The Heart of Summer

the day brought with courage and confidence. As she got out of bed, she notice

uild within her. Today was the day she would meet Alexa

n growing inside her. She had always been cautious when it came t

a long, hot shower, washing away the stress and anxiety of the

beautiful. Gazing at her reflection in the mirror, she felt a swell of pride. She had come a lo

skipped a beat as she made her way to the door. Tak

ck suit stood before her. He smiled

said in a low, smooth voice. "M

to Mr.

a car to pick her up, but instead, Alexand

tment and into the waiting car, a thr

d the nig

ept Alexander

did he mean by

ed in her mind, ref

out the window in awe. The towering skyscrapers and the

restaurant. Summer's eyes widened as she took

said with a smile. "Mr. Gray

the car. A nervous energy buzzed inside her

ander Grayson b

to handle whatev

urant, Summer's gaze darted aro

i

ayson sipped a glass of wine. When he looked up,

icity shot throu

e had imagined-tall, with dark hair and piercing

washed over her as she

d this ni

handle whatever he

exander stood up, flas

nally meet you," he said i

s smile, trying to

o, Mr. Grayson," she said,

, his eyes twinkli

nder," he said, pullin

a wave of exciteme

e getting h

Alexander's myste

actly did h

n her mind like a storm

couldn't deny the nervousness l

d witty. He had a quick sense of humor that ma

njoying his company. He was easy to talk to, and he s

aited for dessert, Alexander leaned back

ing voice of his. "Tell me more about yoursel

finally feeli

p with passion. "I've been painting since I was

slightly as he nodded, h

work," he said sincerely. "Do

ted, feeling

ith me," she admitted. "But I could

r smiled

e that,"

hrough images of her paintings. Alexander leane

omething-whatever this night had i

nse of connection to Alexander. He seemed to genuinely appreciate her art, and

nd more drawn to Alexander. He was charming and witty, wi

hat she was actually having a good time. Alexander was easy to t

epared to leave, Alexander reached ac

," he said, his voice low and smooth. "Wou

t as she felt a jolt of elec