《Echoes Of Affection》


 Eclipse of the Heart: A Bid for More Than Art

    ROSES POV;


    I had never been happy about taking the bus. It always gave me a sense of disgust. Yes, I am just that kind of person. Sometimes, I would rather walk than step onto a crowded bus full of people I didn¡¯t want to be around. The rides were always filled with toxic individuals and you could tell just by looking at their faces what kind of people they were. Sure, I have met some decent ones too, but no conversation ever lasted beyond my bus stop.


    And the ones who weren¡¯t so decent? They made me regret humanity altogether.


    I remember when I almost stabbed a seat partner in the eye with a 10cm painting brush, I still have regrets till this day for not doing it because that guy was truly a bitch.


    But I knew better than to let myself get caught up in situations like that. One wrong move and I could land myself in serious trouble. I am not trying to get deported. I had too many plans to let some lowlife ruin them. Plus, I was really avoiding any situation that would lead to my pain-in-the-butt best friend, Alice, screaming in my ears.


    Alice was the only person who kept me right on track. We were practically like sisters, and anyone who saw us together would assume we were. I didn¡¯t mind. In another life, I would probably wish to be her younger sister.


    We were on the bus together, heading for a charity auction that evening. Taking an Uber would have been easier, but Alice had insisted. The roads were jam packed, and she figured the bus would be quicker. She always had this way of making things sound logical, even when they annoyed me.


    "You won¡¯t have to walk around too much. Besides, you¡¯re shorter than me, you don¡¯t want people missing you unless they look to the ground," she said with an annoying side-eye and that signature corny, evil smile that always drove me nuts. She knew how uncomfortable I was in these heels, and she was clearly enjoying every second of it.


    I gasped dramatically. "Girl, don¡¯t make me bite you. I¡¯m trying so hard not to lose my cool and you¡¯re the one who forced me to wear this," I said with an attitude, folding my arms and turning to stare out the bus window. "Thanks, but no thanks."


    If you lose your cool, you won''t be connecting with any investors that could buy your work, she said with a stern face that reminded me of my mum.


    I glared at her but didn¡¯t argue. She was right. This was the annual charity auction at the Ocean View Hotel, one of Miami¡¯s most prestigious events. My paintings were being showcased. This was my shot at getting recognized, and making real money from my work.


    As I stepped off the bus and approached the grand entrance, the sight of luxury cars and elegantly dressed guests only heightened my anticipation.


    The hotel was a beacon of opulence, with twinkling lights adorning its facade and a red carpet welcoming the distinguished attendees.


    Inside, the atmosphere was electric. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room, illuminating the art pieces that lined the walls.


    Waitstaff in impeccable uniforms moved gracefully through the crowd, offering champagne and hors d''oeuvres.


    The air was filled with the buzz of conversation and laughter, as wealthy patrons admired the artwork and prepared to place their bids.


    I walked in wearing a black leather skirt that stopped just above my knees, with a navy blue sleeveless button up shirt. I do not like to play dress up but for this event I tried to overdo it because it was my first step in making a name for myself.


    I threw in a black heel that had silver diamonds sprinkled on it. It wasn''t mine, it belonged to Alice and I hated heels so much! They always make me uncomfortable. I was more comfortable putting on a flat shoe but Alice, my pain in the ass best friend, insisted that I wear heels just to match the caliber of people that would be at this auction.


    We were similar in most aspects, almost the same height, just that she is a bit taller so we were both able to wear each other''s clothings. She wore a black flowy skirt that stopped just under her knees, and a white button shirt, she left about 2 buttons open. She had on the gold watch I gifted her for her birthday¡ªone of her favorite accessories.


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    She worked as a nurse but took a leave that day just for me. She was there to watch my painting get auctioned and how she made my auction a priority for her made me want to kiss her on the lips but I''m not into that kind of stuff, I just felt so loved.


