First Date

After returning home, I sat at my desk and my mood gradually calmed down. It was a challenging task, but I knew I had to give it my all. I took out a notebook and began to carefully study Henry's itinerary, looking for the right time and place to make further contact. 

Through social media and public information about some business events, I learned that Henry would attend a high-end art exhibition next week. Such an environment was perfect for further interaction, as it would not only showcase my insights into art but would also help to close the distance between us in an elegant atmosphere. 

I decided to carry out my next steps at this art exhibition. This decision filled me with a mixture of nerves and anticipation. I knew this was an important opportunity that I couldn't afford to miss. 

I picked up my phone and drafted a message: "Henry, you mentioned last time that you were very interested in art exhibitions. There is a very exciting exhibition next week, and I would like to invite you to it. I hope to have the opportunity to talk again." Taking a deep breath, I hit the send button and waited for his reply with bated breath. 

Every second seemed to stretch on forever, my heartbeat accelerated, and the palms of my hands were slightly sweaty. I knew that if Henry accepted the invitation, it would be a significant turning point in our relationship. 

My phone vibrated and I eagerly opened the message. Henry's reply brought me joy: "Zoe, I am delighted to receive your invitation. I'm also looking forward to the exhibition. See you there." I smiled, filled with anticipation and confidence. Henry's acceptance was a relief and also made me more determined about my plan. 

Tonight was an important night, and I stood in front of the mirror, carefully applying my makeup. Every stroke was meticulously crafted to ensure my look was flawless. I chose an elegant yet sexy evening gown that perfectly outlined my figure. I turned slightly to check that the zipper was pulled up at the back, then put on those dazzling earrings. 

Taking a deep breath, I reminded myself that this was a game of revenge and I had to go all out. I picked up my clutch bag, gave it one last check to make sure it contained my phone, lipstick, and that carefully prepared business card. As I stepped out of the house, my heart was filled with nerves and anticipation. The taxi was already waiting downstairs, I got in, and told the driver my destination. The night scene outside the car window flew past quickly, and my heartbeat gradually picked up. This night, I had to give it my all. 

When I entered the restaurant's grand doors, I was struck by the opulent scene before me. Crystal chandeliers twinkled overhead, and elegant music wafted around my ears. Henry was already waiting at the dining table, and a flash of admiration and appreciation crossed his eyes when he saw me. I smiled as I walked toward him, my heart pounding faster, but I reminded myself that this was just part of the game. 

Henry stood up, pulled out a chair for me like a gentleman, and said with a smile, "Zoe, you look stunning tonight." His gaze was tender and profound, causing my heart to race. 

"Thank you, Henry," I responded with a smile, "You look very handsome tonight as well." 

After we sat down, we began to chat. Henry's voice was gentle and deep as he spoke of his work and hobbies. I responded with a smile, sharing some of my own stories. Our conversation flowed smoothly and naturally, the sparks between us filling the air. I felt a rush of excitement but immediately reminded myself that this was only a game of revenge. 

"Zoe, your insights into art are truly unique," Henry said, "I rarely meet women who are as smart and beautiful as you are." 

"Thank you for your compliments, Henry," I responded with a smile, "It is also a great honor for me to interact with someone as successful and charming as you." 

We talked about business and art, where I displayed my deep insights into these fields. Henry seemed very interested, and his gaze never left me. He expressed his admiration for my intelligence, which gave me a sense of satisfaction, but also reminded me that this was just to draw him deeper into my trap. 

"Your analysis of business trends is incisive," Henry said, "I've never heard such in-depth insights." 

"I'm glad you find it interesting," I responded with a smile, "I've spent quite some time and effort in this area over the years." 

During our conversation, I deliberately sent subtle flirtatious signals with my smiles and glances. Henry obviously picked up on my hints, and his gaze began to show a keen interest. I touched his arm lightly and smiled, saying, "Henry, it's really a pleasure to be with you." He smiled back, his gaze filled with tenderness and anticipation. 

"Zoe, your company is my greatest pleasure tonight," Henry said, his voice carrying a hint of intimacy. 

"I also enjoy our time together," I replied softly, feeling a warmth inside but immediately reminding myself that this was just a game of revenge. 

During the dinner, I began to share my personal stories, including my upbringing and perspective on life. Henry listened attentively, occasionally expressing sympathy and admiration for my stories. He shared his own stories as well, and the distance between us became closer. I felt warmth, but I immediately reminded myself that this was only a game of revenge. 

"When I was a child, I always liked to draw, and later I developed a strong interest in art. Art gives me peace and fulfillment," I said. 

Henry nodded, his eyes showing a tender flash, "Zoe, your story is touching. I have similar experiences, and art has always been an indispensable part of my life." 

