As the meeting came to a close, Ethan conferred with Logan. "Hey, I just want to make sure your flight will make it back in time for the fundraiser this weekend."
"No worries, man," Logan said, giving a reassuring nod.
"You know I can't be around Lauren right now," Ethan continued, his tone serious. "She stopped by my place the other day, and let's just say it could have caused a lot of problems with Olivia and me. It's clear that Lauren wants to get back together, and I can't jeopardize what I have with Olivia."
"Shit, Ethan, I'm sorry, man. I didn't know," Logan responded, concern evident in his voice. "I'll handle all the interactions with Kriss Industries so the lines won't get blurred. You focus on Olivia."
Ethan nodded appreciatively. "Thanks, Logan. I need to make sure Olivia knows she's my priority."
"You got it," Logan said, clapping Ethan on the shoulder. "I'll take care of everything. Just make sure things are solid with Olivia. She's a keeper."
Ethan smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "Yeah, she really is."
"So, what are your plans for this weekend?" Logan asked, curiosity piqued.
"Date night," Ethan replied with a grin. "I plan on taking Olivia out for dinner and then over to Plexus."
"Plexus? Really?" Logan raised an eyebrow. "That doesn't seem like her scene."
Ethan chuckled. "Well, she doesn't know we own the bar. It has a great karaoke setup, and I've been dying to hear her sing since Colorado. She has an amazing voice. Music makes her happy, so I hope it will be a win-win situation. And who knows, maybe it'll help me score some points with her," he added with a smirk.
Logan laughed. "You're always thinking a few steps ahead. Just make sure it's about her and not just your own agenda."
"Absolutely," Ethan said, his tone more serious. "It's not just about impressing her. I want to create a special night for her, something memorable. She deserves it."
"Sounds like a solid plan," Logan said. "Just remember, keep it genuine. Olivia's smart—she'll see through anything less."
"Trust me, Logan. I'm all in," Ethan replied, a determined look in his eyes. "I want her to see how much she means to me, and I'm willing to put in the effort to show her that."
Logan nodded. "Good. Now go make it a night she won't forget."
Olivia
Olivia was brimming with excitement. Ethan had planned a date night and wouldn't divulge a single detail about it. She woke up feeling a rush of anticipation, eager to see what the evening held. When the doorbell rang, she flung it open, her heart skipping a beat in the hope of seeing Ethan. Instead, a delivery man stood there with a huge box.
"Um, thanks," she said, taking the box and closing the door.
Placing the box on the counter, she removed the lid and gasped. Inside was the most gorgeous dress she had ever seen. It was a deep, vibrant red, covered in delicate sequins that shimmered with every movement. The dress was a perfect blend of elegance and allure, featuring a sweetheart neckline that gracefully accentuated her collarbones and a fitted bodice that flattered her figure. The sequins cascaded down the dress, catching the light and creating a dazzling effect. The skirt flowed into a soft, ethereal chiffon, adding a touch of romance to the glamorous ensemble.
Olivia gently lifted the dress from the box, holding it up to admire its beauty. She couldn't believe Ethan had chosen something so perfect for her. As she ran her fingers over the intricate sequins, she felt a wave of affection for him. He had put so much thought into making this night memorable.
She carefully hung the dress up and rechecked the box, finding a note tucked inside.
"Can't wait to see you in this. Be ready by 7. – Ethan."
Her heart fluttered. She spent the rest of the day preparing and imagining what Ethan had in store for them. She felt like a queen when she slipped into the dress and looked at herself in the mirror. The dress hugged her in all the right places, and the way it sparkled made her feel like she was walking on stardust. She completed her look with a pair of elegant heels and a touch of makeup, enhancing her natural beauty.
As the clock neared seven, Olivia's excitement only grew. She couldn't wait to see Ethan's reaction and discover his plans for their evening together. The anticipation was almost too much to bear, and she glanced at the clock every few minutes.
Over the past few months, Olivia had come to recognize just how deep her feelings for Ethan had grown. She loved spending time with him, cherishing every moment they shared. She had come to adore his gruff exterior, often perceived as grumpiness by others. It was his way of protecting himself and those he cared about, and she found it endearing.
Ethan's way of taking control, especially in their more intimate moments, sent shivers down her spine. He had a way of making her feel safe and cherished, even when he was demanding. His scent was intoxicating, a blend of musk and something uniquely him, and she often found herself leaning in just to breathe him in.
How he cared for her, whether it was making sure she had everything she needed at work or simply holding her close during a quiet evening at home, made her heart swell with love. She loved how he would gently brush her hair aside or how he looked at her with those piercing eyes that seemed to see right through to her soul.
Her excitement for the evening grew even more as she thought about all these things. She wanted to make tonight special, not just for him but for both of them. She wanted to show him how much she appreciated and loved him, how much he meant to her. The dress he had sent over was beautiful, and she couldn't wait to see his reaction when he saw her in it.
With each passing minute, her heart beat faster, filled with anticipation and love. She glanced at the clock again, willing time to move faster, eager to be in his arms and spend the night enveloped in their shared warmth and passion. Tonight, she wanted to make every moment count, to show him just how deeply she loved him and how much she looked forward to their future together.