    Though, knowing Alice, she had other goals in mind tonight, she was a gorgeous petite 5:7 babe that had a curvy ass, her petite boobs made up for it, most times she had me feeling jealous. It was an event that was filled with billionaires so what would be better than a gorgeous, sexy looking lady being around billionaires?


    We stepped inside, and a waiter immediately offered us glasses of wine. Alice went to sit among the audience, while I headed toward the section reserved for artists and sponsors.


    That¡¯s when I noticed him.


    The man sitting beside me.


    He was dressed in a simple black suit, nothing that immediately screamed rich, but something about him stood out. No, it wasn¡¯t his suit¡ªit was his watch.


    Damn. "Nice watch," I said, flashing him a charming smile. "What brand is it?"


    He turned to look at me, a flicker of curiosity in his deep brown eyes. Then, he glanced at his wrist and smirked. A dangerous smirk.


    "It¡¯s a Richard Mille RM 008 Tourbillon," he said. "I had trouble picking which to wear today, so I went with this."


    I blinked. "Ooooh, fancy name."


    He chuckled, the sound smooth and effortless.


    I turned my attention back to the auction, waiting for my painting to be called. But I could feel his eyes on me. There was something about him¡ªsomething magnetic.


    Something that made me feel like this night was about to change everything.


    I couldn''t help but feel a magnetic pull towards this enigmatic man. His confidence was palpable, yet there was a subtle vulnerability in his eyes that intrigued me.


    "You seem nervous," he observed, his voice gentle. "Is this your first auction?"


    "Yeah, it is," I admitted with a shy smile. "I¡¯m an artist, and tonight my paintings are up for auction. It''s a bit overwhelming, to be honest."


    He raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "An artist? That''s impressive. Which ones are yours?"


    I pointed to a set of vibrant canvases displayed on the far wall. "Those are mine. They represent different emotions and experiences I''ve gone through."


    He took a moment to study my work, and I could see a genuine appreciation in his eyes. "Your art is powerful. It speaks volumes."


    "Thank you," I replied, feeling a warm blush spread across my cheeks. "It''s my way of expressing what words can''t capture."


    As we continued talking, I learned that he had a deep appreciation for art and often attended auctions incognito to avoid the spotlight. There was something about his humility and genuine interest that made me feel comfortable opening up to him.


    Just then, the auctioneer called out my name, signaling that my artwork was next. My heart raced with anticipation as the bidding began. Alexander seated beside me, offering silent support. His presence was reassuring, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, our final item tonight is ''Eclipse of the Heart'' by the talented artist Rose Bennett," the auctioneer announced, his voice resonating through the room. "We''ll start the bidding at $5,000."


    Several paddles went up immediately, and the bidding quickly escalated. "$5,000, do I hear $6,000? A woman in white voiced out $6,000! Now $7,000!" the auctioneer called out. The excitement in the room was palpable as the bids continued to rise.


    "$8,000! $9,000! Do I hear $10,000?" the auctioneer prompted. I could hardly believe my eyes as the numbers climbed higher and higher.


    Finally, it came down to two determined bidders. "$15,000! Going once, going twice¡ª"


    Before the auctioneer could finish, Alexander raised his paddle with a confident smile. "$20,000," he declared, his voice carrying a quiet authority.


    The room fell silent for a moment, and I could feel all eyes on us. The other bidders hesitated, sensing Alexander''s resolve.


    "Going once, going twice¡ªsold! ''Eclipse of the Heart'' to the gentleman in the back for $20,000," the auctioneer announced, bringing down his gavel.


    Alexander turned to me with a warm smile. "Looks like ''Eclipse of the Heart'' found its new home."


    I couldn''t help but laugh, a mix of relief and gratitude flooding over me. "Thank you so much. You have no idea what this means to me."


    Before I could say more, I felt a pair of familiar arms wrap around me from behind. "Rose! You did it!" Alice exclaimed, pulling me into a big hug. Her excitement was infectious, and I couldn''t help but smile even wider.


    "Alice, I''m so glad you are here!" I said, hugging her back tightly. "I couldn''t have done it without your support."


