Hearts On The Highrise

Chapter 16 : city lights and heartbeats

As Engfa and I explored Seattle together, the city revealed itself in a whole new light. The vibrant streets, the bustling markets, and the scenic waterfront all seemed to come alive with each step we took. Engfa had this magnetic energy about her that made every moment feel special, almost like we were in our own little world.

Walking through the picturesque streets of downtown, Engfa couldn't help but make a cheeky remark about the way I kept glancing at her. "You know, if you're going to stare at me like that, you might as well just admit you're smitten," she teased, flashing me a mischievous grin.

I scoffed, trying to play it cool despite the heat rising to my cheeks. "Please, don't flatter yourself," I replied, trying to mask the fluttering in my chest. "I'm just appreciating the view."

Engfa chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Is that so?" she murmured, her breath brushing against my ear. "Well, lucky for you, the view's even better up close."

I couldn't suppress the blush that crept up my cheeks at her bold remark, but I forced myself to maintain my composure. "Is that your way of inviting me for a closer look?" I shot back, unable to resist the urge to flirt back.

Engfa's laughter filled the air, her gaze locking with mine in a silent challenge. "Maybe," she replied coyly, her lips curving into a playful smile. "But you'll have to keep up if you want to see more."

With each exchange, the tension between us grows, our words grow bolder and our gazes linger a little longer than necessary.

As we wandered the bustling streets of Seattle, I couldn't help but marvel at the city's vibrant energy. Engfa and I explored quaint cafés, enjoyed delicious meals (me the foodie) and simply enjoyed the sights and sounds of the city.

Engfa couldn't resist teasing me about my insatiable appetite for pastries. "I swear, Charlotte, you're going to put Seattle's bakeries out of business," she chuckled, nudging me playfully.

I rolled my eyes, feigning offense. "Hey, a girl's gotta eat, right? And who's the one finishing off that second slice of pie?"

Engfa grinned mischievously. "I have a fast metabolism. It's all those late-night business calls burning calories."

I laughed. "Sure, blame it on the business calls. Next thing you know, you'll be saying you're too busy to indulge in any more desserts."

Engfa raised an eyebrow, her gaze playful. "Never say never, Charlotte. You might just find me sneaking a cupcake when you least expect it."

Her words sparked a warm feeling inside me, and for a moment, I forgot about everything else – the guilt, the uncertainty – and simply reveled in the easy camaraderie between us.

We felt liberated to spend an entire morning and afternoon without the weight of work. Despite the guilt that nagged at the back of my mind about Mew, I put it aside, knowing I'd deal with it when I got back.

As I filmed Engfa's antics, I couldn't help noticing another side to her, a vulnerable, almost childlike side.

It was as if she'd shed her mask of stoicism and business acumen, revealing genuine warmth and humor. In those moments, I felt even more drawn to her, appreciating the complexity and depth of the woman at my side.

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As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden glow over the Seattle skyline, Engfa and I found ourselves on a secluded bench overlooking the city. The view was breathtaking, but I couldn't shake the nagging questions swirling in my mind.

After a moment of hesitation, I turned to Engfa, my voice soft with uncertainty. "Hey, Engfa... Can I ask you something?"

Engfa turned to me, her expression gentle. "Of course."