We ordered a bottle of wine, and Henry poured me a glass. The candlelight flickered on the dining table as the soft music lingered in our ears. We toasted and drank together, our gazes intermingling in the candlelight, and I felt my heart race, knowing I was getting closer to my goal. 

"It's been a wonderful evening," I said to Henry with a smile. 

"Indeed, Zoe. I have enjoyed your company very much," he responded, his gaze full of tenderness and anticipation. 

Even though I kept reminding myself that this was only a game of revenge, the interactions with Henry gave me a sense of genuine feeling. I began to doubt whether my plan was right and whether I should continue. Sitting at the dining table, I was filled with conflict and struggle. In the end, though, I reminded myself that I had to keep going and make Jason pay. 

"Zoe, you can't forget your goal," I muttered to myself, "It's just part of the game." 

During the conversation, Henry showed his care for me. He asked me about my recent work and life, expressing concern for my health and mood. Henry's tenderness and considerateness brought me a moment of warmth, but I immediately reminded myself not to be confused by appearances. This was just a part of revenge, and I couldn't get too deeply involved. 

"Work has been a bit busy lately, but everything is fine," I said with a smile, "Thank you for your concern, Henry." 

"You must take good care of yourself," Henry said gently, "Your health is very important to me." 

As dinner drew to a close, Henry unintentionally held my hand gently, his gaze full of tenderness and anticipation. "Zoe, time spent with you is always so beautiful," he said softly. My heart raced and my palms sweat slightly, but I knew that all this was part of my plan. I responded with a smile: "Henry, I also really enjoy our time together." 

Henry's hand was warm and firm, his gaze affectionate and sincere, and complex emotions surged within me. 

After dinner, Henry offered to take me home. Smiling, I accepted his kind offer. In the car, we continued to chat easily and pleasantly, with a very harmonious atmosphere. Henry spoke of some recent challenges in his work, and I shared some interesting things about art and travel. Our conversation was smooth and natural, and it seemed that the distance between us was gradually narrowing. 

"My company is working on an important project recently, it's high-pressured, but I enjoy the challenge," Henry said, his eyes twinkling with determination. 

"You're a workaholic, but such pressure can also stimulate more potential, can't it?" I responded with a smile. 

"That's true. Completing each project, I can see the progress of myself and the team, and that feeling is very satisfying." Henry's eyes were full of confidence and passion. 

I nodded empathetically, saying, "I feel the same way. Whenever I finish an art piece and see the audience resonate with it, the satisfaction I feel is beyond words." 

Henry looked at me with a smile, his gaze showing appreciation and empathy. "Zoe, you are a very special woman, and it's really pleasant to share these things with you." 

When we arrived at my doorstep, Henry stopped the car and turned to look at me. His eyes were extra deep in the dimly lit car, filled with tenderness and anticipation. Holding my hand gently, he said softly, "Tonight was truly enjoyable, Zoe. I'm looking forward to our next meeting." 

I responded with a smile, "So am I, Henry. Looking forward to our next meeting. Good night." 

Henry's gaze lingered on my face, carrying a hint of reluctance and anticipation. "Good night, Zoe. Please take care," he said. 

I nodded, smiling as I got out of the car, watching Henry's car slowly drive away. A wave of complex emotions surged within me, mixed with the joy of success, and a hint of unknown expectation and nervousness. 

Back home, I took off the evening gown, put on comfortable pajamas, and sat on the edge of the bed, reflecting on everything that had happened tonight. I felt a sense of satisfaction but knew this was just the beginning. I needed to seize every opportunity to ensure that Henry's interest in me continued to deepen. 

I took out the notebook and recorded the key points of the evening. Every reaction and every word from Henry was meticulously noted down on paper. I thought back on our conversation, pondering how to move forward. 

"Zoe, you did well," I reassured myself, "But this is just the first step; you must continue to move forward and make Henry fall in love with you completely." 

Sitting by the window, I stared at the city's nightscape, the lights glittering as if whispering to me. Thinking back to Henry's tender gaze and our intimate moments, my heart was filled with determination and resolve. 

To ensure the smooth progression of the plan, I decided to further understand Henry's lifestyle and hobbies. I turned on the computer and began searching for more information about Henry, checking his social media and public records, trying to find more details that could be of use. 

In the process of my research, I discovered that Henry was also very passionate about philanthropy and often participated in various charitable activities. This gave me a new plan of attack; I could get closer to him by being involved in these activities. 

At the same time, I realized that besides attracting Henry, I also needed to maintain my independence and charm. This was not just about revenge on Jason; it was also about proving my own worth. I decided to continue improving my professional skills in the following days and get involved in some new projects to make myself even more distinguished in my career. 

I took a deep breath and closed the notebook, my heart full of firmness and determination. No matter what challenges the future holds, I have to make Jason pay, and I also have to find true happiness for myself.