Games Of Hearts

26. The Art of Seduction

As I opened the door to retrieve the parcel, I was greeted by a cheerful delivery boy. "Good morning! Package for you," he said with a smile. I took the parcel from him and read the note attached to it.

"Wear this dress today
~Joshua."

My heart skipped a beat as I wondered what kind of dress Joshua had sent me.

"Thank you," I said to the delivery boy and closed the door after he was gone. I eagerly opened the package and gasped in delight. Inside, I found a stunning green gown dress with strings behind the back . The dress was even more beautiful than I had imagined.

But, I had to push aside my excitement for now. I had college classes to attend, and I couldn't wear a fancy dress to campus. I quickly changed into casual clothes, feeling a pang of disappointment that I couldn't wear the beautiful dress right now

As I headed to the kitchen, I found Jamie busy making egg toast for us. "Hey, I made your favorite," she said with a smile. "But I have to run, I'm in a hurry." She handed me a plate and rushed out the door.

🌼🌼🌼🌼

As I focused on sketching the model for my fashion design project, Chris slid onto the stool beside me, his presence interrupting my creative flow. "Hey, would you like to be my partner for the freshers' event?" he asked, his voice low and casual. I looked up, my pencil pausing mid-stroke, and met his gaze.

But what caught my attention wasn't his charming smile or his messy hair – it was his eyes. They were swollen and dark, with a hint of purple undertones, like he'd been crying or had taken a blow to the face. He'd attempted to conceal the damage with makeup, but it only seemed to accentuate the discoloration.

My eyebrow shot up in concern. "What happened to your eyes?" I asked, my tone gentle but inquiring.

Chris's gaze dropped, and he touched his eye self-consciously. "Ahh, nothing... just an accident," he muttered, his voice trailing off. The way he avoided eye contact and fidgeted with his sleeve told me there was more to the story.

I returned my focus to my sketchbook, sensing that Chris didn't want to elaborate. The silence that followed was awkward, and I could feel Chris's discomfort radiating beside me. He didn't speak to me again for the rest of the class, and I wondered if I'd unintentionally touched a sensitive nerve.

As we packed up our things to leave, I couldn't help but steal a glance at Chris's eyes once more. The mystery surrounding his injury lingered, leaving me curious and concerned.

🌼🌼🌼🌼

With only an hour left before Joshua arrives, I spring into action, my excitement growing with each passing minute. I glance at the clock - 6:25 pm - and hurry to get ready for the party.

First, I focus on selecting the perfect accessories to complement my outfit. I try on a few earrings, but none of them seem quite right. Then, my eyes landed on the beautiful gold necklace Joshua gave me.  I fasten the necklace around my neck, feeling a sense of elegance and sophistication.

Next, I tackle my hair, tying it up in a sleek bun that showcases my neck and emphasizes my features. But then I changed my mind, deciding to wear my hair down for the event. I gently remove the bun, letting my locks cascade down my back in soft waves.