Only for You

15: The Taste of Temptation

Zac held the door open for Fatima, and she stepped into the grand restaurant with wide eyes, taking in the intricate décor of Le Meurice. Chandeliers sparkled from above, casting a warm glow over the elegantly set tables, while the frescoed ceiling and opulent gold-trimmed mirrors transported her to a different time. It was both regal and welcoming, with just the right number of guests enjoying quiet conversations and delicate bites.

Fatima couldn't help but smile as she looked around, her gaze lingering on the delicate pastries and treats displayed on a nearby cart. "Wow... it's like stepping into a painting," she murmured, her voice filled with awe.

Zac chuckled softly, watching her as she took in every detail. "You look like a kid in a candy store, Ti."

She grinned, giving him a playful nudge. "Don't tempt me. You know I've got a serious sweet tooth. I might just skip breakfast and dive straight into dessert."

He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Noted. Guess we'll have to make a detour to the dessert cart later."

A waiter approached them, guiding them to a table by the large windows that overlooked the bustling streets of Paris. Fatima settled into her seat, carefully placing her bouquet of flowers on the table beside her as Zac took the seat across from her.

As they browsed the menu, Zac looked up and caught Fatima studying the pastries listed on the last page, her eyes lighting up at the mention of things like "chocolate soufflé" and "macaron tower."

"So... do we need to order extra desserts to keep you satisfied?" he teased, watching her cheeks flush slightly.

"Hey, don't judge me," she laughed, shaking her head. "Paris has some of the best pastries in the world. It would be a crime not to indulge a little."

"Alright, alright," he said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "I'm just here to make sure you get your sugar fix."

They shared a laugh, and the waiter returned to take their order. Fatima opted for a classic French breakfast—freshly baked croissants, a side of seasonal fruit, and, of course, a pastry sampler to satisfy her sweet tooth. Zac went for something heartier, with eggs, fresh-baked baguette, and a cappuccino.

Once their orders were placed, Zac leaned back in his chair, studying her with a softness in his eyes. "So... what's your favorite pastry?" he asked, clearly curious.

"Oh, that's a tough one," she replied, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "But if I had to pick, I'd say macarons. There's just something about the way they're delicate on the outside but melt in your mouth. Plus, they come in all these fun flavors."

"Macarons, huh? I'll keep that in mind," he said with a nod, as if making a mental note.

She smiled, looking at him with a playful glint in her eye. "What about you? Got a sweet tooth, or are you more of a 'just give me coffee and I'm good' kind of guy?"

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Definitely more of a coffee guy. But I can appreciate a good dessert every now and then. With the way you taste, you'll definitely convert me by the end of this trip."

"Zachary!" she scolded, her cheeks flushing as she glanced around, making sure no one overheard his comment. He laughed, clearly pleased with himself, watching the way she fidgeted under his gaze.

"What?" he said, feigning innocence, leaning back with a smirk. "Just being honest."

She rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress the smile creeping onto her face. "You're impossible."

"Yeah, but you seem to like it," he teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he took a sip of his coffee.

Fatima shook her head, trying to play it cool, but he could see the way her expression softened, even as she tried to act unimpressed.