Chapter 4: The Date

As we sat at our table, enjoying our meal, I couldn't shake the feeling that everyone in the restaurant was staring at us. I fidgeted nervously in my seat, glancing around the room and trying to avoid eye contact.

Then, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a flash. Had someone had taken a picture of us? Luke noticed my discomfort and put a reassuring hand on my arm. "It's okay," he said softly.

"It can't be easy always being photographed and scrutinized by the media," I said sympathetically.

Luke shrugged. "It comes with the territory. It's something I've learned to live with.”

I took a deep breath and tried to relax, reminding myself that as a CEO, Luke was used to being in the public eye. And I would have to get used to it too. But still, the knowledge that someone had taken a picture of us made her feel a bit on edge. The atmosphere was relaxed once again after I shook off my unease.

“Tell me more about yourself,” Luke said, leaning forward slightly. I appreciated the topic change.

I smiled, feeling a little shy. “Well, I’m a bookworm, obviously. I love reading and learning new things. I also enjoy hiking and spending time outdoors.”

“Ah, a nature lover,” Luke said, nodding approvingly. “I can definitely relate to that. There’s something about being out in the fresh air that just feels good for the soul.”

I nodded in agreement, feeling a warm connection between us. “What about you? What do you like to do in your free time?”

Luke shrugged, looking thoughtful. “Honestly, I don’t have a lot of free time these days. My job keeps me pretty busy. But when I do have a chance to unwind, I enjoy going for a run or catching up on some reading. And of course, spending time with you.”

I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks. I was still getting used to the idea of someone as handsome and successful as Luke being interested in me.

“You’re sweet,” I said, looking down at my hands.

Luke smiled, reaching across the table to gently lift my chin. “I mean it, Kiara. You’re a breath of fresh air in my busy life. I’m so glad we met.”

I felt my heart swelling with happiness. We had only just met, but I already felt a deep connection with him. It was both terrifying and exhilarating. “I’m glad we met too,” I said softly, meeting his gaze.

We fell into a comfortable silence for a moment, just enjoying each other’s company. I felt like I could sit here with him forever, just talking and laughing. I had found Luke to be a bit intimidating when we first met with his sharp suits and cool demeanor, but as we spoke, I was surprised to find that he had a quick wit and a great sense of humor.

"You know, Luke, I have to admit, at first I thought you were kind of... well, cold," I said, taking a sip of her wine.

Luke raised an eyebrow, looking amused. "Cold? That's not a very flattering description."

I laughed, feeling a little embarrassed. "I know, I know. But you have to admit, you do have a bit of a stoic vibe."

Luke nodded slowly, his eyes twinkling. "I suppose I can see how you might think that. But you know what they say about still waters running deep."

I smiled, feeling myself relax a little. "I guess so. But seriously, I had no idea you were so witty. You always seem so serious."

Luke chuckled, looking pleased. "I'll take that as a compliment. But you know, Kiara, I think you have a way of bringing out the best in people. You make me want to be more... fun."

I felt my heart flutter, for what felt like the millionth time since I’d met him. I had never felt this way about anyone before, and I was starting to realise that Luke was much more than just a successful CEO with a good sense of humor. He was kind, thoughtful, and attentive, and I couldn't believe her luck in finding him. It had to have been the work of fate, the day he walked into my store.

"I think you're plenty fun, Luke," I said, smiling at him.

Luke grinned back, his eyes sparkling. "Well, then, we'll have to keep hanging out so I can prove it to you."

I felt a thrill of excitement run through me at his words. I had never been in a relationship before, but with Luke, it felt like anything was possible. Before I knew it I was speaking passionately about the bookstore and how I had come to run it with the help of my adoptive parents.

"I never thought I would end up running a bookstore. But when my adoptive parents took me in, they had this little shop that was struggling to stay afloat. They poured all their energy into making it a success, and I fell in love with the place."

Luke listened intently. "It's amazing how much of an impact our parents can have on our lives," he said, nodding in agreement. "I'm sure they must be so proud of you."

I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. "They are. They always tell me how proud they are of everything I've accomplished, even though I'm not technically their daughter."

Luke reached out and took my hand, his touch sending a shiver down my spine. "You know, Kiara, I think it's a testament to your character that you've been able to overcome so much and still be such an amazing person."

I blushed, feeling a little self-conscious. I had never been good at taking compliments, especially not from someone like Luke.

"Thank you," I said, my voice soft. "That means a lot."

Luke squeezed my hand gently, his eyes meeting mine. "I mean it, Kiara. You have a special kind of strength that I find really admirable. And your passion for books and your family... it's inspiring."

I felt my heart swell at his words. “Tell me about your family.”

Luke shifted in his seat, looking down at his hands for a moment before meeting my eyes. "I never really talked about this with anyone before, but I feel like I can trust you," he said, his voice low and serious.

I leaned forward, sensing the weight of his words. "Of course, Luke. You can talk to me about anything."

Luke took a deep breath before continuing. "My mother died when I was young. She had cancer, and it was really tough on my family. My father raised me all on his own and he always made sure I knew I was loved."

I felt a pang of sympathy for him , imagining how difficult it must have been for him to lose his mother at a young age. "I'm sorry, Luke. That must have been really hard for you and your father."

Luke nodded, his eyes a little sad. "It was. But my dad was amazing. He was always there for me, even when it was tough. He taught me everything I know about business and life. I owe everything to him."

I smiled, feeling a little warmth in her heart at the thought of a father who was so devoted to his children. "It sounds like he is an incredible father. You're lucky to have him."

Luke smiled back, a little wistfully. I reached out and touched his hand. Luke's eyes met mine, and for a moment, we held each other's gaze in silence, understanding passing between us. Then, he cleared his throat and leaned back in his seat.

We cleared the last of our food and got up to leave. As we walked out of the restaurant, I shivered slightly in the cold night air. Luke noticed and quickly shrugged off his jacket, holding it out to me. “Here, take my jacket. It’s cold out here.”

I smiled and slipped into the jacket, feeling the warmth of his body lingering on the fabric. “Thanks, that’s very sweet of you.”

We walked in comfortable silence, heading to his car. He opened the door for me and we drove off.

“So, what happens now?” I asked.

Luke reached out and took my hand, his fingers were warm against mine. “Now, I take you home and say goodnight. And then I hope you’ll agree to see me again.”

I nodded, feeling a smile spread across my face. “I’d like that. I’d like that very much.”

He pulled up outside of my house and walked me to the door. When we reached the front door, Luke turned to face me once more, his hand still holding mine.

“Goodnight, Kiara,” he said, his voice soft and gentle.

“Goodnight, Luke,” I replied, feeling a sense of longing in my chest.

Luke leaned in and brushed his lips against my cheek, the warmth of his breath sending shivers down my spine. Then, he stepped back and gave me a small smile.

“Sleep well.”