Tangled In Time

Hidden Love

As we secured the cottage doors and prepared to return to the grand house, a spark of playful energy surged through me. Turning to Blake, I couldn't resist throwing down a challenge. "You know what, Blake? I bet I can beat you back to the house," I declared, my grin widening with impish delight. Without giving him a chance to respond, I bolted, darting into the trees like a shot. The cool evening air kissed my cheeks, and the symphony of rustling leaves and chirping crickets filled the night.

I glanced back over my shoulder, laughter escaping me as I caught sight of Blake chasing after me, his long strides closing the gap. Determined, I pushed harder, pumping my arms and lengthening my steps, the thrill of our impromptu race infusing the quiet woods with vibrant energy.

Just as I thought I might actually win, Blake's hand grazed my back. Before I could react, he pulled a surprise move, sweeping me up into a fireman's lift. A burst of laughter bubbled out of me as I squirmed and kicked my legs playfully in the air.

"Blake! Put me down, you absolute cheat!" I protested, though my tone was laced with amusement.

He chuckled softly, his laugh warm and infectious. "You didn't say there were rules," he teased before setting me back on my feet with surprising gentleness. In a flash, he took off ahead of me, leaving me to chase after him.

Breathing heavily, I finally reached the front door of the house, clutching a stitch in my side and grinning despite myself. "You, absolute cheater!" I accused, pointing an accusatory finger at him as I gasped for air. My indignation was softened by the laugh that escaped me, the kind of laugh that left you both exhilarated and a little breathless.

Blake leaned casually against the doorframe, looking maddeningly unfazed. "All's fair in love and racing," he quipped, his own grin widening.

I shook my head, still catching my breath, a mental note forming once again: I really need to join a gym when I get back home.

He laughed heartily and, with a playful tug at my ponytail, responded, "You never mentioned any rules, my dear." His wink made my heart flutter, and I tightened my ponytail giving me an excuse to look away.

"I think it's time for dinner, what about you?"

Feeling a pleasant combination of exhaustion and exhilaration, I nodded in agreement. "Dinner sounds perfect. I'm absolutely famished," I admitted, following Blake as he opened the door and the inviting, warm glow from inside enveloped us, welcoming us back to the grand house.

Blake and I stepped into the ballroom after enjoying a satisfying dinner, I couldn't help but be enchanted by the transformation the room had undergone. Gone were the remnants of the party from the night before; the tables and chairs had been cleared away, leaving behind a vast, open space that seemed to hold endless potential.

In one corner, a grand piano stood resplendent beneath the soft glow of the chandeliers, its polished black surface reflecting the room's enduring opulence. Blake, wearing a mischievous glint in his eyes, navigated his way to the piano and invited me to join him, his nimble fingers gently tapping the keys as if invoking the melodies of the past.

With a playful tease, he began, "Oh, Felicity, with hair so wild and free, your frizzy curls, a sight to see." I scowled in response; I couldn't help but smile as I crossed my arms over my chest.

He turned on the piano bench to face me, curiosity dancing in his eyes. "Can you play?"

I hesitated for a moment, pondering how much to share. I had studied music during my college years after secondary school, but I had always been reluctant to perform in front of anyone, even though I enjoyed it immensely. "I can," I admitted, "but I don't really play in front of people."