Hidden Flames..

Chapter 35

After the kiss, Ethan pulled back slightly, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "You know," he began, his voice low but filled with mischief, "this isn't the end of our date."

Lily tilted her head, her brow arching in curiosity. "What do you mean? Ethan, you've already done so much tonight."

He smirked, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small envelope. "I have one more surprise for you." He handed it to her, his gaze never leaving hers.

Lily opened it slowly, her heart racing as she read the words inside. Her eyes widened in disbelief. "Ethan, this is... a trip to Paris?" she gasped, looking up at him, her hands trembling slightly. "Are you serious?"

He grinned, his excitement mirroring hers. "Completely serious. I know how much Paris means to you. You've told me so many times it's your dream destination, and I've been waiting for the perfect moment to take you there."

Lily's mouth opened, but no words came out. Her emotions swirled between shock and overwhelming happiness. "You're taking me to Paris?" she finally whispered, her voice breaking slightly.

Ethan stepped closer, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Not just to Paris," he said softly. "We're going tonight. The jet is ready, and I want to show you everything you've ever dreamed of."

Tears glistened in Lily's eyes as she flung her arms around his neck, holding him tightly. "Ethan, this is... this is everything I've ever wanted. You're everything I've ever wanted."

He smiled against her hair, holding her close. "And you're everything I never knew I needed, Lily."

Hours later, they were aboard Ethan's sleek private jet, cruising through the night sky. The luxurious cabin was dimly lit, and Lily couldn't help but marvel at the comfort and intimacy of the space. She turned to Ethan, who was reclining beside her, watching her with an affectionate smile.

"This doesn't even feel real," she said, her voice tinged with wonder. "I've dreamed about Paris for so long, but I never thought it would be like this—with you."

Ethan reached over, taking her hand in his. "Get used to it, Lil," he said with a wink. "I plan on making all your dreams come true."

As the jet soared through the clouds, they talked about the places they wanted to visit—the Eiffel Tower at night, the charming streets of Montmartre, and the Seine's romantic boat rides. The anticipation of what awaited them only deepened their connection, their laughter and shared glances creating a bubble of joy that felt like their own world.

Ethan leaned closer, his voice dropping to a tender whisper. "Paris is called the city of love for a reason. I want to make it unforgettable for you, for us."

Lily's smile softened, her heart swelling with emotion. "You already have, Ethan. You make every moment unforgettable."

With her head resting on his shoulder, she closed her eyes, dreaming of what was to come while holding on to the one person who had made her feel like she was living a fairytale.

Ethan had spared no detail in planning their stay, booking a private villa nestled in the outskirts of Paris. As the car pulled up to the property, Lily's eyes widened in awe. The villa was a picturesque blend of classic French architecture and modern luxury. Its white stone façade was adorned with creeping vines, and the large, arched windows reflected the soft glow of the evening lights.

A cobblestone pathway led to a lush garden filled with vibrant blooms, the scent of roses and lavender perfuming the air. In the center of the garden was a small fountain, its gentle trickle creating a serene ambiance. The villa overlooked the Seine, its balcony offering a breathtaking view of the river and the distant shimmer of the Eiffel Tower.

Inside, the villa was just as enchanting. The high ceilings were adorned with intricate chandeliers, and the open living space was decorated with plush, velvet furniture in soft tones of cream and gold. A grand spiral staircase wound its way to the upper floors, and the scent of freshly baked croissants from the kitchen made it feel both elegant and inviting.

Lily stepped inside, her breath catching at the sight of the cozy yet opulent space. She turned to Ethan, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "You do know what can make a girl happy," she said with a playful smile, her voice tinged with admiration.

"It's one of my many talents." Ethan captured her mouth in a searing kiss,and she melted into him, letting his tongue and taste and touch carry her away toa land where her troubles didn't exist.

Lily in her thoughts "God, I love this man." her pulse thundered in her ears when they pulled apart. "Ethan..."

"Hmm?" He brushed his fingers over her skin, his gaze still locked on her mouth.

"I love you" lily said with a smile. Ethan replied "I love you too "with a smile.