    "Of course, I''m here! I wouldn''t miss this for the world," she said, beaming with pride. "I knew your talent would shine through."


    As Alice released me, she noticed Alexander standing nearby and gave me a knowing look. "And who is this?"


    "This is Alex," I introduced him. "He just won the bid for ''Eclipse of the Heart.''"


    Alice shook his hand with a warm smile. "It''s nice to meet you, Alex. Thank you for appreciating Rose''s work."


    "The pleasure is mine," Alexander replied graciously.


    Alice excused herself to give us some space, and Alexander turned back to me. "I really enjoyed our conversation tonight," he said, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat. "I''d love to keep in touch and see more of your work. Would you mind if I got your number?"


    Feeling a warm flush of excitement, I nodded. "Of course, I''d like that too." I took out my phone, and we exchanged numbers, my fingers trembling slightly with nervous anticipation.


    "Thank you, Rose," he said, with his voice sincere. "I''m looking forward to staying in touch and dont fall with those heels of yours, I could tell you don''t really fit in those." he said smuggling in a gazing smile before turning his back on me.


    As we parted ways that evening, I couldn''t shake the feeling that this was the beginning of something truly special.

 The Space Between Us

    We got home that evening and kept talking about what went down during the auction.


    Why did old men tend to get so attracted to me during the auction, do I look like an old man¡¯s chick? Alice asked with a worried face that you could tell was getting her worked up.


    I laughed with every strength in me, you might as well be a old mans chick, who knows?, i added a smirk that would ignite a burning flame inside of her


    You must be sick in the head, are you ready to tell me what went down between you and that guy that bought your painting? Alexander right? He was really hot, you must have done something i didn''t teach you to get his attention, she said with a corny smile while adjusting herself closer to me to get me to talk


    I gave a blushing smile, I really don''t know Alice, it just happened, I only asked what watch he wore and we started vibing and all that.


    Girl, what watch was it?? She asked with her eyes beaming with curiosity as she grabbed my legs


    Bitch, calm the fuck down, and get your dirty hands off me, why are your eyes beaming with so much curiosity? I said with a glazing scoff that I knew would piss her off.


    I''m really tired and I need to take a nap. I''m gonna skip dinner and go to bed. I might have forgotten the name, so maybe I''ll remember by morning," I said as I walked up into my room.


    The next morning, I received a call from an unknown number. My heart skipped a beat as I answered, curiosity and excitement bubbling within me.


    "Good morning, Rose," Alexander''s voice came through, smooth and warm. "I hope I''m not disturbing you."


    "Not at all," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "What''s up?"


    "I wanted to talk to you about something," he began. "I was so impressed with ''Eclipse of the Heart,'' and I think it would be perfect for a place in my home. But I was hoping you could help me with another painting, perhaps something that complements it."


    A surge of excitement coursed through me. "Of course! I''d be happy to help. Do you have any specific ideas in mind?"


    "Not yet," he admitted. "I was thinking it might be best if we could meet at my home to discuss it further. That way, you can see the space where the painting will be displayed and get a better sense of what I''m looking for. How does that sound?"


    I hesitated for a moment, unsure about meeting at his home. It felt a bit too personal, but I also knew that seeing the space would help me create something truly special. "That sounds good, but are you sure it''s okay to meet at your place?" I asked, trying to keep my tone casual.


    "Absolutely," Alexander reassured me. "I want you to have a clear idea of the setting. It will help us both."


    I took a deep breath and decided to trust him. "Alright, when would you like to meet?"


    "How about this afternoon?" he suggested. "Say around 2 PM?"


    "2 PM works for me," I confirmed. "Just send me the address, and I''ll be there."


    "Great. I''ll text you the details shortly,¡± as he hung up


    As he hung up the phone, I noticed Alice lounging on the couch, scrolling through her phone.


    "Guess what?" I said feeling a mix of excitement and nerves catching her attention. "Alexander just called and asked me to meet him at his place today at 2 PM. He wants to discuss another painting."


