Leena sat alone at the small wooden table in the guest house's dining area. The place felt just as deserted as it had the night before, with only a handful of staff moving around in silence. There was no morning bustle, no casual chatter—just the occasional clinking of dishes.
A boy, no older than sixteen, approached her table and wordlessly placed a plate of breakfast in front of her—toast, eggs, and some fruit. He didn't meet her gaze, didn't say a word, just turned and walked away as if he wasn't supposed to speak to her.
She frowned, but didn't question it. The eerie nature of this town was beginning to settle under her skin, but she brushed it off. She had a job to do.
After finishing her meal, she went back to her room and decided to freshen up.
The warm water eased the tension in her muscles, but as she stood under the shower, she couldn't shake the feeling of her bath at night.
She shook off the thought, stepped out, and wrapped herself in a towel.
Dressing quickly, she slipped into a thigh-length dress—a deep V-neck number that hugged her curves, showing off just enough to highlight her smooth, caramel-toned skin and the delicate line of her collarbones. It was simple but elegant, feminine but bold. A touch of gloss on her lips, a brush through her damp hair, and she was ready.
Meeting John
The town's café was a cozy, rustic place with wooden beams and the scent of freshly brewed coffee in the air. A few locals sat inside, their quiet conversations pausing when they noticed her. She ignored the stares and scanned the room until she saw him.
John.
He was 28, broad-shouldered and effortlessly handsome in a way that felt almost unfair. His deep-set blue eyes held a mix of mischief and intrigue, framed by thick lashes. His dark brown hair was slightly tousled, the kind of messy that was clearly intentional. A hint of stubble lined his strong jaw, making him look rugged yet refined.
He leaned back in his chair with an easy confidence, dressed in a fitted black T-shirt that clung to his toned frame and well-worn jeans that hinted at a life spent outdoors. The moment he saw her, a slow, knowing smile spread across his lips.
"Well, well," he drawled, his voice smooth and teasing. "They told me I'd be meeting a company rep, but they failed to mention she'd be stunning."
Leena raised a brow, unimpressed. "Flattery won't get you extra points."
John chuckled, leaning forward, his gaze dipping briefly to her neckline before flicking back to her eyes. "Shame. I was hoping it'd at least earn me a coffee date."
She smirked, crossing her arms. "Let's focus on work first. You can charm me later—if you're lucky."
His grin widened. "Oh, sweetheart, I like a challenge."
Leena sighed. This was going to be interesting.