I narrowed my eyes at him. "Oh, so you're the spice master now? Is that your new superpower?"
He smiled, leaning closer. "Among other things, yes. But my primary superpower is making you smile."
My lips curved involuntarily, fighting against the urge to smile.
Cheeky bastard.
"Alright, enough with the smooth talk. Your lines are sounding straight out of a 90s movie," I remarked, trying to suppress a chuckle.
He chuckled, his smile unapologetic. "Well, you know what they say, 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it.' Classic lines never go out of style."
I rolled my eyes, unable to hold back a laugh. "Oh, spare me the vintage charm, Mr. Smooth Operator. We're in the 21st century now."
He leaned in a much closer with a mock-serious expression. "Ah, but you can't deny that a little old-school flair adds a touch of magic to modern times."
I couldn't resist bursting into laughter, shaking my head at his stubborn attitude. "Fine, you win this round. But don't expect me to swoon like a 90s heroine."
He shrugged. "No promises needed. Your smile says it all."
"Oh, god," I exclaimed, pushing him as I got up and sat with my knees folded. He toppled over onto his back, laughing wholeheartedly as he did so.
A smile crept onto my face. The feeling was overwhelming - how much I loved this guy. It was a love that could be painful, but in the best way possible. Who would have thought that I, of all people, would be constructing sentences and waxing poetic about love? But here I was, head over heels.
"You're a handful, you know?" I told him. Maybe this is what all those couples in love were always going on about-the magic of spending quality time together.
He let out a snicker. "Ah, and this is where I'm supposed to say, 'That's why you love me, right?'
His rich, velvety voice sent thrills down my spine as he spoke my name. His intense, mesmerising gaze focused on mine, making it impossible to look away. As he drew me closer, his powerful arms wrapped around me, and I could feel the warmth of his breath against my skin. The aroma of his fragrance, a seductive blend of spice and musk, filled the air, making my heart race and my senses whirl. It's as if every aspect of him is intended to captivate and enchant me, keeping me completely entranced.
Release me," I muttered, feeling my cheeks heat up as I stubbornly avoided his gaze.
He let go like he had forgotten to do so.
For a few seconds, neither of us said anything. I fiddled with the hem of my sleeve, pretending I was calm, while secretly screaming inside. Why is he just standing there? Say something, idiot!
Finally, he broke the silence.
"So, why were you ignoring me?" he asked in low, almost accusing.
"Why would I ignore you?" I lied without flinching, acting like innocent.
But he wasn't buying it.
"I saw you," he said, stepping a little closer. "You ducked behind a door like you were dodging bullets. You thought I wouldn't notice?"
Ugh, busted.
I rolled my eyes. "Maybe I just didn't have any reason to confront you," I replied, crossing my arms as a shield against how close he was now.
He leaned in slightly, smirking,
"Oh, but you had plenty of reasons to hang around those guys at the swimming pool, huh?" he shot back.
"I was just... talking," I said defensively. "It's called being social. You should try it sometime instead of lurking around like a spy."
He chuckled, "Lurking? Please. I was just passing by. I was surprised when I saw you laughing with those guys like you were starring in some rom-com."
I refuse to back down.
"And what if I was?" I challenged.
He didn't flinch. Instead, he tilted his head with a mock-thoughtful expression.
"Then I guess I'd have to remind you... there are better options around " he said, tapping his chest casually.