    Alice''s eyes widened with curiosity. "Really? At his place? That''s exciting, but are you okay with it?"


    I nodded, still processing my own feelings. "Yeah, I''m a little skeptical, but it makes sense. He wants me to see the space where the painting will be displayed and even though I could still handle myself, I¡¯m not a scaredy little chick like you, I said with a smirk just to piss her off, pissing her off seemed to be my love language.


    Alice rolled her eyes, crossing her arms playfully. "Oh, please. Just because you can handle yourself doesn''t mean you shouldn''t be cautious. But I get it, this is a huge opportunity for you."


    I smiled, feeling the excitement bubbling up again. "Thanks, Alice. I''ll be careful, I promise. Now, let me get ready for this meeting."


    As the afternoon approached, I found myself getting more and more anxious. I chose a simple yet elegant sundress gown in a soft pastel color, perfect for the warm weather and appropriate for a professional yet casual meeting. The flowing fabric and delicate design made me feel both comfortable and confident.


    With a deep breath, I grabbed my bag and headed out the door. I hailed an Uber to take me to Alexander''s home, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity during the ride. When I arrived at his address, I was greeted by a grand estate that exuded elegance and sophistication. The gate opened smoothly, and the Uber driver continued up the long driveway, making me feel a bit like I''d stepped into a movie scene.


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    As I got out of the Uber and approached the front door, Alexander greeted me with a warm smile. He was wearing a black T-shirt, knee-length grey shorts, and Prada slides. While he paid off the driver, he said, "Welcome, Rose. I''m so glad you could make it."


    "Thank you," I replied, trying to keep my nerves in check. "Your home is beautiful."


    "Come on in," he said, gesturing for me to follow. "Let me show you the space where I envision the new painting."


    As we walked through the luxurious rooms, I couldn''t help but admire the tasteful decor and the sense of tranquility that filled the air. Alexander led me to a spacious living area with large windows that offered a breathtaking view of the garden outside.


    "This is where I think the new painting should go," he explained, pointing to a wall that was bathed in natural light. "I loved ''Eclipse of the Heart'' because it brought a sense of depth and emotion to the room. I''d like something that complements it, perhaps something that captures the essence of serenity and hope."


    I nodded, taking in the space and imagining the possibilities.


    "I see what you mean. I have a few ideas already, but I''d love to hear more about what you''re looking for. Any specific colors or themes in mind?"


    Alexander smiled, his gaze lingering on me a bit longer than before. "Well, I trust your artistic vision, Rose. After all, you''re the one who created ''Eclipse of the Heart.'' I think you understand emotions on a deeper level."


    I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks and tried to focus on the task at hand. "Thank you. I''ll do my best to create something meaningful for this space."


    We walked into the Kitchen room and sat at the dining table just outside the kitchen


    As we continued discussing ideas, Alexander''s tone shifted slightly. "You know, I was really captivated by you at the auction. Not just your art, but you. There''s something about you that''s...different."


    I looked up, a bit surprised by his words. "Different? In a good way, I hope?"


    "Absolutely," he said, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that made my heart race. "You''re genuine, passionate, and incredibly talented. It''s refreshing."


    I smiled, feeling a mix of flattery and uncertainty. "That''s kind of you to say. I just try to be myself¡­..¡±


    "And that''s what makes you stand out," Alexander continued, cutting me short with his voice softening. "In a world full of pretense, authenticity is rare."


    I shifted slightly, smiling and looking back to my jotter, trying to steer the conversation back to the painting. "So, about the colors...do you have any preferences?"


    He chuckled, sensing my attempt to refocus. "I trust your judgment, Rose. But if I had to choose, I''d say something calming, perhaps shades of blue and green."


    "Got it," I said, jotting down notes. "That should work well with the natural light here."


    He got up and went down to the kitchen to grab a bottle of wine


    Do you care? He asked, shoving the bottle to my face, "it''s a rare Chateau Margaux 2005." he added.


