Echoes-of-Affection

d kept talking about what w

auction? "Do I look like an old man's chick?" Alice asked

l be an old man's chick, who knows?" I said, adding a

inally going to tell me what happened between you and that guy who bought your painting? Alexander

... happened. I asked what kind of watch he was wearing, and someh

asked with her eyes beaming with

e, why are your eyes beaming with so much curiosity? I s

a pillow at me. I dodg

nd go to bed. "I might have forgotten the name, so maybe I'll reme

nown number. My heart skipped a beat as I answe

ice came through. It was smooth and

, trying to keep my voi

e of the Heart', and I think it would be perfect for a place in my home." But I was h

e. "Of course! I'd be happy to help. "D

me to discuss it further. "That way, you can see the space where the painting will

also knew that seeing the space would help me create something truly special. "That sounds g

. "I want you to have a clear idea o

ided to trust him. "Alright,

rnoon?" he suggested

nfirmed. "Just send me the

text you the details s

ced Alice lounging on the couch

ing her attention. "Alexander just called and asked me to meet him

y. "Really? At his place? That's e

see the space where the painting will be displayed and, even though I could still handle myself, "I'm not a scar

Just because you can handle yourself doesn't mean you shouldn't

again. "Thanks, Alice. I'll be careful, I pro

sundress gown in a soft pastel color, perfect for the warm weather and appropriate for a professional

ion and curiosity during the ride. When I arrived at his address, I was greeted by a grand estate that exuded elegance and sophistication

arm smile. He was wearing a black T-shirt, knee-length gray shorts, and Prada slides.

ng to keep my nerves in chec

me to follow. "Let me show you the sp

or and the sense of tranquility that filled the air. Alexander led me to a spacious l

natural light. "I loved 'Eclipse of the Heart' because it brought a sense of depth and emotion to the room."

hat you mean. I have a few ideas already, but I would love to hear more

I trust your artistic vision, Rose. After all, you're the one who created

focus on the task at hand. "Thank you. I'll do my

ideas, Alexander's tone shifted slightly. "You know, I was really captivated by you at t

ed by his words. "Differen

an intensity that made my heart race. "You're genuine,

and uncertainty. "That's kind of you

ntinued, cutting me short with his voice softening.

er, trying to steer the conversation back to the painti

our judgment, Rose. But if I had to choose, I would sa

notes. "That should work well

wn to the kitchen to

the bottle to my face, "It's a ra

rich, dark liquid inside. The label, adorned with intricate gold and cream details, sp

decision. I didn't see any harm in having a bottle of wine since w

cup to the brim. He poured half a glass int

I didn't want to drink it alone. "I am happy sharing this bottle with you," he said w

walk with m

p me get up from my sitting position waiting

is hand and accepted, and as he drew me up, his hand

nd jasmine filling the air. Alexander pointed out various features of his estate, each more impressive than the last. Ther

rveling at the artistry and care that had

. "It's one of my favorite places

ther, we eventually reached a secluded corner of the garden where a charming gazebo stoo

f anticipation. "It's where I come to think and escape from the world for a whil

e. "I can see why you like it here," I added, looking about t

took a step closer, his hand gently leaving my hands. He reached up and used his fingers to gently tuck a few stray hairs behind my ear, clearing the

I can't quite put into words. It's like

down my spine, unsure of how to re

ith his free hand slowly moving upward from my w

that I'm looking forward to seeing more o

. I could not resist, I would feel bad spilling a glass of

ensity. The kiss was tender and full of emotion. With our wine glasses still in han