Chapter 11: Ready to buy car

After a splendid night at Bar 101, Luke and Seraphina Shangguan left the establishment together, ready to head home. The bustling heart of Shanghai was still aglow with city lights, and a gentle breeze brought a refreshing coolness to the night air.

As they waited by the roadside for a taxi, Seraphina suddenly spoke up, "Luke, there's something I'd like to share with you."

Upon hearing this, Luke's heart raced with nerves. He knew Seraphina harboured feelings for him, but he hadn't yet prepared himself to respond. Tentatively, he asked, "What is it?"

Taking a deep breath, Seraphina confessed, "I've always been quite fond of you, Luke. I realise this may come as a surprise, but I wanted you to know how I feel."

Luke was taken aback by her admission. He had always held a special affection for Seraphina, but he hadn't prepared himself to confront the matter. After a moment's hesitation, he faced her and said, "Seraphina, I'm grateful for your feelings, but I need some time to think things through."

Seraphina, feeling somewhat disheartened, smiled gently and nodded, replying, "That's all right, I understand. If you need time, I can wait."

As Luke gazed into Seraphina's bright eyes, he sensed the whirlwind of emotions stirring within her. He was filled with a mixture of wonder and helplessness, as he hadn't yet found the courage to respond to her confession.

They stood in silence for a while before Luke said, "Regardless, I'm not in a position to drive you home right now."

Seraphina laughed softly and replied, "That's fine, I can manage on my own. But, do you really not have a car?"

Shaking his head, Luke explained, "It's not that I don't have one; I simply haven't purchased one yet."

Considering Luke's situation, Seraphina suggested, "Why don't you think about buying a car, Luke? It would certainly make getting around much more convenient."

Luke thought this was a splendid idea, and told Seraphina he would contemplate acquiring a vehicle, though the exact make and model would be determined later.

The pair stood quietly by the roadside, awaiting their taxi as the night breeze whispered around them, carrying the lingering scent of the bar. Luke felt a peculiar pressure building within him, but he recognised that this was a matter requiring courage to face.

Eventually, a taxi arrived. Seraphina and Luke climbed into the back seat, and the vehicle slowly drove towards Luke's villa. The scenery outside blurred by in silence, as both passengers pondered their own feelings.

As Luke exited the taxi, Seraphina smiled her farewell and walked away. He watched her retreating figure, his heart heavy with emotion. He hadn't immediately reciprocated Seraphina's feelings, but he didn't want to reject her outright. He decided to reflect on his own emotions before making a decision.

With a sense of emptiness and unease, Luke returned home and switched on his computer, penning a journal entry about his current emotional state.

He thought of his past, and of his future. He considered the people he had loved, and those he would love in the days to come. He felt young, with ample time to experience the beauty life had to offer.

He wrote through the night until the first light of dawn seeped in, and then finally, exhaustion took hold and he slept. In his dreams, he saw himself strolling through a verdant meadow with Seraphina, bathed in warm sunlight, surrounded by picturesque scenery. His heart felt lighter, as if all his worries had been left behind.

The following day, Luke awoke with a resolve to earnestly consider his romantic predicament. A thought crossed his mind: he needed a car.

Recognising the convenience a car would provide him in the city, he turned on his computer and began researching various automotive brands and models. He was presented with a plethora of choices, yet he couldn't make a decision.

He resolved to visit several car dealerships to gain firsthand experience and knowledge of the vehicles. After freshening up, he ventured out to explore his options.

Following numerous visits and comparisons, Luke ultimately settled on purchasing a sleek, black Maybach GLS600 SUV. The vehicle exuded a refined balance of sophistication and style, discreet luxury, and versatility, accommodating his various needs.

Upon returning home, Luke decided to call Seraphina to discuss both his emotional state and his decision to purchase a car. The phone rang a few times before Seraphina answered, her voice tinged with disappointment.

"Seraphina, I spent last night reflecting on our relationship. I truly cherish our friendship and the wonderful moments we've shared, but I'm not ready to face romantic matters just yet," Luke confided.

"I understand, Luke. Don't force yourself. I'll wait for you," Seraphina replied, her voice resolute and steadfast.

"By the way, Seraphina, I thought about needing a car last night and visited some dealerships today. I've decided on a black Maybach GLS600 SUV. It's both elegant and stylish, perfect for my varying requirements," Luke shared his decision with Seraphina.

"Wow, that sounds like a fantastic car! I wish I had one like that," Seraphina exclaimed, her voice filled with admiration and longing.

Luke chuckled, "Once I have it, we can go for a spin together! However, I still need some time to sort out my feelings. I hope you can understand."

"No problem, Luke. I'll wait for you," Seraphina assured him, her voice brimming with trust and determination.

Their conversation concluded, and Luke felt a sense of relief, as if a weight had been lifted from his chest. The pressure he'd felt regarding his emotions and Seraphina's confession had eased somewhat, and he found solace in the knowledge that he had time to ponder his heart's desires.