PLAYING WITH FIRE

Chapter 7: The Date

Maya leads Carina out of the apartment, her hand still firmly holding hers. They walk down the street, the crisp autumn air filling their lungs.

Maya glances at Carina, a small smile on her lips. "So, any guesses where I'm taking you yet?"

Carina shakes her head, a curious smile on her lips. "Nope, none at all. You've been pretty tight-lipped about it."

Maya grins, clearly satisfied with the mystery she's managed to keep up. "Good. I like keeping you on your toes."

Carina playfully nudges Maya with her shoulder. "You're such a tease. It's both annoying and endearing."

Maya laughs, slinging an arm over Carina's shoulders. "I'm a woman of many talents, my love. Teasing you is just one of them."

Carina shakes her head, a fond smile on her lips. "Oh, I know all about your talents."

Maya leads Carina to a slick, black sports car. It's not overly flashy, but it's a clearly nice car all the same.

Maya unlocks the car and opens the passenger door for Carina, gesturing for her to get in. "Your chariot awaits, my love."

Carina grins, sliding into the passenger seat. "My, aren't you the chivalrous one today."

She watches as Maya walks around to the driver's side, clearly enjoying the view.

Maya climbs into the driver's seat and starts the car, the engine purring to life. She grins at Carina, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I aim to impress."

She puts the car into drive and pulls out onto the street, heading towards their destination.

Carina settles into the leather seats, enjoying the luxurious feel of the car. "So, are you going to give me a hint now? Where are we going?"

Maya laughs and shakes her head. "Nope. You'll find out soon enough. The element of surprise is all part of the fun, you know."

Carina pouts, but it's all for show. "Fine, keep your secrets. I'll just sit here and suffer in suspense then."

Maya grins, amused by Carina's exaggerated pout. "Such a drama queen."

She reaches over and pats Carina's leg. "Relax, we'll be there soon. Trust me, it's worth the wait."

Carina sighs, trying her best to be patient. "I trust you, I really do. But the suspense is killing me."

She leans back in the seat, staring out the window as they continue driving.

Maya pulls the car into a parking spot and kills the engine. They're in a moderately busy area, with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.

Maya grins at Carina, her voice filled with excitement. "We're here. Are you ready for your surprise?"

Carina grins, her curiosity piqued. "I was born ready. Lead the way, bella."

The restaurant is a upscale Italian place, with an elegant exterior and warm lighting spilling out onto the street.

Maya gets out of the car and walks over to Carina's side, opening the door for her once again.

Maya grins, offering Carina her hand. "After you, my love."

Carina takes Maya's hand and steps out of the car, her eyes widening as she takes in the restaurant's elegant exterior.

She looks at Maya, a mixture of surprise and delight on her face. "Bella, this place is amazing. But why are we here?"

Maya said "I want to ask you something very important."

Carina's heart skips a beat, sensing the seriousness in Maya's tone. "What is it, bella? What do you need to ask me?"