Page 26 of Wild Tangled Hearts

“I probably look like a drowned rat,” I say, only half joking.

He moves a strand of wet hair from my cheek, then brushes his lips softly against mine. “You’re gorgeous.”

His compliment and gentle kiss cause butterflies to take flight in my belly and heat to pool in my core.

I know, deep down, just how easy it could be to fall for him.

The moment is interrupted by the elevator's ding, and the doors slide open. Sebastian releases me from his warm embrace and takes my hand, his fingers interlacing with my own. With a gentle tug, he leads me into the private foyer of his apartment, and my breath catches in my throat.

Polished marble floors glisten under the soft glow of a crystal chandelier, casting prismatic rainbows across the space. It’s as though I’ve stepped into a world of opulence and elegance, and I feel like an intruder in my own life.

Sebastian takes my hand and leads me into the expansive living area. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic city views, and I’m mesmerized by the glittering lights that stretch out before me.

With a flick of a switch, the marble-encased fireplace crackles to life with a warm and inviting glow, providing a stark contrast to the storm that still rages outside.

He disappears briefly into one of the adjacent rooms, and when he returns, he’s holding a plush towel and dry clothes. He offers them to me. “The washroom is the third door on the left.”

“Thank you,” I say, gratefully.

In the bathroom, I slip into the comfort of an oversized hoodie and soft jogging pants, reveling in the warmth and coziness they provide. With the towel, I dry my hair as much as possible, then brush my fingers through it, attempting to tame the unruly strands. Mascara streaks on my cheeks, and I wipe it away.

As I gaze at my reflection in the mirror, a myriad of emotions swirl within me, and I take a steadying breath.

The prospect of what lies ahead fills me with anticipation. Nerves race through me. But amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains crystal clear — I don’t doubt my decision for a single moment.

I want to be here.

And I’m willing to take a risk, to open my heart to the possibilities that this night may bring.

With a resolute smile, I remind myself of my mom’s advice, that the most incredible moments in life come when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, and when we dare to follow our hearts.

I find Sebastian standing by the fireplace, his eyes fixed on the dancing flames.

He’s changed into dry clothes — a crisp white t-shirt that molds perfectly to his lean torso, accentuating his broad shoulders and defined chest and grey jogging pants that show off his long muscular legs and strong glutes.

God, he’s sexy.

As if sensing my presence, he turns, those dark eyes piercing me with a look that makes my core clench.

He takes a step closer, his charisma commanding the room. “Feel better?” he asks, his voice a rich, velvety timbre that washes over me like a caress.

“Much better,” I admit, taking the glass of wine he offers. “I just wish we could have finished our date. I had a few other surprises in store.”

Sebastian chuckles, his laughter a warm melody in the luxurious penthouse. “Well then, can I get a rain check?”

I grin at his pun, appreciating his sense of humor. “Funny. And yes,” I reply, “because there’s a cute little karaoke bar that I’m dying to take you to.”

His eyes widen, and for a moment, he looks like a deer caught in headlights. “Karaoke?”

“It’s fun, I promise.”

Sebastian steps closer. “I look forward to hearing you sing.”

I chuckle, shaking my head. “Trust me, I can’t carry a tune to save my life. But that’s what makes it entertaining.”

His laughter rings out, a rich and genuine sound that fills the room. “I like that about you.

“What’s that?”

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