I step into the bar, the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses immediately filling the air. The atmosphere is alive, bustling with guests enjoying their evening after a long day of conferences. I spot Blossom behind the counter, gracefully moving between customers, making drinks with efficiency and care.
She doesn’t notice me right away, and I take a moment to watch her. Her hands move expertly, pouring, mixing, and shaking drinks like she’s done it a thousand times.
I’ve seen a lot of bartenders in my life, but there’s something about Blossom’s work ethic that stands out. The way she handlesthe pressure of a crowded bar, the way she juggles multiple orders with ease—it’s impressive.
I can’t help but think, if I had two more Blossoms, I could run an empire of bars. She’s a natural at this, and it makes me think about how much potential she has.
The crowd starts to thin out, the line at the bar clearing, and I take the opportunity to approach her. She looks up and meets my gaze, a smile lighting up her face.
“Busy night?” I ask, leaning against the counter, casually observing the empty space.
“Just another night,” she says with a playful smile, but I can tell she’s as tired as I am.
I’m standing across from her now, watching her expertly prepare the next round of drinks.
“How’s the shift going?” I ask, trying to sound casual, though I’m more focused on her than the task at hand.
“It’s been all right,” she says, setting down a finished drink with ease. “A little chaotic, but nothing I can’t handle.”
I glance over at the kitchen, where Miguel’s eyes are trained on us through the window. His gaze shifts quickly when I catch him, but I don’t acknowledge it.
I glance back at Blossom, noticing the subtle way her lips curve when she speaks, the quiet confidence in her voice. “Need any supplies? I can get you whatever you need,” I offer, trying to make the moment feel casual, normal.
She shakes her head, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “I’m good for now,” she replies, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear.
I take a breath, glancing around the bar, then lean in slightly, lowering my voice. “You know...if you’re free later, I’d love for you to come stay with me again tonight,” I say softly, my words lingering between us.
Blossom looks up at me, her eyes meeting mine. After a beat, she smiles and nods. “I’d like that.”
“All right, I’ll be waiting when your shift ends,” I say, my voice quiet but confident.
I leave the bar, but as I turn to head for the elevator, I glance back at the counter. Amy has returned, and I watch Blossom lean in to say something to her.
Amy’s face lights up with a smile, and they exchange a few words, giggling. I’m too far away to hear exactly what they’re saying, but from their expressions, I can guess that it’s something lighthearted.
They’re laughing about something, likely about me or Nicole, but it doesn’t bother me. In fact, it makes me smile.
As I walk toward the elevator, a cheesy smile spreads across my lips. There’s something endearing about the way they interact, and it makes me feel good. For the first time in a while, I’m not focused on the weight of the world or business deals.
I feel...light.
Like maybe, just maybe, I’m finally getting back to something that feels like happiness.
Later that night, after I’ve returned to the penthouse and settled into the familiar, comfortable space, I’m lying next to Blossom in bed. She’s curled against me, her hair soft against my chest, and I can feel the warmth of her body beside me. The night is quiet, only the sounds of the city creeping in from outside.
I shift slightly, propping myself up on one arm to look at her. Her eyes are closed, but she’s still awake, her breathing steady. I can’t stop thinking about her—about us. About how she’s become this person I can’t seem to shake from my mind.
“I’ve been thinking a lot about Whittney,” I say quietly, breaking the silence between us.
Blossom stirs, looking up at me with soft eyes. “Your wife?” she asks, her voice gentle.
I nod, feeling the familiar ache in my chest. “Yeah. It’s hard not to. I thought I’d never be able to move on, but...with you, things feel different. I can’t explain it, but when I’m with you, it’s like I’m finally starting to let go of the past.”
Blossom’s fingers brush my cheek, and I feel a flutter in my chest. She doesn’t say anything right away, but her eyes say everything.
I lean down, my lips brushing hers gently, and the kiss deepens as the emotions of the night fall away. The connection between us intensifies, and for the first time in a long while, I feel like I might be ready to move forward.
The kiss is slow, passionate, and I take her into my arms, feeling her warm body against me. Her addictive smell of vanilla and rose fills my nose with each kiss, each lick, each movement of her gorgeous body over me.