    The bottle gleamed under the soft kitchen lights, its deep green glass hinting at the rich, dark liquid inside. The label, adorned with intricate gold and cream details, spoke of a heritage vineyard known for producing some of the finest wines in the world.


    I looked up at the bottle and gave a stern face trying to make my decision. I didn''t see any harm in having a bottle of wine since we were only trying to dialogue. ¡°Sure I could have some.¡± I replied.


    He brought in 2 glass cups and filled my cup to the brim, he poured in half a glass to his own cup, I grabbed mine and took a sip.


    Refreshing isn''t it? I have been wanting to drink this bottle for a long time but I didn''t want to drink it alone. I am happy sharing this bottle with you, he said with a low but thick voice smiling and looking deep into my eyes which gave me chills.


    Would you walk with me? He added.


    He stretched out his hand as a gesture to help me get up from my sitting position waiting for me to accept his proposal to walk with him.


    Feeling like a queen, I couldn''t resist. I grabbed his hand and accepted, and as he drew me up, his hands were so soft for a man that I didn''t want to let go.


    We walked together along a beautifully manicured pathway lined with blooming flowers and tall hedges, the scent of roses and jasmine filling the air. Alexander pointed out various features of his estate, each more impressive than the last. There were elegant statues, a sparkling fountain, and a serene koi pond where colorful fish glided gracefully through the water.


    "This garden is stunning," I remarked, marveling at the artistry and care that had gone into creating such a beautiful space.


    "Thank you," he said with a smile. "It''s one of my favorite places to unwind and find inspiration."


    We continued our walk, holding our wine glasses in one hand and the other holding each other, we eventually reached a secluded corner of the garden where a charming gazebo stood. The structure was adorned with twinkling fairy lights, casting a soft, romantic glow.


    "I wanted to show you this spot," Alexander said, his voice tinged with a hint of anticipation. "It''s where I come to think and escape from the world for a while and i sincerely feel this place mirrors you in your pretty sundress right now¡±


    "It''s lovely," I replied, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. "I can see why you like it here." looking about the garden while blushing uncontrollably trying not to show it.


    As we stood in the gazebo, the silence between us was comfortable, almost electric. Alexander turned to face me, his gaze intense and unwavering. He took a step closer, his hand gently leaving my hands. He reached up and used his fingers to gently tuck a few stray hairs behind my ear, clearing them from my eyes before placing his hand down to my waist. The touch was so tender and intimate, I could feel my insides running hot uncontrollably.


    "Rose," he murmured, his voice low and husky. "There''s something about you that I can''t quite put into words. It''s like you have this aura that draws people in."


    I looked up, a shiver running down my spine, unsure of how to respond. "I...I don''t know what to say."


    He smiled, his touch lingering a moment longer with his free hand slowly moving upward from my waistline to my back while holding his glass cup.


    "You don''t have to say anything. Just know that I''m looking forward to seeing more of you, both professionally and personally."


    With that, he leaned in slowly, his lips brushing softly against mine, I could not resist, I would feel bad spilling a glass of wine served to me on his clothes was the lie i told myself.


    Our tongues intertwined for about 10 seconds filled with a lot of passion and intensity. The kiss was tender and full of emotion, a promise of what could be. Our wine glasses still in hand, the world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of us in that magical moment.

 Uncharted Territory

    What was that for!? And who said you had any right to kiss me? I said looking at him with shyness that couldnt reflect my questions.


    That was my way of saying thank you for accepting to have a drink and walk with me, he said with a confident smirk on his face.


    Well, there are other ways to pay me, you didn''t have to kiss me, I said with an attitude that did not match my energy.


    Did you not like the kiss? he asked. I could take it back if you want


    Take it back how? I asked genuinely curious


    He leaned to me again and tried to kiss me again


    I instinctively stepped back, my heart hammering in my chest. "Hey! I didn¡¯t say you could do it again!" I protested, but the warmth spreading across my face betrayed me.


    His smirk deepened. "Then why didn¡¯t you move away sooner?" he teased, his voice low and smooth.


