FATE AND DESIRE

Chapter 16

Zara's POV

"How do I look?" I asked, my voice barely a whisper.

He seemed momentarily lost for words and breath, his eyes darkening with a look I couldn't quite decipher. "You look..." he started, his voice low and husky.

I blushed, suddenly self-conscious under his intense scrutiny. "Is it too much?" I asked, fidgeting with the hem of my dress.

 Vittorio shook his head, a faint smile playing on his lips. "No," he said, his voice rough. "You look stunning, Zara. Absolutely stunning."

His words sent a shiver down my spine, a rush of adrenaline and desire coursing through me. I had never felt more exposed, more vulnerable, yet strangely empowered at the same time.

"Thank you," I murmured, suddenly shy under his gaze.

"Where are we going?" I asked, trying to distract myself from the intensity of his gaze.

"It's a surprise," he replied cryptically, his eyes still fixed on me.

I frowned, feeling a mix of frustration and excitement. "You're not going to tell me?"

He shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "Not yet. But I promise it'll be worth it."

Before I could protest further, he stepped closer, his hand lightly brushing against mine. "Come on," he said softly. "Let's go."

"Shouldn't you also freshen up and get ready or you are thinking of going like this?" I said looking at his somewhat exhausted face and wrinkled shirt.

"Oh! Yeah. Give me 10-15 minutes, I'll get ready," He said scratching his neck while going to the bathroom.

In the meantime, I took some photos as memories also to share with Mia later. After some time Vittorio emerged from the closet. 

Vittorio was standing by the closet door, dressed impeccably as always. I couldn't look away from him. Why is he looking so handsome after coming here? or is it just me who hasn't noticed this before? I questioned myself. He stepped into the room, adjusting the cuffs of his shirt. 

"If you are done ogling at me then can we go now? Or do you want to stare for some more time?" His voice brought me back from my imagination making me embarrassed.

"Yea-h, Yeah," I said, my voice one octave higher than usual, making him chuckle.

"Ready to go?" he asked, extending his hand.

"Yes," I replied, taking his hand and feeling a thrill run through me.

"Now can you please tell me where we are going?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.

Vittorio didn't answer, instead moving to stand beside me. "Close your eyes," he instructed, his tone gentle yet firm.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of what he was planning. But trusting him instinctively, I closed my eyes and felt his hands gently securing a blindfold over them. The darkness enveloped me, heightening my senses and turning me on unknowingly as I waited for his next move.

"Can I open them yet?" I asked, my heart racing with anticipation.

"Not yet," Vittorio replied softly. "Just a little longer."

I nodded, fighting the urge to peek. His hands lingered on my shoulders for a moment longer before he took my hand and led me out of the room.

I heard the ping of the lift as we entered the lift. Minute after he guided me towards the sound of something. As we moved closer I figured it was the sound of the helicopter. This confused me more as to where the hell is he taking me. But trusting him I didn't say anything.