Maia stepped out of Zac's sleek car and onto the cobblestone path leading to the entrance the exquisite restaurant they had chosen for their date: The Butcher's Palace. Maia was really looking forward to this. Zac came around the car, looking dapper in a well-tailored suit, and offered his arm with a charming smile.
"You look absolutely stunning, Maia," he complimented, his gaze lingering on her as they walked towards the entrance.
Maia felt a rush of warmth at his words. "Thank you, Zac. You look pretty sharp yourself."
Zac chuckled softly. "I clean up well when I need to."
Inside the café, they were ushered to a cozy table by a large window overlooking a beautifully landscaped garden. The ambiance was elegant yet inviting, with soft music playing in the background. The waiter handed them the menus and recited the specials for the evening, and Zac suggested ordering steak and a bottle of red wine to complement their meal.
Over dinner, the conversation flowed effortlessly between them. Zac shared anecdotes about his travels and business ventures, while Maia recounted stories from her childhood and her experiences growing up as the daughter of a rich man. Of course, she had to leave out the Hunter part.
Despite the occasional interruptions when Zac checked his phone, their connection felt genuine, and Maia found herself enjoying his company more than she had expected.
"So, tell me about your work," Maia prompted, attempting to steer the conversation back to Zac whenever his attention drifted to his phone.
Zac smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry about that. It's just a busy night for emails, but I promise I'm all yours now."
Maia nodded, trying not to let it bother her. "I understand. Business never sleeps, right?"
Their food arrived, and they savored the perfectly cooked steak and the rich flavors of the wine. The conversation turned to lighter topics, and they found themselves laughing and sharing more personal stories. Midway through dinner, a live band began to play nearby, and Zac's eyes lit up with excitement.
"Would you like to dance?" he asked, extending his hand to Maia.
Maia hesitated for a moment, surprised by the sudden change in atmosphere. "I… I'd love to."
They moved gracefully to the music, the world around them fading into the background as they focused on each other. Zac held her close, his touch warm and reassuring. For a few minutes, everything felt perfect, and Maia allowed herself to relax in Zac's embrace.
"You're a fantastic dancer," Maia remarked, smiling up at him as the song ended.
Zac chuckled softly. "I had a great partner."
As they returned to their table, Zac's expression turned serious, his gaze intense as he looked into Maia's eyes. "Maia, I really like you."
Caught off guard by his sincerity, Maia felt her heart skip a beat. She hadn't expected him to be so direct. "I… I like you too, Zac."
His smile widened, and before Maia could process what was happening, he leaned in and kissed her. It was a soft, lingering kiss, filled with promise and affection. When they pulled apart, Zac's eyes were bright with happiness.
"Come with me," he whispered, taking her hand.
Zac led her to the rooftop lounge of the café, where they were greeted by a panoramic view of the city bathed in moonlight. The night air was cool against Maia's skin, and the sight took her breath away. She felt a mix of emotions swirling inside her, amplified by the wine and the romantic setting.
Zac wrapped his arms around her waist, drawing her close. "This is perfect, isn't it?"
Maia nodded, feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment. She was swept up in the romance of it all, the city lights twinkling below them. When Zac kissed her again, it was deeper and more passionate, and Maia found herself responding with equal fervour .
In that moment, she allowed herself to forget about the complications and uncertainties that had plagued her thoughts earlier. The wine had left her slightly tipsy, and Zac's kisses were intoxicating. As they held each other, Maia's worries melted away, and she embraced the euphoria of being desired and cherished.
After what felt like an eternity, they reluctantly pulled apart, their breaths mingling in the cool night air. Zac brushed a strand of hair away from Maia's face, his expression filled with tenderness.
"I'm so glad I met you, Maia," he murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.
Maia smiled, her heart soaring with happiness and confusion. "I'm glad too, Zac."
Zac led her back downstairs to his car, and they drove through the quiet streets of Silver Moore. The night had been magical, and Maia couldn't help but replay every moment in her mind. As they approached her father's mansion, she felt a pang of reluctance.
"Thank you for tonight, Zac," Maia said softly as they came to a stop.
Zac turned to her, his eyes softening. "Thank you for saying yes to dinner. I hope we can do this again soon."
Maia nodded, her mind racing with conflicting emotions. "Me too."
He leaned in and kissed her once more, a sweet, lingering kiss that left her breathless. When they finally parted, Maia climbed out of the car with shaky legs. She watched Zac drive away before heading inside the mansion.
As she walked through the grand foyer, Maia felt a strange mix of elation and uncertainty. She pulled out her phone eagerly, wanting to share the whirlwind of emotions with Damien and Flora in their group chat. But to her surprise, neither of them were online.
Maia furrowed her brow, a sense of unease settling over her. It was unusual for them not to be responsive. She sent a quick message anyway, hoping they would reply soon.
Upstairs in her room, Maia changed into her pajamas and flopped onto her bed, staring up at the ceiling. The events of the night replayed in her mind like a movie, each scene tinged with romance and uncertainty.
She sighed heavily, feeling the weight of everything that had transpired. Despite the magical evening with Zac, doubts nagged at her. Was she ready for a relationship? What did Zac expect from her?
Her thoughts drifted to Damien and Flora. They had always been there for her, through thick and thin. The silence from them now felt ominous, and Maia couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong.
Eventually, exhaustion caught up with her, and she drifted off to sleep, her dreams a chaotic mix of dancing with Zac, running through dark forests, and the haunting howls of wolves echoing in the distance.