Chapter 4

MACI

His voice draws me in, and I can't help but reach out and touch him. It's as though a powerful force is pulling us toward one another. When I touch his hand, I'm momentarily surprised by a jolt of electricity that passes between us. I catch Luca looking at me, and I know he feels something too.

The soft glow of candlelight flickers in the room, casting a warm and intimate ambiance. As we sit in the corner, our bodies pressed close together, there's an undeniable attraction between us. His fingertips gently trace the contours of my arm, sending shivers down my spine. I reciprocate, running my hand through his hair, feeling the soft strands between my fingers. Our eyes lock, and we can't help but smile, knowing that we've found something special in each other. Time seems to stand still in our little bubble as we revel in the intoxicating connection that draws us closer with every touch.

The problem is, I gave him a fake name. I don't know why I did it. It just came out. It's just a one-night stand, so it doesn't matter, but I've never lied about something so dumb before. When our eyes met, I never imagined experiencing this kind of bond with a stranger. Now I can't just fess up and tell him Sophia isn't my name. He would think that I was insane or a liar. I can't risk him walking away.

It's just for fun, anyway; he'll never know my real name or the little white lie I told about myself. We can have our night together, exploring each other's bodies, enjoying each other's company, and indulging in a fleeting connection. When the morning light filters in, I'll have to face the truth that I must leave him behind. Our time together will be brief, meant only for this moment. It's a secret adventure, a temporary escape from our everyday lives, and a chance to experience the thrill of the unknown. This isn't something I've ever done before, but I'm going to venture out of my comfort zone and spend the night with the man who has mesmerized me.

He exudes confidence and charm, drawing me in with his magnetic presence. As we engage in conversation, his words ignite a fire within me, stirring desires I've long suppressed. The anticipation builds, fueled by the knowledge that this encounter will likely surpass all my previous experiences. It's a thrilling prospect, the thought of exploring uncharted territory with a stranger who promises to awaken dormant passions within me. I embrace the freedom to let go of my inhibitions, ready to laugh, to explore, and to indulge in this potentially unforgettable encounter.

I should be working, but I'm too enamored with this man. My lack of attention to the event doesn't bother Misty. All of my work was mostly pre-event. I baked all the pastries, cakes, cookies, and other sweets, decorating them and arranging them beautifully before everyone arrived. They have other people serving the food. Most of my work is already done, but I'm supposed to be helping Misty. That said, she's always telling me I need to go out on a date, have fun, and has even tried to fix me up on blind dates.

Knowing she'll be ecstatic that I've met someone, I walk over and let my friend know that I'm with Luca and make sure she's okay with me leaving.

With a huge smile on her face, Misty presses me for information. "Who's the hot guy? Does he have a twin brother who happens to be single?"

I giggle at her because it's exactly what I expected her to say. Feeling excited and giddy with anticipation, I answer her, "His name is Luca, and he's amazing. Do you mind if I leave with him for the night?"

"Girl, if you don't, I'll smack your ass myself. Get out of here and have a good time," she adds.

Promising to come back and help her close and clean up after the Gala, she tells me if I let this guy walk away, she's never going to let me live it down. Giving my friend a quick hug, I confidently walk back to the handsome man who is waiting for me with a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye.

I can't believe my luck, and now I just have to remember my name is Sophia. Not Maci. I can't slip up and let Luca know I lied, or it will ruin this entire night.