Heartbreaker

7

The Date

As Peter skillfully navigated the winding roads, Whitney gazed out the window, watching as the lush scenery passed by in a blur. The grand estate came into view, its imposing presence commanding attention amidst the sprawling gardens that surrounded it.

Relaxing into the plush leather seat, Whitney felt a mix of excitement and apprehension bubbling within her. She was dressed in her favorite high-waisted straight-leg jeans paired with a cropped white top. Her brown skin adorned with delicate gold jewelry that added a touch of sophistication to her ensemble. Her curly hair, meticulously styled into a fro, framed her face in soft waves, while a subtle hint of makeup enhanced her natural features.

Peter brought the car to a stop in front of a castle-like mansion, and I watched in awe as he touched an intercom, causing the gate with the inscription "Havenhurst" to slowly swing open. As we drove through the loop, the grandeur of the estate left me speechless. When Peter opened the door for me, I stepped out and was immediately captivated by the stunning surroundings. A maid approached me and graciously welcomed me into the home. We traversed through a series of elegant halls, passing by numerous rooms, until we arrived at what appeared to be the back of the mansion.

I caught sight of Michael standing amidst the lush gardens, his attention focused on the vibrant blooms and stone seats scattered throughout the grounds. He looked so different from the Michael I was used to seeing in his formal attire. Dressed in a black knit sweater paired with an ivory shirt and blue jeans, he exuded a casual charm that took me by surprise. His hair, usually neatly styled, cascaded in coils down to his shoulders, adding to his relaxed demeanor.

I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement as I approached him. With a warm smile, he turned to greet me, his eyes lighting up as our gazes met. As we embraced, he planted a gentle kiss on my cheek, sending a wave of warmth coursing through me.

As Michael's lips brushed against my cheek, a shiver of excitement raced through my body, sending goosebumps cascading down my arms. His scent, a tantalizing blend of musk with a hint of mint, enveloped me, intoxicating my senses and leaving me momentarily speechless. All I could manage was a shy smile in return, my cheeks heated with nervousness as I met his gaze.

—
Michael
—

As we embraced, I planted a gentle kiss on Whitney's cheek, feeling a surge of warmth at her presence.

"Whitney, you look stunning," I complimented, my voice soft with genuine admiration.

Her response was a shy smile, her cheeks lifted with a delicate smile . I couldn't help but notice the slight stumble in her words, her nervousness palpable in the air. It was endearing, seeing her vulnerable side, and it only deepened my affection for her.

"You're beautiful... I mean, uh, handsome," she blurted out, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. It was a charming slip-up, one that made her all the more relatable in my eyes.

I couldn't suppress a chuckle at her candidness, my amusement evident in the twinkle of my eyes. Giving her hand a reassuring squeeze, I offered a gentle smile. "I appreciate that," I replied warmly, my heart swelling with affection for her.

Leading Whitney to the table, I pulled out a chair for her, savoring the moment of intimacy as she settled into her seat. The sight of her delicate features framed by her curly hair stirred something within me, a sense of profound connection that I couldn't ignore.

As I gestured towards the array of fruits on the table, I couldn't help but tease her about my pre-breakfast indulgence. "I couldn't resist eating some of the fruits before you arrived," I confessed with a playful twinkle in my eye. "But please, help yourself. I assure you, they're quite delicious."