Mia and Alex seemed to sense the chemistry between Calix and Scarlett, and they subtly excused themselves, leaving the two alone.
Calix didn't even notice they were gone, too caught up in Scarlett's sparkling eyes and bright smile.
"So, Scarlett," he said, leaning in closer. "Tell me more about yourself."
Scarlett laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "What do you want to know?"
Calix shrugged, his eyes never leaving hers. "Everything."
Scarlett's smile faltered for a moment, and Calix sensed a hint of vulnerability beneath her surface.
But then she smiled again, and the moment was lost. "Okay, everything it is," she said, taking a sip of her drink.
Calix could feel the tension between them, the spark of attraction that seemed to grow stronger by the minute.
He knew he should pull back, but he couldn't help himself. He was drawn to Scarlett like a moth to flame.
And as they sat there, locked in a silent understanding, Calix knew that he was in trouble.
Big trouble.
Because as he looked into Scarlett's eyes, he saw something there that scared him.
Something that looked a lot like feelings.
Here's a revised continuation:
"I'm starving," Calix said, his eyes locked on Scarlett's. "How about dinner at my place tomorrow?"
Scarlett's eyebrows arched, a hint of surprise in her expression. "Your place?" she repeated, her voice tinged with a hint of curiosity.
Calix nodded, his smile growing wider. "Yeah. I'll cook. And we can... get to know each other better." His eyes sparkled with amusement, and Scarlett's cheeks flushed slightly.
Scarlett's eyes sparkled with amusement, and for a moment, Calix thought he saw a flicker of interest. "Okay. But just dinner, right?" she asked, her voice light and playful.
Calix's smile grew wider. "We'll see," he said, his voice low and husky. Scarlett's eyes narrowed, but she smiled, and Calix knew he had her.
"Tomorrow, then?" he pressed, his eyes locked on hers. Scarlett nodded, and Calix felt a surge of triumph. He was going to get what he wanted, and he was going to enjoy every minute of it.
As they parted ways, Calix couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. He had a feeling that tomorrow night was going to be a lot of fun.
Little did he know, Scarlett was already catching feelings, and tomorrow night might just change everything…