    I opened my mouth to argue but found myself at a loss for words. I wanted to deny it, to push him away, but the truth was¡ªI didn''t hate it.


    "I... I just wasn''t expecting it," I muttered in an attempt to compose myself while he grabbed my cup and put them both on the pavement next to us.


    He chuckled. "Fair enough. But if you really didn''t like it, you wouldn''t still be standing so close."


    I hated that he was right. His presence was magnetic, drawing me in despite my mind''s protests and the smell of his cologne was heavenly.


    "I¡ª" My words got caught in my throat as he leaned in again, slower this time, giving me the chance to stop him.


    But I didn¡¯t.


    His hands slid firmly around my waist, pulling me closer. This time, he didn¡¯t go straight for my lips. Instead, he dipped his head, pressing a slow, lingering kiss against the curve of my neck. A shiver ran through me, my body frozen in place.


    His lips brushed against mine, softer this time, as if he were testing my resolve. My breath hitched, my body betraying my indecisiveness.


    I should stop this. I should push him away.


    But instead... I closed my eyes and let myself melt into the kiss.


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    With his hands still on my waist, he slowly moved them down, his fingers grazing my curves before gripping my ass, almost lifting up my gown. A shiver ran through me, heat pooling in my stomach as his touch ignited something dangerous. The kiss deepened, lasting longer than I intended¡ªmore than two minutes of his hands exploring every inch of my body, making me forget where we were.


    Then reality hit me like a cold splash of water.


    I immediately pulled back, my breath ragged as I put a hand on his chest to stop him. "We should stop this," I said, my voice firm despite the lingering desire in my body. "I¡¯m not that easy."


    He looked at me, his smirk replaced by something unreadable. "I never said you were," he murmured, his hands still hovering near my waist as if he didn¡¯t want to let go.


    I exhaled sharply and took a step back, gripping my glass of wine tightly. "I won¡¯t take any offense, but¡­ whatever this was, it ends here," I added before turning away, leaving him standing in the garden.


    The cool air did little to cool the heat on my skin as I walked back inside, my mind spinning with emotions I wasn¡¯t ready to face.


    He walked back inside after a minute, finding me seated and waiting so we could wrap up the meeting.


    "I guess we''re done for today," I said, keeping my eyes on my jotter, avoiding his gaze.


    "Yes, we are," he replied. "I¡¯ll call you later tonight to go over everything. I know you might not want to face what just happened right now, so maybe talking when you''re not here will help you process your thoughts and feelings." His voice carried a sincerity that almost seemed real.


    "You jerk," I muttered under my breath, barely loud enough for him to hear. I lifted my head slightly, just enough to meet his eyes for a brief moment, before grabbing my bag and jotter.


    "Thanks for the drink," I added coolly. "I¡¯ll get started on the painting, so calling might only distract me."


    Without waiting for a response, I turned and walked away, ignoring the way my heart still raced from everything that had just happened.


    I hailed an Uber and went straight home, my mind still spinning from everything that had just happened. As soon as I stepped inside, Alice was already eyeing me suspiciously from the couch.


    "What happened, girl? You seem so restless," she asked, her curiosity laced with concern.


    I hesitated, knowing exactly how she¡¯d react. "Nothing," I mumbled, avoiding her gaze as I set my bag down.


    Alice scoffed, crossing her arms. "Girl, you better talk before you piss me off," she said, giving me that sharp look that meant she wasn¡¯t letting this go.


    I sighed, rubbing my lips. "Fine. Alexander kissed me."


    Alice¡¯s eyes widened, her expression unreadable for a moment before she forced a smirk. "Oh? And let me guess¡­ you <i>hated</i> it?"


    I sank onto the couch, hugging a pillow. "I don¡¯t know. It was¡­ unexpected."


    She tilted her head. "Unexpected? Or <i>exactly</i> what you wanted?"


    I shot her a look. "Alice, stop."


