Hearts On The Highrise

Chapter 17 : silent echoes

Engfa's pov

After sealing the deal with Mr. Alonzo, Charlotte and I were on cloud nine. We knew we had to celebrate this monumental achievement, and what better way to do so than with a lavish dinner? I spared no expense, booking a reservation at one of the city's most exclusive gourmet restaurants.

As we arrived, the anticipation and excitement bubbled within me. Seeing Charlotte's reaction when she realized the entire restaurant was reserved just for us was priceless. Her eyes widened in surprise, and a delighted smile graced her lips. I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride at being able to provide her with such an unforgettable experience.

Leading her to the table, I pulled out her chair with a flourish, gesturing for her to take a seat. "Ms. Austin," I said with a playful smirk, emphasizing the formality of the moment.

Charlotte chuckled in response, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Very gentlemanly, Ms. Waraha," she quipped, playing along with the lighthearted banter.

As we settled into our seats, surrounded by the elegant ambiance of the restaurant, I couldn't help but steal glances at Charlotte. She looked stunning, radiating confidence and grace. It was moments like these that made me realize how fortunate I was to have her by my side.

Throughout the evening, we indulged in decadent dishes and fine wine, savoring each bite and reveling in the success we had achieved together. Conversation flowed effortlessly between us, filled with laughter, shared memories, and dreams for the future.

"I still can't believe we pulled it off," Charlotte remarked, her eyes alight with excitement. "This deal is going to change everything for both our companies."

I nodded, a sense of pride swelling within me. "Indeed, it's a testament to our hard work and dedication," I replied. "But none of it would have been possible without you, Charlotte. You were instrumental in making this happen."

Charlotte blushed at the compliment, a shy smile playing on her lips. "Thank you," she said softly. "But it was truly a team effort. We make a great team."

As the night wore on, our conversation turned more personal. We shared stories from our pasts, our hopes for the future, and even our deepest fears and insecurities.

"It's funny how life can surprise you sometimes," Charlotte mused, her gaze drifting out the window to the city lights below. "A few months ago, I never would have imagined I'd be here, celebrating a major business deal with someone like you."

I reached across the table, gently squeezing her hand in reassurance. "Life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths," I replied. "But I'm grateful for every twist and turn that brought us to this moment."

During the dinner, I handed Charlotte the small, nicely wrapped box, I couldn't help but feel a little nervous. Inside was a pair of bracelets, the ones we'd seen at the market on our first day in Seattle. Charlotte recognized them immediately, their simple, elegant design catching her eye.

"You really didn't have to get me anything," Charlotte protested softly as she hesitated to open the gift. "You've already done so much for me."

I brushed off her concerns with a smile, urging her to open the box. "Go on, open it" I urged.

With a reluctant smile, Charlotte relented, carefully unwrapping the box to reveal its contents. As the lid came off, she blinked in surprise at what lay inside. It was a pair of bracelets, delicate and intricately crafted, with shimmering gemstones adorning their slender chains.

Charlotte's breath caught in her throat as she recognized the bracelets. They were the same ones they had seen at the market on our first day in Seattle, the ones she had admired and remarked upon. They weren't expensive by any means, but they held a special significance for me.