Better In Your Arms (Parisian Mafia 2#)

Special Chapter Lilia's first love

The afternoon sun bathed the Stuart estate in a warm, golden light, casting a gentle glow across the garden. Lilia Amira Stuart, now seventeen, sat on one of the estate’s marble benches, her journal open on her lap. Her pen moved swiftly as she wrote, her thoughts a mixture of the day’s events and her budding dreams for the future. The young Stuart heiress carried the striking features of both her parents—Amari's determined gaze and Lawrence’s calm intensity—but she was already a force in her own right.

Lilia had always been a curious soul, restless and eager to explore the world beyond the security her family provided. Though she’d grown up surrounded by loyal friends and family, she often found herself feeling as though she were destined for something more.

And then there was Ephram.

Ephram Reyes had been the newest addition to their circle, the son of a close family friend from a reputable family in the Mendoza network. He had a quiet charm about him, a bit of an artist at heart with a love for music and an endless fascination with the beauty of life itself. His gentle but introspective nature contrasted with Lilia's confident, spirited personality. When he joined Lilia’s private school a few months ago, she couldn’t have known how quickly he’d become a part of her life.

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One afternoon after class, Lilia noticed Ephram lingering near the entrance, fiddling with the strap of his backpack. Curious, she approached him. “Ephram,” she said with a small smile, “Waiting for someone?”

Ephram looked up, startled at first but then breaking into a shy smile. “Oh, just… trying to figure out if I should go to the park alone or not,” he admitted, glancing away.

Lilia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Alone? That doesn’t sound like much fun. Mind if I tag along?”

A hint of surprise crossed his face, but he nodded, pleased. “I’d love that.”

They walked together in comfortable silence, the city sounds blending with the hum of their own thoughts. When they reached the park, they found a secluded spot beneath a sprawling oak tree. Ephram pulled out a small sketchbook, his fingers tracing the outline of a half-finished drawing of a cityscape. Lilia watched him, captivated by the quiet focus in his expression.

“You’re really talented, you know?” she remarked, leaning closer to admire the drawing.

Ephram shrugged, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. “Thanks, but I’m still learning. I love capturing moments… makes me feel like I can hold onto them forever.”

Lilia nodded thoughtfully, struck by his words. She hadn’t expected someone so close to her age to share such depth. They talked about art, about family legacies, and about dreams. Ephram’s presence had an ease to it that calmed Lilia’s restless energy, giving her a sense of peace she rarely found in her fast-paced life.

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As the weeks passed, their connection deepened, and Lilia found herself drawn to Ephram in ways she hadn’t anticipated. They shared stolen moments, whispered secrets, and exchanged fleeting touches that lingered in her mind long after they parted. She knew her parents trusted her, but she also knew they were protective, especially when it came to her choice in friends.

One evening, as they lay side by side on the grass, gazing up at the stars, Ephram turned to her, his voice soft. “Lilia… do you ever feel like there’s something more out there for us? Beyond what’s expected?”

Lilia nodded, her gaze fixed on the sky. “Every day. Sometimes it feels like everyone’s already decided what my life should be. But with you, I feel like… like I can breathe.”

Ephram’s hand found hers, their fingers entwining. “You’re stronger than anyone I know, Lilia. Whatever path you choose, I know it’ll be amazing.”

They lay there in silence, the weight of their unspoken words hanging in the air. Lilia felt her heart racing, aware of the new and thrilling emotions Ephram stirred within her. She didn’t know what the future held, but for the first time, she didn’t feel the need to plan it.

With Ephram by her side, perhaps she could embrace each moment, just as he’d taught her.