Page 21 of Declan
“Dancercise? I’d love to do that. I’m Paige Richards.”
“Elise Ramsey. It’s nice to meet you, Paige.”
“You too. Take a look around and let me know if you have any questions.”
“I will. Thank you.”
After spending almost an hour in the store, Elise ended up buying three teddies, two sets of matching bras and panties, a red dress that had a zipper from neck to hem, that she knew she had to have and a pair of red stilettos. She had no idea who she planned on wearing all this for, but she loved sexy clothing.
She told Paige to sign up for the classes and let her know she taught the first one, but there were two other classes also. She left the shop with a big smile on her face.
The following day, Elise found herself perched on her plush sofa, her eyes flitting to the clock every few minutes. The hands seemed to crawl, inching slowly toward eleven, and still, he hadn’t arrived. Anxiety nibbled at her, much like she nibbled onher bottom lip. Could he have changed his mind? If plans had shifted, surely he would have called to let her know.
As disappointment began to settle in, she leaned back against the sofa, only to be jolted upright by a sudden knock at the door. Her heart leaped as she stared at it, anticipation mingling with relief. A second knock spurred her into action, and she sprang up, hurrying to answer. Swinging the door open, she was met with a sight that made her inwardly sigh, his presence was undeniably captivating.
“Hi,” he greeted her, his voice smooth and warm.
“Hi. Come in for a second,” she replied, stepping aside to let him enter.
“Alright.” He removed his hat, wiped his feet on the mat, and stepped into her apartment. He smelled amazing. Elise watched as his eyes roved the space, taking in the surroundings before settling back on her. “This is a nice place,” he remarked appreciatively.
Sighing with contentment, Elise smiled. “I love it, and it’s very convenient.”
“I’m sure it is,” he said, his gaze drifting past her to a collection of photos adorning the wall. “Do you mind?” he asked, nodding toward them.
“No, please go ahead,” she encouraged.
Declan moved toward the wall, studying the photos with interest. He glanced over his shoulder at her, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. “These are of you.”
“Yes. A photographer friend of mine took them.”
The photographs were a striking trio of black-and-white images, capturing her in various elegant poses in her tutu. One showed her standing with her arms gracefully arched above her head, one foot poised delicately against the opposite knee, her entire form balanced on her toes. Another depicted her with one leg extended elegantly behind her, a hand touching it lightly,while her other arm reached skyward. The final image was her favorite, a breathtaking shot of her standing on her toes, bending backward with her arms stretched wide behind her, her gaze lifted upward in serene concentration.
Declan turned to her, admiration in his eyes. “They’re beautiful.”
“Thank you,” she replied, feeling a warm blush spread across her cheeks at the compliment.
“And these are your shoes? They’re called shoes, right?” he asked, a playful grin tugging at his lips as he examined the pink pair of ballet slippers encased in a shadowbox frame.
“Pointe shoes or ballet slippers,” she corrected with a smile. “Used for standing on your toes.”
“I like that the photos are in black and white,” he said, his voice warm as he smiled at her. The photographs, stark and striking, captured moments with a timeless elegance. “They’re stunning.”
“She’s a great photographer,” Elise replied, her own smile reflecting the pride she felt.
“It’s not only the photos. It’s you,” he added, his gaze soft and appreciative.
“Thank you,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, as if sharing a secret.
He walked toward her, each step determined, his eyes never leaving her. He stopped just in front of her, a breath’s distance away. “You’re welcome,” he said quietly, his words hanging in the air between them as they shared a moment of silent connection. Then he stepped back, the spell lightly broken. “If you’re ready, we can head out.”
“I am, just let me grab my purse, sweater and baseball cap.” Her voice was practical, though edged with excitement.
“Yes, ma’am,” he replied with a playful nod.
Elise smiled, a small thrill running through her as she picked up her hat, sweater, purse and keys. She moved toward the door, pleasantly surprised when Declan reached around her to open it, gesturing her through with a nod. She stepped outside, feeling the cool air of the day brush against her skin, as he followed, pulling the door closed behind them. He extended his hand for her keys. After locking the door, he returned them to her with a courteous nod, then took her hand, leading her down the metal steps to the waiting truck. Her heart fluttered, a silent cheer echoing inside her. Yes! His manners were as impeccable as she’d hoped.
Declan opened the passenger door, waiting as she settled into her seat before closing it gently. Walking around the vehicle, he slid into the driver’s seat and glanced at her. “Seatbelt, please.”
