Chapter 34

HAILEY

A smile graced her lips as he tenderly kissed her hand. The waiter arrived with a bottle of champagne, and he took the liberty of pouring it into their glasses.

“Thank you,” Hailey expressed her gratitude as he filled their flutes.

“So, Hailey, what’s your favorite color?”

“Technically it’s not a color, but I’d say black. What about you?”

“Blue. And your favorite food?”

“I’m a pizza girl. What about you?”

He cleared his throat before answering. “I’m partial to any kind of pasta.”

“Fancy, aren’t we?”

Valerian chuckled at her comment. “Really now?”

“Your turn. How many girls have you been with?” Hailey asked, her curiosity piqued.

Valerian seemed taken aback by her question. “Why?”

“I’m just curious.” She fluttered her eyelashes innocently.

“And what will you do with that information?”

“Nothing. Why are you dodging the question?”

“Alright, I’d say three.”

“Three? Seriously? I was expecting you to say you lost count.”

Valerian laughed again. “Hailey, just because many women chase me doesn’t mean I sleep with them all. Only if it’s serious. What about you, Hailey?”

She could tell he was teasing her. “I might have one for now, but the number will grow, don’t worry.”

“Don’t even think about it, Hailey.” His gaze was stern.

They continued their meal, sharing more about themselves.

A soft melody began to play.

“Would you like to dance with me?” Valerian offered.

“I’d love to.” She accepted his hand, and they swayed gently to the rhythm. She felt at peace.

He spun her around, dipped her, and lifted her back up.

His scent was intoxicating, and she found herself drawing closer to him.

They danced until the night was nearly over.

At one in the morning, they decided to call it a night. Valerian removed his blazer and draped it over her shoulders.

“Thank you,” she murmured.

“You’re welcome.”

On the drive home, she drifted off to sleep. She was awakened by Valerian gently stroking her hair.

“We’re here,” he informed her.

She rubbed her sleepy eyes. She was worn out. Valerian exited the car and opened the door for her. She stepped out, clutching her roses.

They reached her front door, and she unlocked it.

He turned her to face him. “I had a wonderful night, Hailey.”

“Me too. Thank you for everything. It was truly magical.” She gave him a shy smile.

He pulled her into his arms, and he kissed her softly at first, then deepened the kiss before pulling away.

“I should get going, Hailey.” He grinned down at her.

“Huh?” She was left in a daze.

“This was our first date, remember? Nothing more than that.”

He kissed her once more, and she melted into him, but he pulled away.

“Go inside so I can leave,” he instructed.

She nodded, and before she went in, she kissed his cheek. “Thank you again for everything.”

He smiled down at her. “You’re welcome.”

She entered her apartment, found a vase, filled it with water, and arranged the roses.