Chapter 8

eight

. . .

Hillary’s fingers danced across the keyboard, her eyes locked on the glowing screen as she poured her heart into the article. After four days surrounded by glitz and glam—and texts from Julius—back at the Muse office seemed like another life.

Thankfully, words flowed from her like a river, each sentence carefully crafted to capture the essence of the story she’d needed to tell from the weekend. A tale of a fish out of water journalist learning what it means to attend New York Comic Con. It wasn’t what Olivia asked for, and she’d be luckily if she had her job after this, but it was the best angle she could think of that didn’t repeat the tweets from all weekend.

She paused for a moment, reading over the last paragraph, a satisfied smile tugging at the corners of her lips. It was her best work yet, and she knew it. All she needed was Olivia to agree.

No one ever wrote about Comic Con from the panelist and celebrity side. Now someone had.

With a deep breath, Hillary saved and closed the file. All that was left to do was move the cursor to hover over the send button, and push it to deliver her masterpiece to Olivia. She’d proofread it death, and just kept adding more each time she read it. No, she just needed to send it.

Her heart raced with anticipation, imagining both scenarios that could come from the piece. Just as she was about to click send, a shrill ring pierced the air, causing her to jump out of her seat for a split second.

“Sorry!” She muttered, wishing she could sink under her desk as it continued to ring.

Hillary reached for her phone, expecting to see Olivia’s name on the screen, but instead, she was greeted by a name that made her heart skip a beat.

Julius Theon – Real One.

Her mind raced with questions. Why was he calling her now, just as she was about to submit her article? Did he want to discuss their weekend together? Was he really calling in that coffee date? They’d had a whirlwind of text messages the last three days, but she hadn’t trusted herself to meet him again. Not while she had to impress Olivia.

With trembling hands, Hillary silenced the phone, but didn’t end the call. It kept ringing, and she stared at Julius’s name as it flashed insistently. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. “It’s just a phone call,” she whispered to herself. “You can handle this, you kissed the man for crying out loud.”

Summoning her courage, Hillary swiped to answer the call, lifting the phone to her ear. “Hello?” she said, her voice sounding far more confident than she felt.

“Hillary, hi! I hope I’m not catching you at a bad time.” Julius’s warm tone filled her ear, instantly putting her at ease.

“No, no, it’s fine. I was just finishing up an article,” Hillary replied, glancing at her computer screen. “What’s up?” She wanted to puke, talking so casually to someone like him.

“I need you to come outside right now. It’s important, it could probably affect your article.” Julius’s tone was urgent, sending a jolt of adrenaline through Hillary’s body.

She hesitated for a moment, her mind racing with possibilities. What the hell did he want to take back after going on record? Was he about to tell her she couldn’t use any of the moments with him? You’re not going to know if you don’t go downstairs.

“I’ll be right there,” Hillary said, already pushing back from her desk as she ended the call and slipped her phone in her purse before grabbing it. Her stomach moved from anxious flutters to anxious fear. If he pulled their interview, she’d lose half her angle.

Her heart pounded in her chest, the rapid thudding somehow echoing in her ears as she hurried through the bustling office. She barely noticed the curious glances from her colleagues, too focused on her own urgent mission. The hum of people typing and phones ringing filled the air, creating a sense of controlled chaos. As she wove through the maze of cubicles and desks, she could feel their curious eyes following her every move. They were undoubtedly wondering what could have caused the always composed Hillary to rush out so abruptly when she rarely left the office once entered. A sudden burst of adrenaline propelled her forward, driving her toward the answers she desperately sought.

“I’ll be back soon,” she called over her shoulder, not waiting for a response. She’d figure out something to tell Olivia later. Right now, all that mattered was getting to Julius and trying to save her article.

Stepping onto elevator, Hillary’s mind churned with possibilities. Julius voice held so much urgency, was laced with an intensity that made her nervous for more than her article. Was he in danger for talking about that new film? Had something happened to him?

She shook her head, trying to push away the worst-case scenarios that danced through her mind. Julius was a resourceful man, surely he could handle whatever situation he found himself in if she used his content. But still, the worry gnawed at her, refusing to be silenced as the elevator rode down.

The elevator doors slid open, and Hillary stepped out into the lobby, her eyes immediately scanning for any sign of Julius. Her heart pounded in her chest as she pushed through the revolving doors and out onto the noisy sidewalk.

