fifteen

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i v a n a

Caelum led me through the bustling streets to a nearby restaurant.

The lively sounds of chatter and clinking glasses filled the air as we stepped inside. The place was cozy, with dim lighting and soft music playing in the background.

It was the kind of setting meant for intimate dinners, not for meetings with someone like Caelum. He guided me to a secluded table in the back, away from prying eyes. We sat down, and the silence between us was thick with tension.

Caelum finally broke the silence. "This feels like a déjà vu, doesn't it? The last time we met, we were also at a restaurant." His voice was smooth, almost soothing, and it grated on my nerves. He had a way of making everything sound casual and charming, even when I knew better.

„What do you want to drink?"

„Just a Diet Coke."

He ordered us our drinks and I sipped on it while looking away.

„What do you want to eat?"

I didn't respond immediately, focusing instead on the silverware laid out before me. I couldn't let him see how much he unnerved me.

"You look lovely tonight, Ivana," he continued, his eyes fixed on me. "That dress suits you beautifully."

I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks, and I hated that his words had this effect on me. I knew he was trying to unsettle me, to get under my skin. I had to stay focused.

"Caelum," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "Why did you want to speak to me?"

He ignored my question, his lips curving into a small smile. "How have you been, Ivana? It's been a while since we last saw each other."

I sighed inwardly, realizing that he wasn't going to give me a straight answer. "I've been fine," I replied curtly. "Just enjoying some family time."

"Family is important," Caelum mused, leaning back in his chair. "I remember the times I spent with my siblings. It can be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding."

To my surprise, we ended up having a decent conversation about siblings. He told me stories about his younger brothers and how protective he felt towards them. It was strange, seeing this softer side of him. Despite everything, I found myself engaging in the conversation.

"You know," he said, his voice softer now, "I really do enjoy spending time with you, Ivana."

I wanted to leave, the unease bubbling inside me. "I should go," I said, standing up. But before I could take a step, Caelum grabbed my wrist and pulled me back into the chair.

"My, my, those eyes like fire," he murmured, his gaze locked onto mine. "It's refreshing to speak with someone who doesn't want anything from you."

I glared at him, anger boiling over. "Why should I trust anything you say, Caelum? Why are you even doing this?"

He tilted his head, studying me. "Even though your brothers hate me, I don't hate your family. There are things you don't know yet, Ivana."

I was still wary, my mind racing with questions. I looked at him closely, noting the handsome features of his face, the chiseled jawline, the intensity in his eyes. Even under his suit, I could see the muscles that hinted at the power he wielded.

"So it's your fault my brothers had to leave and finish some business?" I finally put two and two together. Fury surged through me. "You should have chosen another time to talk to me! This is my first vacation, and you're just an arrogant prick who doesn't care about anyone but himself!" I ranted, my voice rising with each word.

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