Roulette of Hearts

Meeting the Contenders

No sooner, had Daniel left that Mr. Levee returned to his position to the front of the room. "Next up we have Liam Hayes. Mr. Hayes, 28, is a laid-back photographer with a passion for capturing moments that tell a story." Mr. Levee introduced Liam as he took his seat across from Mia.

"Hi, I'm, Liam." Liam approached with a relaxed smile, his camera slung casually over his shoulder bringing Mia train of thoughts to a halt. He was younger, with an easygoing demeanor that immediately put Mia at ease. "I'm guessing you never leave home without that," Mia said, nodding toward the camera. Liam chuckled. "Guilty as charged. You'll never know when a perfect moment might appear. Like right now." He lifted the camera and snapped a quick picture of Mia, catching her by surprise. 

"Hey!" she laughed, but couldn't help smiling. "I wasn't ready!" "That's the point," Liam said, showing her the photo. It was candid, capturing her mid-laugh, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "The best moments are the ones you don't see coming." Mia studied the photo, feeling a warmth spread through her. "Okay, I'll admit, that's a good one."

They spent the next few minutes talking about their favorite places, their love for travel, and their desire to capture the beauty of the world in different ways. Mia found herself relaxing even more, enjoying Liam's laid-back attitude and genuine passion for life. The bell rang again, and Liam gave her a playful wink. "Catch you later, Mia." Mia couldn't help but smile as he walked away. Two down, four to go.

Like clockwork, Ethan Books was then introduced. Ethan Brooks, 35, a charismatic entrepreneur with a penchant for taking risks - both in business and love.

The next man, Ethan, strode confidently to the table. He had an air of authority, a presence that immediately commanded attention. He was the kind of man who could walk into any room and own it. "So, you're the entrepreneur, right?" Mia said, feeling a little intimidated but curious. "What kind of business are you in?" "Tech," Ethan replied dryly, leaning back in his chair. "I started my first company straight out of college. Now I run a tech incubator, helping startups get off the ground." "Wow," Mia said, impressed. "That sounds... intense." Ethan shrugged.

 "I like a challenge. It keeps things interesting. And you? What's your challenge, Mia?" Mia raised an eyebrow. "I didn't realize I was supposed to have one." Ethan smirked. "Everyone has a challenge, whether they realize it or not. Mine is building something from nothing. Yours... I guess we'll find out." His confidence was both intriguing and a little intimidating. Mia found herself unsure whether she was drawn to him or wary of him, or maybe a bit of both. The bell chimed again, ending their somewhat awkward, somewhat intense conversation. "Until next time," Ethan said with a nod before moving away. Mia let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding.

She was halfway through the first round, and already she could feel the beginnings of connections and the stirrings of confusion.

The next man approached, a gentle smile on his face. Noah Carter, 30, a soft-spoken doctor who believes in healing hearts as much as bodies. He had kind eyes and an air of calm that immediately soothed her fraying nerves. 

"Hi, Noah," Mia greeted, feeling herself relax again. "A doctor, huh? That must be a lot of pressure."

Noah smiled softly. "It has its moments. But I like helping people. It's what I've always wanted to do." They fell into an easy conversation about their shared love for helping others, for finding meaning in their work. Mia found herself drawn to Noah's quiet strength, his empathy. There was something about him that made her feel... safe. The bell rang, and Noah gave her a gentle nod. "I look forward to talking more, Mia." As he walked away, Mia couldn't help but feel a pull toward him, a sense of calm she hadn't expected.

With two more meet and greet to go Mia was beginning to find herself in a pickle, mentally, physically and emotionally.

Julian Bennet,31, a musician with a soul that sings to the rhythm of life's uncertainties was next. He had a soulful look about him, his eyes deep and expressive. He sat down with a guitar slung over his back, a half-smile on his lips. "Am I going to be a third wheel with you and your girl there?" Mia asked, pointing to the guitar. Julian chuckled. "Nah, Lucy here wouldn't mind nor interrupt" he smirked and patted his guitar. "You never know when inspiration might strike." he continued. "Lucy??" Mia asked, clearly intrigued. "Yeah ..."