Captured by Desire

𝕿𝖜𝖊𝖑𝖛𝖊

If you think I'm pretty by Artemas

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If I said I listened to Kamala and cut off all contact with Ruby, I'd be lying. The truth is, Ruby texted me last night while I was at my apartment. She asked if I wanted to go on a date after work, and I told her I'd love to. Did I feel guilty for going behind Kamala's back? Absolutely. But it didn't feel right to just drop Ruby out of the blue either. Staying loyal to someone who's married is harder than I expected.

I stood on the sidewalk just outside the White House gates, waiting for Ruby. I'd told her I'd meet her there, mostly to avoid Kamala seeing us leave together. Besides, I didn't trust anyone else who might be watching. After only a few minutes of waiting, I felt someone quietly step up beside me.

"Hey, you ready?" Ruby's voice broke the silence, causing me to turn and meet her gaze.

"Are you finally going to tell me where we're headed?" I asked with a soft chuckle.

"It's a surprise," she said with a smile. "It's my favorite Italian spot, and it's close enough for us to walk there."

"I hate surprises."

"Well, the sooner we start walking, the sooner the surprise will be revealed."

"Rude," I teased, rolling my eyes playfully, which made her laugh. "Come on, let's go—I'm getting impatient."

We started down the sidewalk, falling into an easy rhythm as we walked side by side. The conversation flowed naturally, our voices blending with the sounds of the city around us. We passed a few bustling blocks, chatting about everything from work to little moments we hadn't had time to share. The closer we got to our destination, the more relaxed I felt, enjoying the mix of light banter and the anticipation of what the evening might hold.

"Here we are," Ruby said with a hint of excitement as we approached a charming brick building. She stepped ahead, reaching for the glass door that marked the entrance. With a playful smile, she held it open and gestured for me to go inside. "Ladies first," she teased.

"Oh, please," I laughed, but couldn't help smiling as I stepped through the door, obeying her playful command. Ruby followed closely behind me, and I took in the surroundings. The restaurant was small but had a cozy, intimate charm—a warm blend of soft lighting, exposed brick, and rustic wooden tables that made it feel more like a welcoming home than a busy restaurant. The air was filled with the comforting aromas of Italian cooking. Moments later, a friendly host approached with a warm smile, guiding us to a cozy table for two by the window, perfectly set for a quiet evening.

"So, what do you think?" Ruby asked, settling into her chair and adjusting her posture as she looked at me expectantly.

"It's so cute in here, I love it so far."

"I promise the food is just as great as the atmosphere," Ruby said with a grin, reaching for the menus between us. She handed me one, and I took it, flipping it open as my eyes began to scan over the options.

"I am so undecisive, what do you usually get?"

"I get the gnocchi every single time I come here."

"I'll get that."

After a few minutes of browsing the menu, the waiter approached to take our order. Ruby took the lead, speaking confidently as she ordered for both of us, choosing her favorite dish. I didn't mind—there was something nice about letting her take charge. As we waited for the food, our conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on a variety of topics. We talked about everything from work and travel to our favorite books and films, the exchange deepening as we got to know each other better. Time seemed to slip away until the waiter finally returned, placing our plates in front of us, the delicious aroma filling the air.