Chapter 33

“Why didn’t you give me a heads up about your dinner with him?” Valerian questioned.

“Would you like some tea?”

“No, Hailey, I don’t want tea. I want clarity.”

“He was about to leave, and dinner wasn’t premeditated—it just happened.”

“Couldn’t you have shot me a quick text? It would have put my mind at ease.” His tone softened slightly.

“I understand, and I honestly forgot. Can we let it go? I don’t want to argue.”

“I don’t want to argue either, Hailey.” He moved closer. “Tomorrow is our first official date.”

“Really? What’s the plan, sir?”

“A little bit of this, a little bit of that.” He gave her a wistful smile. “Now that I know you’re safe, I’ll head out.”

She followed him to the door and bid him goodbye.

Feeling a chill, she changed into her comfy pajamas and settled in front of the TV. This was her usual Thursday night routine. She was grateful tomorrow was Friday.

When sleepiness set in, she switched off the TV and headed to bed.

The next morning, she arrived at work a bit early. She wanted to wrap up her tasks quickly so she could head home and prepare for her date with Valerian.

The day seemed to drag on. Every five minutes felt like just one. So, she dove deeper into her work, trying to concentrate harder.

When the clock finally struck five, she had finished her work and hurried out.

She dashed to the bus station to catch a ride home.

She shot Valerian a text.

Hailey

Hey, I went home already. I wanted to change.

Valerian

Okay, I will come to fetch you in about an hour because I also need to freshen up a bit.

Hailey

Okay, thanks.

Valerian

Anything for you.

She plugged her phone into the charger and began to get ready. She tried on various outfits, deciding on a red dress.

Hailey went to the bathroom to shave, then hopped into the shower. The water was a welcome relief after a long day.

She dried her hair, slipped into the dress, applied her makeup, and stepped into her heels—with five minutes to spare.

Valerian was never late. He was always punctual, if not early. She locked her apartment and waited outside, spotting his car pulling up.

He stepped out of the car. “You look stunning, Hailey.” He handed her a bouquet of red roses and kissed her cheek. “For you.”

“Thank you. They match my dress.”

He guided her to the car and held the door open for her. She thanked him, and he climbed in.

She watched him as he walked around the car. He looked handsome in his suit.

He turned the key, the engine roared to life, and they were off. She wondered about their destination. “Where are we headed?”

“It’s a surprise.”

“Okay.” She inhaled the scent of the roses—they smelled wonderful.

They drove for about an hour, the city lights looking magical in the night.

It seemed they were ascending a steep mountain road. When they finally arrived, the place looked breathtaking.

She stepped out of the car and a valet took the keys.

Valerian extended his arm to her. “Shall we?”

She accepted.

A red carpet greeted them. “Welcome to Magnolia, Miss and Sir.”

~This place is stunning~, she thought.

“I reserved an outdoor table,” Valerian informed her.

“Valerian?”

“Yes?”

“Apologies, sir, this way.” A staff member guided them up the stairs and outside.

She had never witnessed such a view in her life.

~This can’t be real~, she thought. It felt like a dream. The view was too magnificent, and they were the only ones outside.

Valerian pulled out her chair. She sat down and he pushed it in for her.

He then took his seat. “I ordered in advance, so you don’t have to worry about it.”

“Great.” She was relieved. She didn’t want to risk ordering something she wouldn’t enjoy.

She heard a click and turned to see Valerian snapping pictures of her.

She laughed. “Stop it!”

“Never.” He reached across the table to touch her hand. “I want to freeze this moment with you forever.”