    She rolled her eyes. "Oh, come on, Rose. The guy is a billionaire. Handsome. Clearly into you. And <i>you</i>¡ªMiss ''I-don¡¯t-need-distractions''¡ªare blushing like a schoolgirl."


    I groaned, burying my face in the pillow. "It¡¯s not that simple."


    "Sure it is," she replied instantly. But there was something in her tone¡ªsomething just a little off.


    I looked up, frowning. "You¡¯re acting weird."


    Alice shrugged, brushing it off. "I just think you should be careful. Guys like Alexander don¡¯t do things without a reason."


    I sighed, feeling torn. "I know."


    But deep down, I wasn¡¯t sure if I believed that. Because the way Alexander had looked at me¡ªthe way he kissed me¡ªfelt real. And that terrified me.

 Loyalty and Doubt

    Alice stared at me for a moment, her expression unreadable. Then, a slow smirk curled on her lips.


    ¡°So let me get this straight,¡± she said, leaning forward. ¡°Alexander¡ªthe ridiculously rich, ridiculously handsome man kissed you. Twice!¡±


    I sighed, shifting uncomfortably on the couch. ¡°Yes, he did, I didn''t know when it happened it just¡­..¡±


    She let out a small laugh cutting me off, shaking her head. ¡°Wow. And here I thought you were just going over there to <i>talk</i>.¡±


    ¡°I <i>was</i>,¡± I muttered, hugging a pillow. ¡°It just¡­ happened.¡±


    Alice staring at me, tapping her fingers against her knee. ¡°And you let it happen?¡±


    I hesitated, then nodded. ¡°I mean¡­ yeah.¡±


    She raised an eyebrow. ¡°Did you like it?¡±


    I frowned. ¡°Why does it matter?¡±


    ¡°Because, Rose,¡± she said, standing up with a dramatic sigh while coming to sit close to me, ¡°this isn¡¯t just <i>any</i> guy. This is Alexander¡ªbillionaire, art collector, probably has a yacht somewhere just because he can.¡± She turned to face me, her smirk still there, but her tone had a slight edge. ¡°Are you sure you know what you¡¯re doing?¡±


    I frowned. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    Alice shrugged and stood up, heading toward the kitchen. ¡°Guys like him don¡¯t just <i>date</i> people like us. They get what they want, then move on.¡±


    I stiffened. ¡°You don¡¯t even know him.¡±


    She peeked over her shoulder, giving me a look. ¡°Neither do you.¡±


    That hit a little too close. I wanted to argue, to defend Alexander, but the truth was¡ªI <i>didn¡¯t</i> know him, not really.


    Alice took a sip of water, watching me closely. ¡°Just be careful, okay? I¡¯d hate to see you get your hopes up for nothing.¡±


    I wanted to believe she was just being protective. But something about the way she said it, like she <i>expected</i> me to fail¡ªleft a strange feeling in my chest.


    Was she really looking out for me? Or was there something more to it?


    I decided to ignore it and just sleep it off.


    Evening came, and as I was drifting into a deeper sleep, my phone rang, jolting me awake. I hadn¡¯t saved the number yet, so I picked it up without knowing who it was.


    ¡°Good evening, Rose,¡± a voice rumbled over the phone. It was thick and deep, and the instant I heard it, the sleep seemed to lift, and my senses snapped into focus.


    ¡°Good evening,¡± I replied, my voice a little more subtle and low than I intended, like I wasn¡¯t fully awake or willing to engage.


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    ¡°You sound like you¡¯re just waking up. Hope I didn¡¯t disrupt anything?¡± His tone was smooth, and the sincerity in his voice made me feel like I¡¯d just been hit with a wave of warmth.


    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t,¡± I responded, trying to sound indifferent, but Alice was sitting right beside me, and I didn¡¯t want to give away too much.


    I stood up, my body protesting the sudden movement. ¡°Hold on a minute,¡± I muttered, walking into my room to get some privacy.


