Bound by Loyalty Bound by Love

Chapter 8 Andrea Pov

Andrea Cortez

I yanked open the door and stepped into the dimly lit hallway, feeling the pulse of adrenaline course through me. 'It was right to leave' I think to myself again, 'theres no reason for me to ruin this mission further''. The sound of my heels clicking on the floor along with the scent of cleaning products was familiar but tonight it felt like a backdrop to my escape. The elevator dinged as I approached and I pressed the button with a confident tap.

"Leaving so soon?" a voice i'm now familiar with crept behind me.

I turned slowly arching an eyebrow at him leaning against the wall, his arms folded casually. His presence was commanding as it was unexpected. His gaze followed me with a mix of curiosity and challenge. HIs eyes where sharp and for a minute I felt the sharp edge of his scrutiny.

"Yep" I replied, adjusting my dress with a nonchalant shrug. "Got better things to do then hang out around here"

His brows furrowed ever so slightly as he pushed off the wall taking a step closer. "And where exactly are you headed?"

I chuckled the sound as smooth as defiant "Thats none of ur business"

He didnt flinch, his eyes locked onto mine with an intensity that suggested he wasnt gonna back down. "Im just asking. You look like you've got a plan amore"

I didnt miss the hint of admiration in his voice. "I do", I said leaning against the elevator wall and crossing my arms. "But plans are for amateurs. I like to wing it love" I said while adding that mocking word alongside.

The corners of his mouth twitched up " Is that so? I'm intrigued. What's the big move darling?"

I met his gaze steadily with a smirk playing on my lips "It's a secret"

He raised an eyebrow clearly enjoying the back and forth unnecessary banter we seemed to have. "Secrets are overrated, no? Besides I think you could use a partner in crime"

The elevator doors slid open and I stepped in turning to face him while clicking the bottom floor button and close door button. I had no intention of letting this man in the elevator with me. "You think so, huh? Oh well must suck" I said while the elevator doors slid to shut.

A hand wedged its way between the doors, his touch affirmative and to no surprise Alexander walked in seeming unfazed by my previous actions. What the fuck.

His presence filled the small space making it seem even smaller. HIs presence was so intoxicating with the usual mix of danger and allure.

""Back to our conversation," He continues unfazed by my attempt to leave "I think you could use someone thats knows how to keep up"

I considered his offer, the challenge in his eyes sparking something within me "Alright you're on. But don't expect me to hold your hand. I don't do sentimental"

He laughed, a genuine sound that was surprisingly warm "Don't worry, I wouldn't dream of it"

The elevator jolted to a stop, and the doors opened to the busy hotel lobby. We emerged out together, the contrast between the sterile quite of the hotel and the lively energy of the lobby sharp and invigorating.

I walked toward the exit, the cool night air hitting my face as we emerged onto the street. The city lights blinked and shimmered, and I felt the thrill of the unknown wash over me.

"So, where exactly are we headed?" he asked, his tone light but with an undercurrent of seriousness.

I glanced at him, a wicked grin spreading across my lips "That's the fun part. We're going wherever the night takes us. And trust me it's going to be one hell of a ride."

He matched my grin, his eyes twinkling with anticipation "Lead the way mi amore, although i know you love winging it," He holds out a key to a motorbike, "This could be of assistance."

I nodded while offering him a smile and we continued falling into step with one another, the rhythm of our strides perfectly in sync. As we moved into the parking garage in the heart of this beautiful city I felt a strange sense of camaraderie with this unexpected companion. We were both headed into the unknown. Together. And for now that was enough.