigmatic scion of the notorious Moretti family. Tasked with th...
Just as the intensity seemed to reach its peak, Eric's phone abruptly rang, breaking the spell. He glanced at the caller ID, and it was evident that this was an important call.
Answering the phone, Eric walked out of the open kitchen, leaving me sitting there, still processing the whirlwind of emotions. The abrupt shift from the intimate moment to the business-like call left me feeling a bit disoriented.
I took a deep breath, collecting myself, and by the time Eric returned, I was standing, ready to leave. He wasn't as cold this time, his focus still on the call as he briefly glanced in my direction.
"Send a text when you reach."
_
Lying on my bed, the warm hues of the evening fading light painting my room, I couldn't shake off the restlessness. Thoughts of the day's intense encounter with Eric played on repeat, making it impossible to find peace. Sighing and fidgeting, I wished for a distraction.
Just then, my phone buzzed, and Noah's name lit up the screen.
Noah, my friendly 23-year-old neighbor, always brought a sense of comfort. Our interactions were simple - borrowing sugar or coffee, the occasional chat in the hallway. His text offered a welcomed escape - dinner on him, a celebration of his recent freelancing success.
A smile tugged at my lips. This was precisely what I needed. A casual dinner with Noah. I quickly replied, "Sure thing, Noah! Dinner sounds amazing. Thanks for the treat. Where are we heading?"
Just then the doorbell echoed through my apartment, and as I opened it, there stood Noah with a smile. Without wasting a moment, he walked in, already stretching his arm, "Come on, Avery! Dinner's on me today. Let's make the most of it!"
I couldn't help but chuckle at his enthusiasm, coupled with a hint of annoyance. "Alright, alright. Let me just put on something better," I replied, rolling my eyes slightly.
As I headed to my room to change, I couldn't help but appreciate Noah's easygoing nature. His presence was a would always cheer me up.
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After a quick wardrobe change, I opted for a cute casual sundress - comfortable yet stylish enough for a spontaneous dinner outing.
As I made my way back to the living room, Noah grinned approvingly. "Looking good, Ev! Now, let's head out. I know a great place downtown; you're gonna love it!"
_
As we strolled through downtown, the city lights cast a subtle glow in the night.
Amidst the familiar buildings, a new addition emerged - a bar adorned with vibrant neon lights, standing out against the urban backdrop. Its entrance beckoned with the promise of lively energy and a crowd of people eagerly making their way inside.
Noah's eyes widened, and he exclaimed, "Whoa, when did this place pop up? Looks like a hidden gem!"
The neon-lit place which read "Lumina Lounge". Noah suggested, "Hey, why not check it out? We've never been here before, and who knows, it might be our new favorite spot!"
The idea of spontaneity and exploration resonated, although I was pretty sure I wasn't gonna drink tonight.
The Lumina Lounge was lively and full of energy as Noah and I stepped inside. The music was loud, and people were dancing everywhere. The club had many floors, a big bar, and colorful lights flashing all around. It looked exciting, but I was a bit nervous too.
The club seemed fancy, and I worried if it would be too expensive. I nudged Noah, suggesting we might enjoy at a simpler diner instead.
Noah, with a big smile, said, "Come on, let's have some fun! It's been so long since I had a good time, and you're the perfect friend to enjoy it with. Besides, I can totally pay for it now."
His confidence eased my concerns, and we headed towards the impressive bar. The bartender was friendly, and the menu had many colorful drinks named after stars and galaxies. Noah, being adventurous, ordered a "Galactic Goblet," a mix of fruits and drinks promising a unique taste. I went for a classic mojito.
The Lounge had a magnetic charm that drew people in. When our drinks arrived, they looked fancy with decorations. Noah raised his Galactic Goblet, and I clinked my mojito against his drink. The first sips were full of different flavors. I had no idea what they put in to make them taste so good!
Amidst the lively crowd, I suddenly caught sight of a familiar figure. Through the sea of people, his brown, luscious hair was unmistakable - it was Eric. He sat on a plush lounge sofa at the far end of the floor, surrounded by people who exuded importance and sophistication, much like him.
Surprise and curiosity danced in my slightly tipsy mind. What was Eric doing here?
The Lumina Lounge seemed like an unexpected place to find him. Private my ass! Didn't he say that drinking and partying wasn't really his scene of choice? Dirty little liar. I mean I wouldn't call him little bit whatever. Not that he owes me the truth. He doesn't owe me anything, in fact.
My thoughts were interrupted when Noah playfully tugged at my arm, "What's got you staring at... nothing?"
"That guy over there, the one walking with that group? I recently sold him a penthouse. It was a big deal for me, a breakthrough for my work."
Noah's eyes widened with genuine excitement. "That's amazing! Do you want to go say hi? Maybe he'll buy you a drink in gratitude."
I laughed, shaking my head, "No, he's not exactly the 'buy-you-a-drink' type. In fact, he's quite the opposite."
As we continued our night, immersed in the vibrant atmosphere, I couldn't help but steal glances toward Eric's approaching group. The lively chatter of the club surrounded us, but in that moment, our eyes locked. It was as if time slowed down.
Shit! He saw me. Would he think I'm stalking him or something?
However, as quickly as our eyes connected, Eric diverted his attention, continuing his conversation with the men beside him. I felt a mixture of disappointment and relief. Maybe it was better this way.
Noah briefly leaves for the washroom.
As I stared into my drink, the alcohol making my head spin, a smooth and familiar voice sliced through the cacophony of the club.
"Surprised to see you here, Ms. Avery."
My gaze lifted, and there he was, Eric, standing tall and composed, his presence commanding attention. The alcohol emboldened me, and I retorted, "Surprised to see you too, Mr. 'I'm-a-very-private-man.'"
Eric tilted his head, an amused smirk playing on his lips. "I'm here to congratulate a friend on opening this club," he explained.
Feeling the effects of the alcohol, I couldn't help but respond with a hint of tipsy sarcasm, "Woah, of course, you have... crazy... rich friends."
His eyebrow arched, and his gaze remaining, "And you said you didn't have any. Boyfriend then?" he inquired, his question hanging in the air, laden with unspoken implications.
Caught off guard by the sudden shift, I stammered, "N-no, no boyfriend. Just... enjoying the night."
Eric's eyes bore into mine, his expression unreadable.
