Taking a deep breath and mustering my composure, I turned away from their prying gazes, determined to regain control over my emotions. I bit my lip firmly, fighting back the tears that threatened to escape. Once I felt a semblance of normalcy return, I turned back to face them, a mask of strength on my face.
"May I speak with you, Ethan?" I requested, my voice steady despite the turmoil within.
"Sure," Ethan responded, though his uncertainty was evident in his expression.
We made our way to a quieter and more secluded spot, away from the crowd and prying eyes.
"Please, take us home now. I'm not feeling well," I pleaded, holding my head in my hands as a pounding headache intensified.
"What's the matter?" Ethan inquired, concern etched on his face.
"I'll explain later. Right now, I'll wait for you and Mia in the car. However, before that, I need to inform your parents and uncle about my departure. I hope you don't mind?" I requested, hoping he would understand the urgency.
"No," Ethan replied, his jaw clenched tightly. "Not at all."
"Very well. Let's return then," I responded, and we made our way back to the table in complete silence.
"Mr. and Mrs. Grayson, Mr. Miller, Mia," I addressed them with a polite smile, my gaze also falling on Maverick. "It has been delightful having you all here, and the party was truly fantastic. However, as much as I have enjoyed it, I must take my leave."
"Why can't you stay until the end?" Maverick questioned, a hint of disappointment in his voice.
"She has urgent matters to attend to at home before tomorrow morning," Ethan interjected, speaking on my behalf.
"I understand," Maverick responded, rising from his seat and planting a gentle, slightly moist kiss on my cheek. My blush deepened, and time seemed to stand still for that brief moment. His voice lowered as he whispered, "I eagerly await our next encounter, my beautiful one." Before anything more could be said, someone cleared their throat, interrupting the intimate exchange.
I glanced to the side, catching sight of Ethan, his expression filled with simmering anger. Stepping away, I retrieved my purse, preparing to collect my guitar, only to find Ethan beating me to it.
"I'll bring it," he assured me, his tone curt and possessive.
"Sending her home?" Maverick inquired, his tone tinged with confusion.
"Indeed," Ethan affirmed, refocusing his attention on me. "I'll join you shortly." I nodded in acknowledgment and wasted no time in making my exit, determined to avoid any further delays.
Finally, after navigating through the crowded venue, I emerged into the fresh air outside. Taking in a deep breath, I began to make my way toward the awaiting car when someone suddenly grasped my arm. Instinctively, I started to struggle and was about to cry out when I recognized the face before me.
"Adrian? What on earth?" I exclaimed, a mix of anger and surprise evident in my voice.
"Apologies. Are you leaving now?" he inquired, his expression a mix of concern and curiosity.
"Apparently, yes. Now, kindly release your grip," I insisted, my irritation apparent.
"Do you need a ride home?" he offered, releasing his hold on me.
"No," I replied curtly, my determination clear.
"As expected," he muttered, rolling his eyes. "What about grabbing coffee tomorrow?"
YOU ARE READING
SERENDIPITY
RomanceRewriting!!! "You drive me to madness, Raquel," he whispered, his lips grazing against my neck. Despite the betrayal and anger within me, my body betrayed me as I found myself leaning in for more, a momentary weakness consuming me. "...I can't bear...
