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Three months had passed since Gabriella and Zay started working on her candle business together, and things were going better than they ever expected. Orders were coming in faster than she could keep up with, and she had even started selling her candles in a few local stores. Her brand was gaining traction, and her confidence was growing with each new success. Zay's support had been more than just business advice—he had become her anchor, helping her stay grounded while she chased her dreams.
But tonight wasn't about work. Zay had planned something special for them—something she wasn't expecting.
It was a Friday evening when Zay told Gabriella to pack a bag. "I've got a surprise for you," he said with a mischievous smile, his eyes sparkling. "We're going away for the weekend."
Gabriella raised an eyebrow, surprised. "A weekend getaway? Where are we going?"
Zay just winked. "It's a surprise. You'll see when we get there."
Gabriella didn't ask any more questions. She trusted him, and honestly, the idea of a little getaway was a nice break from the busy pace of her work and life.
When they arrived at Zay's house, Gabriella was taken aback. The house was modern, sleek, and spacious—nothing like the apartment she had grown used to. The place felt warm and welcoming, but there was an understated elegance to it. She could tell that Zay had put thought into making it special for her.
"I wasn't expecting this," Gabriella said, looking around. "Your place is amazing."
Zay smiled, a little proud of the work he'd done. "It's nothing fancy. But I wanted it to be comfortable for you. You know, cozy. Feel at home."
"I already feel at home," Gabriella replied, her smile soft.
As she settled into the living room, Zay handed her a glass of wine. "I've got a chef coming over to cook us a special dinner. Thought you might like that better than ordering takeout."
Gabriella smiled, touched by the gesture. "You really thought of everything, huh?"
Zay grinned. "I try. I want tonight to be perfect for you."
The evening was exactly as he promised—perfect. The chef prepared a beautiful three-course meal, and the two of them enjoyed dinner together, chatting about everything and nothing. The mood was light and playful, and Gabriella felt relaxed in a way she hadn't in a long time.
After dinner, they moved to the living room. Zay put on a movie, and they settled on the couch, their bodies close, her head resting against his shoulder. They laughed and joked, the sound of their voices filling the room, but there was an underlying tenderness in the air. Gabriella felt safe with him—completely at ease, like she had nothing to prove.
As the night wore on, she excused herself to take a shower. Zay was waiting when she returned, standing by the bed with a soft smile. He had already set the mood—dim lighting, soft music, and the scent of candles filling the room.
Gabriella stood in the doorway, taking in the sight of him. Zay had a way of making everything feel calm and inviting, like nothing else mattered but the two of them. Her heart raced, and she couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves. This was the first time she had ever stayed over at his place, and the night felt like it held so much meaning.
Zay noticed the way she hesitated, and he walked over to her, gently taking her hands in his. "You okay?" he asked softly.
Gabriella nodded, but there was something else in her eyes—something deeper that she couldn't ignore. She took a breath, then spoke quietly. "Zay, there's something I need to tell you."
He looked at her, his expression tender, waiting for her to continue.
"I'm a virgin," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I've never...been with anyone before."
Zay's eyes softened, and his thumb brushed over her hand. He leaned in, his voice gentle. "I understand. And whenever you're ready, I'll be right here. No pressure, I promise. I just want you to feel comfortable."
Gabriella's heart fluttered. She had never been with anyone who made her feel so safe, so seen. Zay's words reassured her, easing her nerves. He wasn't rushing her, he wasn't pushing her. He just wanted to be with her, in whatever way she was ready for.
With a soft smile, Gabriella nodded. "I'm ready. With you."
Zay leaned in and kissed her, slow and soft, his lips reassuring as he gently guided her toward the bed. There was no rush, no urgency—just the warmth of his hands, the tenderness in his touch. He made her feel cherished, desired in a way that had nothing to do with pressure or expectations.
When the moment came, Zay was as gentle as he had promised. He took his time, never once rushing, making sure Gabriella felt safe and comfortable. He whispered words of encouragement, kissing her softly, as if showing her just how special this moment was. Gabriella felt more than just the physical closeness; she felt a deep connection with him, something that went beyond words.
Afterward, they lay together in silence, the weight of the moment settling in. Zay held her close, stroking her hair gently as they both relaxed into each other. Gabriella felt a sense of peace, something she hadn't known she was missing until now. She was no longer carrying her past with her. With Zay, she had found something beautiful, something real.
"I'm glad it was with you," Gabriella whispered, her voice full of emotion.
Zay smiled, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I'm glad it was with you too."
Later that night, after a warm shower together, they returned to bed. Gabriella rested her head on Zay's chest as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. The sound of their breathing filled the room, calm and steady. Gabriella felt more connected to him than ever before.
She closed her eyes, feeling safe, loved, and content. For the first time in a long time, she allowed herself to just be in the moment—no worries, no fears, just the warmth of Zay's embrace.
And as they drifted off to sleep, Gabriella knew one thing for sure: this was just the beginning.
