BLACKMAILED BY THE BILLIONAIRE

Chapter 13: Twisted Game, Unexpected Player

Chapter 13: Twisted Game, Unexpected Player

Lisa and I were lounging on her comfy couch, feeling as content as pampered kittens. Earlier, Sam had called with a husky apology and his usual charm, explaining his unexpected business trip. Now, he was back, offering to take me out to dinner - and I eagerly accepted.

"Dinner tonight!" I exclaimed, holding onto my phone tightly. Lisa, the expert matchmaker, was thrilled. "Yes, girl! Get ready to impress Sam," she said excitedly.

The day had been strange with Harry suddenly taking a two-day break. Was it a power move or a genuine gesture? I pushed aside those thoughts, focusing on Sam's invitation like a shiny new outfit.

With Lisa as my hype-woman and personal glam squad, the apartment transformed into a pre-date oasis. Makeup brushes became magic wands, eyeshadow a whispered promise of smoldering seduction. "That emerald dress?" Lisa declared, eyes gleaming like disco balls. "Weapon of mass flirtation. You'll have Sam drowning in your eyes before the appetizers arrive."

The buzzer's shrill cry pierced my pre-date jitters. By the time I reached the door, I was studying emerald confidence. My nerves hummed like the city outside, a vibrant symphony of anticipation.

When I threw the door open, Sam's smile was a burst of Times Square neon, dazzling and impossible to ignore. Gone was the casual professor, replaced by a Wall Street charmer in a tailored suit "Wow, Bella," he breathed, his gaze lingering on the emerald dress that hugged my curves like a whispered promise. "You look...breathtaking."

Heat bloomed in my cheeks, momentarily banishing the traitorous thought of Harry. (Seriously, brain, new guy alert!) Lisa, ever the hype queen, winked and shimmied out the door, leaving us to the intoxicating aroma of Sam's cologne and the promise of a perfect night.

His sleek black car, purring like a satisfied cat, whisked us into the heart of the city. The ride was filled with nervous laughter and Sam's charming presence. His deep voice was like a soothing rumble, making me feel special amidst the hustle and bustle of rush hour.

The hidden restaurant was filled with soft conversations and the sound of glasses clinking. The gentle candlelight made the brick walls feel cozy, almost like time was melting away, just like sugar dissolving in a cocktail. We savored our tasty gnocchi, sharing laughs that drowned out the city's noise.

Whenever our eyes met, there was a comforting warmth that sent a delightful shiver down my spine. This wasn't merely a dinner; it felt like the start of something unique, an unspoken promise in the smoky air, a spark in the soft, dim light.

"So Bella," he said, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down my spine, "I really like you already. Any chance we can do this again, maybe skip the questionable fashion choices next time?"

His smile was disarmingly genuine, sending a blush blooming across my cheeks. Dating had become a foreign concept after five years of "Harry on emergency call" dictating my life. But with Sam, it felt effortless, like slipping into a favorite sweater.

"I'd love to," I stammered, and his grin widened like he'd just won the lottery. He captured my hand, his fingers warm and calloused against my skin.

"Excellent," he declared, his eyes twinkling. "Now, tell me your wildest childhood dream. Did it involve rescuing kittens from trees or winning the Nobel Prize in polka dancing?"

I couldn't help but laugh, the sound filling the cozy, intimate space we found ourselves in. "Maybe a bit of both," I replied with a playful grin.

Our laughter intertwined, casting a warm, inviting light around us. "I'm really enjoying my time with you, Bella," he confessed, the sincerity in his voice wrapping around me comfortingly.