“Julius?” she called out, her voice barely audible over the din of traffic and pedestrians. She scanned the sidewalk, searching for his familiar face among the sea of strangers.

And then she saw him, leaning against a sleek black limo parked at the curb. A single red rose in his hand. Then he looked up, a smile curving over his lips that seemed to light up his blue eyes when they met hers.

Her breath hitched in her throat. There he was, the epitome of a Hollywood heartthrob with his tailored suit and effortlessly tousled hair, walking toward her like some scene out of a movie. But it was the piercing intensity in his gaze that truly captivated her, causing a shiver to run down her spine. His stare felt like a laser, locking onto her and refusing to let go. She couldn’t help but be drawn in by his commanding presence and magnetic aura.

She took a step forward, her heart racing a thousand times faster than it had upstairs. Whatever Julius had planned, she it was the start of a very different experience than she was used to.

As Hillary approached, Julius pushed himself off the limo, his lips curved into an even wider smile that seemed to chase away the shadows of her worry. He extended the rose toward her, his voice low, but filled with excitement.

“Hillary, I’m glad you could pull away.” His fingers brushed against hers as she accepted the delicate flower, the touch sending a jolt of electricity through her skin. “I hope I didn’t cause too much trouble, pulling you away from work like this.”

She shook her head, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth despite the lingering concern. “No, it’s fine. I was just worried that something might be wrong with the content for my story.” Nothing about this still seemed that way, but she had to check.

Julius chuckled softly, the sound rich and inviting. “Nothing’s wrong, quite the opposite, in fact.” He gestured toward the limo with a flourish. “We spent a good deal of time texting over the weekend, but you were too elusive to secure more face time. So, I thought it best I create a surprise to make certain you understand my intentions are absolutely set in spending time with you if you’re interested in that.”

Hillary’s eyes widened, her curiosity piqued. “A surprise? What kind of surprise?”

“The kind that requires a little adventure and an open mind.” His smile turned mischievous, his blue eyes sparkling with barely contained excitement. “Do you want to go with me?”

She hesitated for a moment, her gaze flickering between the rose in her hand, the man standing before her and back to the office building that held her entire life. Julius seemed to be a mystery, a puzzle she couldn’t quite solve, but there was something about him that drew her in, made her want to unravel his secrets.

And then there was work. Unless a story came from this, Olivia wouldn’t be thrilled that she rushed out before submitting the story. Could she pull off submitting it from her phone if she went with him?

Do it after. You’re a week early for print deadline.

“Yes,” she breathed, the word escaping her lips before she could second-guess herself. “I want to go with you.”

Julius’s smile widened, and he reached out to take her hand in his, the warmth of his touch sending a shiver down her spine. “Then let’s go.”

A warmth enveloped her whole being. It wasn’t a cold October day, but somehow she was even warmer from the simple brush of their hands. As he opened the door for her, Hillary couldn’t help but wonder what trouble she was about to get herself into.

Sliding in, she was forced to let go of his hand to trade the street for the over-the-top limo.

The interior of the car was impeccable, every surface shining and unblemished. The windows were tinted so dark it was impossible to see out, creating a cocoon of privacy. She sank into the plush black leather seats, feeling like a celebrity being whisked away to a glamorous event. The subtle scent of leather polish mingled with the faint aroma of expensive cologne, enveloping her in luxury. It was a far cry from the beat-up car she had driven every day before moving into the city, and for a split second, she allowed herself to feel like royalty.

Julius appeared beside her, tugging the door shut a moment later. “Liking it?”

She wasn’t certain if she blushed or not, but she hoped she hadn’t. “It’s very nice.”

As the limo pulled away from the curb, Hillary settled into the plush leather seat, her nerves buzzing with anticipation. She glanced over at Julius, who seemed entirely at ease, a contented smile playing on his lips.

“So, are you going to tell me where we’re going?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady despite the butterflies in her stomach.

Julius chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Now, where would be the fun in that? It’s called a surprise for a reason, Hillary.”

She rolled her eyes playfully, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “You know I’m a journalist, right? Uncovering secrets is kind of my thing.” He had a way of making her smile that wasn’t used to.

“Well, consider this one secret you’ll have to wait to uncover.” His gaze met hers, and for a moment, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in the intimate confines of the limo.

