That One Kiss

𝟐. 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧.

The first light of dawn crept into the sky, Caleb reluctantly bid Isleen farewell, his lips leaving a soft imprint on her forehead as he whispered a gentle goodbye. The call of duty beckoned, and he departed, leaving behind a sleeping beauty, her dreams no doubt filled with the sweet memories of their night together. Meanwhile, as the morning sun rose over the horizon, Isleen and Sahar stirred to life, their morning routine unfolding like a well-choreographed dance.

With a quiet hum of excitement, they prepared for another day at Brews and Bliss, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods drawing them in like a siren's call. As they strolled through the crisp morning air, the cafe's warm lights beckoned, promising a day filled with laughter, conversation, and the simple joys of life.

With a soft purr, the sleek and luxurious car glided into view, its shimmering paintwork reflecting the morning sun's rays like a mirror. The vehicle's curves and lines exuded elegance and sophistication, its very presence commanding attention and admiration.

As it slid into a parking spot, its wheels seeming to kiss the pavement, the car's occupants emerged, their movements graceful and refined. It was clear that this was no ordinary vehicle, but a symbol of refinement, taste, and wealth, a chariot fit for royalty

As the driver's hand pulled the door open, a tall, dark, and handsome figure emerged, his presence commanding the attention of everyone in the cafe. Clad in a sleek black t-shirt and pants that showcased his chiseled physique, he stepped out of the vehicle with the confident stride of a supermodel. His sunglasses added a touch of mystery to his already captivating features, while his strong jawline, chiseled cheekbones, and perfectly sculpted nose seemed to have been chiseled by the gods themselves.

A light beard framed his face, adding a hint of ruggedness to his otherwise polished appearance. His six-pack abs were visible even under his clothing, a testament to his dedication to fitness and his impressive physique. As he stood tall, his movements fluid and graceful, the collective gaze of the cafe patrons was drawn to him like a magnet, their eyes unable to tear away from the spectacle of masculine perfection that stood before them. The air seemed to vibrate with an almost palpable sense of excitement and curiosity, as if the very presence of this enigmatic stranger had electrified the atmosphere.

As Isleen bustled forward, her attention focused on distributing the menus, she was oblivious to the imposing figure standing before her. With a graceful gesture, she extended her hand, holding out the menus - but her motion was abruptly halted as her forehead collided with a solid chest. The menus scattered, papers fluttering like confetti as she stumbled backward, her hair whipping around her face like a golden halo.

Strong hands grasped her waist, steadying her, and she felt a jolt of electricity run through her body. As she regained her balance, her gaze met the warm, hazel eyes of the stranger, his sunglasses now dangling from his fingers. Their eyes locked in a flash of recognition, and Isleen's amber eyes blazed with a familiar intensity - a burning hatred that seemed to sear the air between them. The atmosphere was charged with tension, the very air thickening with the weight of their unspoken history.

He bestowed upon her one of his rare, dazzling smiles, the kind that could charm the stars from the sky. But instead of being won over, Isleen's eyes rolled heavenward in a gesture of exasperated familiarity, her expression a clear indication that she was immune to his charms. With a dismissive snort, she turned on her heel and walked away, her movements a testament to her determination to ignore the flutter in her chest.

As she disappeared into the kitchen, the stranger's smile lingered, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

Isleen's voice was laced with a hint of venom as she hissed to her friend, ❝ Sahar, please, for the love of all things good, take his order. I can't bear the thought of being in the same vicinity as him, let alone exchange pleasantries. ❞