Gabriel

Twenty-Two

"Tres magnifique,"

Jaleesa whispered as she lay awake, truly and simply overjoyed.

Gabriel Nichea, or Emilien, was.

This time, she couldn't think of a word that captured the essence of the man.

How foolish, how blind, how wrong, how prejudiced was she?

Her heart fluttered, remembering Gabriel's strict insistence.

He didn't hold the past against her.

He wanted her.

He called her magnificent.

Her!

The one who knew that it was hopeless to believe Gabriel could want her.

It wasn't hopeless.

Clasping her fingers together, she looked up.

"Lord, I know we're still working this out, but," She paused, hoping for the confidence to even ask for something more. "Can, no, will you let this last more than one night?"

No one knew this, but despite the constant praise she received from men, not one man ever wanted to see her again.

They gave her attention and would often hint at late-night endeavors, but when she denied their wishes, she was ghosted.

But Gabriel.

Before the date could even properly begin, when she assumed it was over, he said when.

When.

Not if.

Gabriel wanted to see her again.

She didn't question his motives, but it delighted her heart to know that he wasn't looking for anything other than an evening with her.

And he kissed her.

She was taken by a fit of giggles at the memory.

Such a sweet memory.

She wanted to leave, he wanted her to stay.

She was horrified, he was handsome.

Too handsome.

And she had his jacket!

Something to remember him by, though she'd see him at practice.

"Practice,"

How was she supposed to act around him now?

They weren't dating.

It was one date.

One amazingly swoontastic date.

He kissed her.

What did this mean?

Was she thinking too much?

"Yes," She giggled, touching her lips. "Oh, Lord, please let it be well,"

Gabriel Nichea was after her and she was hopeful to be caught.

-

"Jesus," Gabriel breathed, still in amazement, sitting on the balcony under the stars. "Thank You,"

It was insane.

It was exhilarating.

It was weird.

Jaleesa was precious, near perfect.

Again, it was insane.

Gone were the questions and fear that loomed over his future.

He wanted Jaleesa in his future.