    Once the door was shut behind me, I could hear his voice again, mocking but still amused. ¡°I thought you weren¡¯t going to pick up my calls with the attitude you left with.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t flatter yourself,¡± I snapped, trying to mask my nerves. ¡°We have a business relationship, and it¡¯d be wrong for me not to pick up, not like you don¡¯t know that.¡±


    I took a deep breath, standing with my back against the door. ¡°It¡¯s late. So, I¡¯d like to know what you¡¯re calling me for at this time.¡±


    He paused for a moment, and then his voice softened, though it still held that steady, confident tone. ¡°I promised you I¡¯d call tonight, and I don¡¯t break promises. So here I am.¡±


    I let out a sigh, my irritation bubbling up. ¡°Well, it¡¯s too late for a call now. I need to get some rest so I can work on the contract you gave me. So from here on out, let your calls be about that, please.¡±


    There was a beat of silence, and I almost thought he wasn¡¯t going to respond.


    ¡°You sure?¡± His voice was quiet, almost too casual, but there was something in it that made my pulse race.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure,¡± I replied firmly, knowing I needed to stick to my boundaries.


    ¡°I¡¯ll respect that,¡± he said, sounding almost reluctant. ¡°But I¡¯ll still check in tomorrow. Don¡¯t work too hard.¡±


    I gritted my teeth. ¡°I won¡¯t. Goodnight, Alexander.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight, Rose.¡±


    As I hung up, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a strange pull inside me and why did this feel more complicated than it should? Was I being too harsh, or was I simply protecting myself from something I wasn¡¯t ready for?


    I shook my head, trying to clear the swirl of emotions creeping in. <i>Tomorrow will be another day</i>, I told myself. <i>No distractions. Just work.</i>


    But as I turned to head back into my room, movement in the hallway made me freeze.


    Alice.


    She was standing just outside my door, her arms crossed, her expression unreadable. Had she been standing there the whole time?


    My stomach twisted. <i>Had she been listening?</i>


    She met my gaze, her lips curving into something that was neither a smile nor a frown


    You seemed tense again, did anything happen? She asked with a face sincerely concerned.


    Naarh, just work i said trying to mask how i really felt


    You know you can always open up to me, I would never judge you, she said while grabbing my hands.


    I looked her in the eye and felt a sincere warmth in her gaze. For a moment, I considered telling her everything¡ªthe kiss, the way Alexander¡¯s voice lingered in my mind, the confusion twisting inside me.


    But something held me back.


    Maybe it was the way she had questioned me earlier, or the strange look she gave me after my call. Or maybe¡­ maybe I just wasn¡¯t ready to share.


    I forced a small smile and squeezed her hand lightly. ¡°I know, Alice. And I appreciate that.¡±


    She tilted her head slightly, studying me like she was searching for something beneath my words. Then, just as quickly, she let out a soft chuckle. ¡°Good. Because you¡¯ve been acting all weird since you came back from that perverts home and I do not want anyone stressing about my little sister.¡± with a smile that seemed affectionate


    I laughed, though it came out more nervous than I intended. ¡°It¡¯s just the stress. This first contract is a big deal for me.¡±


    Alice nodded, but I could tell she wasn¡¯t completely convinced. ¡°Well, don¡¯t let it consume you. And definitely don¡¯t let <i>him</i> consume you.¡±


    My heart skipped a beat. ¡°Him?¡±


    She smirked. ¡°Alexander, of course.¡±


    I swallowed, keeping my face neutral. ¡°It¡¯s just business, Alice.¡±


    She gave me a knowing look, her fingers still loosely wrapped around mine. ¡°Mhm. Sure.¡±


    Before I could respond, she let go of my hand and stretched dramatically. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯m starving. Let¡¯s order something before I collapse.¡±


    I exhaled in relief at the change of subject. ¡°Yeah, food sounds good.¡±


    As Alice walked ahead, I followed, but a lingering thought stayed with me.


    She said she wouldn¡¯t judge me. She said I could open up. But why did it feel like she was waiting for me to slip?


    And why did I feel like I couldn¡¯t trust her with this at all?