Heart and Track

-14-

☆꧁༒Louisa May Pearl༒꧂☆

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Three days later

The day of the car show arrived with an electric buzz of anticipation. I woke up early, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling in my stomach. My outfit was carefully chosen—something casual but stylish, reflecting both my personal taste and a touch of flirtatiousness. I hoped it would make Holden see me in a new light and break through the remaining barriers between us.

I spent the morning making sure everything was perfect. As I was adjusting my outfit for the final time, I heard the sound of a car pulling up outside my house. My heart skipped a beat, knowing it must be Holden. I grabbed my bag and headed out, hoping I looked as put-together as I felt.

When I stepped outside, Holden was leaning against his sleek sports car, looking effortlessly handsome in casual attire. His eyes lit up when he saw me, and he pushed off the car with a grin.

"Hey, Louisa," he greeted, his smile warm. "You look great."

"Thanks, Holden," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "You're not too bad yourself."

He opened the car door for me with a chivalrous gesture. "Shall we?"

I slid into the passenger seat, feeling a flutter of excitement. As we drove to the car show, the conversation flowed easily. Holden was his charming self, and the playful banter we shared was a welcome change from the recent tension.

When we arrived at the car show, the scene was buzzing with energy. Enthusiasts were admiring the cars, and the smell of engine oil and the hum of excited voices filled the air. Holden and I made our way through the exhibits, and I couldn't help but notice how his presence drew attention. It was clear that he was a star in this environment.

We stopped by various cars, and I tried to maintain a flirtatious edge while keeping the conversation light. My touches were playful and lingering, brushing against his arm or shoulder. Holden seemed more at ease as the day went on, responding positively to my efforts.

Just as we were enjoying some snacks from a food stand, I noticed a group of paparazzi at the edge of the crowd. They seemed to be focused on us, their cameras flashing intermittently. My stomach tightened with a mix of anxiety and curiosity.

"Holden," I said quietly, glancing at the photographers. "Looks like we're attracting some attention."

He followed my gaze and sighed. "Seems like it. They're always around."

Holden glanced over at the paparazzi with a resigned smile. "Just try to ignore them. They're usually harmless, just doing their job" He said. I know he is famous but I never thought paparazzi will follow him like this. 

Despite the presence of the paparazzi, Holden remained relaxed. We continued our stroll, and I made sure to keep up the playful and flirtatious energy. We ended up at a café nearby, where we settled into a cozy corner booth. As we enjoyed our coffee, the conversation flowed smoothly. Holden was more open, sharing stories about his racing experiences and his life outside the track. The warmth between us felt genuine, and it seemed like we were finally breaking through the barriers that had separated us. As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the café, I looked at Holden with a genuine smile. 

"I had a really great time today. Thanks for coming out and spending the day with me." Holden's smile mirrored mine, and he reached across the table, taking my hand in his. 

"I did too, Louisa. It's been nice getting to know you better outside of our usual setting." I felt a flutter of excitement at his touch and the warmth in his gaze. It was clear that we were making progress, and I was hopeful for what the future might hold for us. 

As we finished up our coffee and prepared to leave, Holden gave me a thoughtful look. "So, what's next on your agenda? Any more surprises in store?" I grinned, feeling a playful glint in my eye. 

As we wrapped up our coffee date, I couldn't help but let my flirty side shine through. The connection we'd built over the day was undeniable, and I was eager to explore where this newfound closeness could lead. I called it as a date even though Holden didn't even know it is a date. 

As we stood up from the table, I made sure to linger close to Holden, brushing my arm against his as we walked out of the café. The evening air was crisp, and the soft glow of the streetlights created a romantic atmosphere.

I tilted my head, a teasing smile playing on my lips. "Well, I've heard there's a new ice cream place that just opened up nearby. How about we go check it out? I promise I won't judge you if you want to get a double scoop."

Holden's eyes sparkled with interest, and he leaned in slightly, his voice playful. "Double scoop, huh? I might just have to take you up on that."

I laughed, enjoying the easy flirtation between us. "It's a deal, then. Let's go!"

As we made our way to the new ice cream spot, the conversation continued to flow effortlessly. Holden was clearly more relaxed, his responses to my playful comments becoming more engaged. We joked and flirted as we walked, our chemistry evident.

When we arrived at the ice cream place, we both eagerly picked out our flavors and enjoyed the treats together. I made sure to playfully tease him about his choices, and he responded with equally flirtatious remarks.

"You know," Holden said with a grin, licking his ice cream cone, "I think this might be the best ice cream I've ever had. But I have to say, spending the day with you has been even better."

I felt a flutter of excitement at his words, and I playfully nudged him with my shoulder. "Smooth talker, aren't you? Well, I'm glad you're enjoying both the ice cream and the company."

As we finished up our ice cream and walked back toward my house, I felt a sense of satisfaction and anticipation. The day had been a success, and the flirty, playful energy between us had created a genuine connection.

Before we reached my house, I turned to Holden, my voice soft but flirtatious. "I really had a great time today, Holden. I'm glad we took this chance to get to know each other better."

Holden's expression was warm and sincere. "Me too, Louisa. It's been nice to see a different side of you, and I have to admit, I'm looking forward to more moments like this."

We reached my front door, and I hesitated for a moment, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "So, how about we plan another adventure soon? I think we're onto something here."

Holden smiled, his eyes reflecting his interest. "I'd like that. Let's definitely plan something."

As we said our goodbyes, Holden leaned in and gave me a gentle, lingering kiss on the cheek. The gesture was sweet and affectionate, and it left me with a warm, fluttery feeling.

"Goodnight, Louisa," he said softly.

"Goodnight, Holden," I replied, my voice filled with genuine affection.

As I closed the door behind me, I felt a renewed sense of hope and excitement. The day had been a success, and I was eager to see where this new, more genuine connection with Holden would lead.

_____

It is a date or just a normal hangout? I called it a one-sided date!