Maybe This Time (Time Series #1) [Completed]

CHAPTER 07

CHAPTER 07

After our meal, I meticulously tidied up the kitchen, the clinking of plates and the swish of soapy water providing a rhythmic backdrop to my racing thoughts. Meanwhile, Zander disappeared into the bathroom, leaving behind a trail of steam and the faint scent of his cologne. I couldn't help but notice the subtle details of our interaction replaying in my mind, dissecting each word and glance exchanged between us at the bar. Zander's words had cut through my turmoil like a knife through butter, offering a clarity I hadn't known I craved.

As I wiped down the counters, my mind wandered back to our conversation at the bar. Zander's insights seemed to linger in the air, his probing questions forcing me to confront truths I had long been avoiding. There was an undeniable connection between us, a shared understanding that transcended the barriers of strangers. Lost in my thoughts, I didn't notice when Zander emerged from the bathroom, his presence filling the room with an undeniable energy. He was dressed casually, yet there was an effortless charm about him that made it impossible to look away.

"Don't stare at me, I will melt," he joked, flashing me a playful grin as he crossed the room to join me. His words elicited a nervous laugh from me, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment at being caught in the act. Despite my best efforts to maintain my composure, there was something undeniably captivating about Zander, something that drew me to him like a moth to a flame.

"D-Di naman ah!" I stammered, feeling a surge of adrenaline at his proximity. His laughter filled the room, a melodic sound that washed over me like a warm embrace. For a moment, the weight of my troubles seemed to lift, replaced by an inexplicable sense of lightness.

"HAHAHA! Okay," he laughed, taking a seat beside me on the couch. His presence was magnetic, his warmth seeping into every corner of the room. I couldn't help but feel drawn to him, a silent pull that tugged at my heartstrings with an undeniable force.

"Go sit on the single sofa!" I teased, trying to regain my composure. Zander's playful demeanor was infectious, his easygoing nature putting me at ease despite the tumultuous thoughts swirling in my mind.

"I want to sit beside you," he protested, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he pouted. His words sent a shiver down my spine, a rush of anticipation coursing through my veins. There was an unspoken tension between us, a silent understanding that hung in the air like a veil.

"Stop!" I protested weakly, my heart pounding in my chest as he leaned in closer. The air crackled with electricity, a palpable tension that threatened to consume us both. But before I could protest further, he closed the distance between us and pressed his lips to mine in a soft, lingering kiss.

Time seemed to stand still as the world fell away, leaving only the two of us lost in the moment. Every inch of my body hummed with desire, a primal longing that begged to be sated. As our lips parted, I found myself at a loss for words, my mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions.

"It's..." I began, my voice trailing off as Zander abruptly stood up. His sudden departure left me reeling, a sense of emptiness settling over me like a heavy fog.

"I'll just go downstairs," he said, his tone unreadable as he made his exit. Left alone in the living room, I couldn't help but replay the kiss in my mind, each moment etched into my memory with exquisite clarity. It was a moment of vulnerability, a fleeting connection that left me yearning for more.

But amidst the whirlwind of emotions, a sense of guilt gnawed at the edges of my consciousness. I had a boyfriend, a man who loved me despite my flaws. Yet here I was, entangled in a web of desire with a virtual stranger.

It wasn't until Zander returned that I finally mustered the courage to announce my departure. "Zander!" I called out as he reappeared, his presence filling the room with warmth once more.