My breath hitched in my throat. Shock and surprise crashed over me. Was I just about to admit my… feelings for him?

I shook my head. No, no! Yes, he did affect me a lot, but I didn’t do the ‘L’ word.

Not wanting to chew over my treacherous mind, I padded into my closet and reached for the maroon dress Cassie sent me. A very short and backless one she wanted me to wear on this date.

Give him some tease. Were her exact words.

Though the dress was beautiful, I didn’t know where he was taking me. I asked him so I could wear something accordingly, but he said to get into anything decent I wanted. He didn’t care as long as I was with him.

A blush rose up my cheeks. Mr. Valencian could be cheesy sometimes. I didn’t know he had it in his bones.

But of course, I wasn’t going to listen to him. As I didn’t know if it was a public place or not, I grabbed for a jacket to wear over the dress. Then my eyes fell on the red gown he’d gifted me. It called me to wear it, but like every other day, with difficulties, I gave it my back and walked out of the closet.

Once I was ready with light makeup and a low bun just above my neck, I inspected my look once again in the mirror. Brushing away some loose curls from my face, I tugged the ends of my dress a little lower.

A breath snuck through my lips. I was ready.

And just at that moment, the doorbell rang. So did my heart.

I glanced at the watch. Seven P.M. sharp.

My mouth went dry, and my hands turned clammy. God, why was I so nervous?

It’s okay, Em. You can do it!

Chanting the mantra in my head, I grabbed my purse and trudged downstairs.

Once at the door, I found him tackled into Mom’s bear hug. As surprising as it was, a soft smile was stretched across his face as he returned Mom’s affection.

Flaunting a black tux and his usual rough look, he didn’t fail to take my breath away. Like always.

“I thought you forgot the way to our house. The only times we get to meet you if there are some occasions or parties,” she said, pulling away. Affection shone in her eyes. “Though I’m extremely happy to see you here after so many years, can I ask the reason for your sudden visit?”

Before he could answer, I butted it. “We have a business party to join, Mom. That’s why he’s here, to pick me up.”

Along with Mom, his stormy grays also moved to me. They stilled on my face until they traveled to the rest of my body. Slow and lingering touch of his intent gaze had me breathless.