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“Wow, this place is incredible,” I remark, unable to contain my awe as I take in the elegant décor and tasteful furniture.

He chuckles softly, a hint of pride in his voice as he gestures for me to make myself at home. “Glad you like it,” he says, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he turns to head towards the kitchen.

“So, would you like anything to eat?” Ethan asks, opening the fridge and peering inside as if he’s expecting to find a feast waiting for us.

I shake my head, unable to suppress a smile at his enthusiasm. “Honestly, I’m not really hungry,” I admit, my stomach still churning from the disastrous date earlier.

He frowns, concern flickering in his eyes as he turns to face me. “Are you sure? I could whip up something quick if you’d like.”

I shake my head, waving off his offer with a reassuring smile. “No, really, I’m fine. I think I’ll just go freshen up and maybe get some sleep.”

“Alright, suit yourself,” Ethan replies as he heads out of the kitchen. “The guest bedroom is this way.”

He leads me down a hallway lined with sleek, modern artwork and soft lighting. We reach a door, and he opens it.

The room is spacious and elegantly decorated, with plush furnishings and tasteful accents. A large window overlooks the city below, offering a breathtaking view of the twinkling lights and bustling streets.

The king-sized bed is adorned with crisp white linens and fluffy pillows, inviting me to sink into its comfort. A sleek desk sits against one wall, complete with a stylish lamp.

“The bathroom is that way,” he says, pointing at a glass door in a corner of the room. “I have some shirts in the closet. You can choose any to change into. Let me know if you need anything.”

“Thank you.”

As he exits the room, I take a moment to appreciate the peaceful surroundings before I walk into the Jacuzzi bathroom, strip out of my clothes, and take a shower.

By the time I am done, it has already started raining heavily. I turn my attention to the closet. I open the doors to find an array of neatly folded shirts and sweaters, each one bearing Ethan’s unmistakable scent.

I select a soft, oversized shirt and slip it over my head, relishing the warmth and comfort it provides. Unable to sleep, I head back to the living room.

I find Ethan sprawled on a couch eating pizza, his eyes focused on the television watching as the business news is being read. He’s now changed into a sweatshirt and matching sweatpants.

“Thanks for letting me borrow your shirt,” I say, trying to pull it down to the middle of my thighs as I take a seat on a couch adjacent to his.

There’s an unreadable expression in his eyes as he takes me in. I can bet that I noticed him swallow hard.

“Pizza?” he asks, tearing his eyes away from me.

“How were you able to order food at this time of the night and in this storm?” I take the warm slice that he offers.

“I had it in my fridge. It’s leftovers.”

“Oh.” I take a bite of the pepperoni pizza, relishing its flavor. I was too busy trying to think up an exit strategy while listening to Tom all at the same time to enjoy my food.”

He offers me his glass of red wine, and I take it. “Are you trying to get me drunk?” I ask as I take a sip of the sweet drink.

“A little red wine has never hurt anyone,’’ he replies with a smile.

For a split second, we both stare at each other, not saying a word. “Could I please change the channel?” I ask, breaking the silence.

He takes the TV remote and stretches it out to me. As I reach for it, his fingers slightly graze my skin, sending a jolt of electricity through my whole body.

I surf through the channels and then settle for a reality show. The rain outside increases, and soon, I’m shivering from the cold, even though the heater is on.

“Come here, you look like you can use some heat,” Ethan commands, and as if I’m being controlled, I find myself getting out of my chair and joining him in his.

14

Jessica

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