As soon as the car pulled up, I could not believe my eyes. We arrived at a swanky hotel on the posh side of the city. The grand building stood tall with a fancy fountain in the front and valet attendants in crisp suits waiting to open the car doors. I felt like I was in some kind of time loop. Like I had accidentally stepped into a fancy 1920s movie.
Mr. Cross gracefully stepped out of the vehicle, and I followed suit. "Charles..." He called out to the driver who had kindly opened the door for us.
Before exiting the car, I pulled my hoodie over my head. The last thing I wanted was for anyone, besides my hot substitute teacher, to see my face. Thanks to my deep hoodie, Mr. Cross driver was unable to get a good look at me. But I could sense his curiosity had peaked.
The driver replied, "Yes, sir," in a calm tone.
I must say, I was pretty caught off guard by his voice. It was just so... mellow.
"Have Claire call me." Mr. Cross instructed.
"I will relay the message, sir."
“Also..." Mr. Cross paused. He appeared deep in contemplation. "Never mind Charles. I will take care of this issue myself."
My readers. Your girl was puzzled. My teacher was giving out instructions like a drug lord. I swear I wanted to cry because I could not help but wonder if Mr. Cross was more than just a mere substitute. Honestly, the last thing I needed was to get caught up in some crazy shit like my mother did.
"Tomorrow, will we be meeting at our usual time?" Charles inquired, and I could not help but detect the inquisitive look he gave me.
Mr. Cross let out a deep sigh as his hand extended towards me. I was taken aback and barely had time to process the unexpected gesture before his arm was wrapped around my waist. Pulling me towards him. I gasped in surprise. My hand instinctively pressed against his firm abdomen to steady myself.
Oh my God! If I thought he smelled good before, I was seriously mistaken because holy smoke. He smelled better than sin. I was literally underneath his arm right now, and I just wanted to stay forever. I was not messing around. Forget about living anywhere else. I want to camp out right here for the rest of my life.
I took a big whiff and let out a deep breath. I never wanted to forget his smell. But then I heard a little laugh. I peeked up to see Mr. Cross looking at me. And would you know it? I started to blush. His expression was so wholesome. It left me confused. Weren't we complete strangers this morning? Look at us now! I mean, what the heck happened?
"Make sure to arrive at ten o'clock tomorrow," Mr. Cross instructed Charles. "It's going to be a packed day."
Charles gave a slight nod before uttering a soft, "Good night, sir." He then made his way back to the waiting car. This left Mr. Cross and I standing alone in front of the hotel.
“Let’s go.” He grasped my hand and confidently led the path.
I swallowed nervously as I tried my best to mimic his confident and elegant demeanor. I have stayed at budget-friendly motels during trips with my mother, but this was a whole new ball game for me.
The doorman greeted us with a warm smile and opened the door. As soon as we stepped inside, I was hit by the most breathtaking sight. The lobby was like a palace, with high ceilings, chandeliers, and marble floors. People dressed in designer clothes were mingling around. Talking. Sipping martinis and other cocktails. And there I was, in my old hoodie and washed-out jeans, feeling completely out of place. Before I could even process everything, Mr. Cross was already heading towards the reception desk, where a well-dressed woman greeted him with a smile. I tried to keep up with him, but I could not help but stare at the fancy decor and the posh guests. As we made our way to the elevator, I wondered about Mr. Cross's character. How could he afford such a lavish stay on a mere teacher’s salary? The suite alone would probably cost more than what I would work in fifty lifetimes.
Once we reached the Penthouse, I was in awe, yet again. The living room was huge, with plush sofas, a grand piano, and a balcony overlooking the city. I dare not lie. I walked around like a kid in a candy store, inspecting every little detail. I was so embarrassed. I even went to the bedrooms. They were equally magnificent. As I ventured onto the balcony, I was captivated by the view. In the distance, I could hear the muffled voice of Mr. Cross on his phone, but I could not quite decipher the conversation. Whatever time loop I stepped into; I did not want to leave. I was perfectly content living in this luxurious bubble. Even if it was just for one night.
"Miss Evans?" Mr. Cross's voice interrupted my train of thought.
I turned and faced him, and damn. He looked even more amazing under this bright light. His features were highlighted, and I could not help but catch my breath and bite my lip. He was just too freaking good-looking.
“Yes, sir,” I answered. I could not hide the tremble in my voice.
Mr. Cross arched an eyebrow in response to my reaction. He maintained a smile and proceeded to say. "I can tell you are appreciating the scenery. It truly is magnificent, don't you think?" he remarked with a playful tone.
I nodded in complete agreement. My voice filled with awe and wonder. "It's truly magnificent. I have never seen anything quite like it.”
I exhaled deeply, turning back to the breathtaking view while attempting to steady my pounding heart.
"Miss Evan, would like to take a shower?"
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