He had that way about him that she worried it would happen every time he looked at her.

That time she knew a blush creeped up her cheeks, and she quickly looked away, focusing instead on the rose she held in her hands. The delicate petals brushed softly against her skin, a tangible reminder of the romantic gesture that had caught her so off guard.

She couldn’t help but wonder what had prompted Julius to do this, to surprise her with a limo ride and a promise of adventure. They had a connection, a spark that seemed to ignite, but she had never imagined it would lead to something like this.

As if sensing her thoughts, Julius reached over and gently took her hand in his, his thumb brushing over her knuckles in a soothing motion. “Hey, relax. I promise, you’re going to enjoy what I have planned and I’m not some crazy kidnapper.”

Hillary took a deep breath, letting his words wash over her. She trusted him, even if the rational part of her brain was screaming at her to be cautious. But there was something about Julius, something that made her want to take a leap of faith, to see where this unexpected journey might lead.

“Okay,” she said softly, meeting his gaze once more. “I’m ready for whatever adventure you have in store.”

Julius’s smile widened, and he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “That’s my girl.”

Any other time she would’ve melted into a puddle at his feet at the words, but she somehow kept it together, knowing that this wasn’t the situation to act like her usual nervous self.

As the limo continued to navigate the city streets, Hillary allowed herself to relax, to let go of her doubts and fears and simply enjoy the moment. She didn’t know what lay ahead, but with Julius by her side, she was ready to face whatever challenges or surprises the day might bring.

The limo glided effortlessly through the busy city streets, the world outside reduced to a blur of darkened colors and shapes despite barely moving fast. Hillary found herself lost in thought, her mind racing with possibilities of what Julius had planned. She glanced over at him, admiring the way the soft light inside the limo played across his chiseled features.

Julius caught her gaze and smiled. “Penny for your thoughts?”

Hillary felt a blush creep into her cheeks. “I’m just wondering where we’re going,” she admitted.

“And ruin the surprise?” Julius teased, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief. “Where’s the fun in that?”

She couldn’t help but laugh, his playful demeanor continuing to put her at ease. “I think we’ve already had this discussion, so I’ll just keep to my thoughts.”

“That’s the spirit,” he said, leaning back against the plush leather seat. “But I will give you one hint. It’s a place that holds a special meaning for me, somewhere I’ve always wanted to share with someone special.”

Hillary’s heart skipped a beat. Someone special. Did he really mean her? She had always felt a connection with Julius, but she had never dared to hope that he might feel the same way.

As if reading her thoughts, Julius reached out and tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, his fingers lingering on her cheek. “You’re overthinking,” he murmured. “Just relax and enjoy the ride.”

She nodded, leaning into his touch. Outside, the city gave way to lush greenery as the limo turned onto a winding road, the trees forming a canopy overhead. Hillary felt a sense of excitement building within her, a tingling anticipation for whatever lay ahead.

Julius’s hand found hers, his fingers intertwining with hers as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Hillary knew that no matter where they were going, as long as she was with him, everything would be perfect. It was just the way his touch made her feel—safe, wanted.

The limo slowed to a stop after just over an hour, and Hillary looked out the window, her eyes widening in surprise. Before her was a sight straight out of a fairy tale. A sprawling estate with grounds so meticulously manicured it seemed like a painting come to life. Every shade of the rainbow was represented in the blooming flowers that filled the landscape, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. And at the heart of it all loomed a house large enough to be considered a mansion, its white pillars standing tall and proud against the bright blue sky.

She hadn’t even realized they’d left the city, she’d been so distracted in trying to be calm around Julius.

“Where are we?” she breathed, turning to Julius with a questioning look.

He smiled, a hint of nervousness in his eyes. “This is my family’s estate. I grew up here, played in these gardens, and dreamed of sharing it with someone who would appreciate its beauty as much as I do when I was older. I’m not exactly a rags-to-riches actor.”

Hillary’s heart swelled at his words, the realization of just how much he trusted her sinking in. “Julius, I can’t believe you brought me here.” She wasn’t certain what constituted a normal fate with a celebrity, but this felt very intimate…minus the giant mansion.

“What better way to get the small talk of getting to know someone out of the way than seeing where they grew up,” he said softly, his thumb tracing circles on the back of her hand. “Come on, there’s something I want to show you.”

He helped her out of the limo, his hand resting gently on the small of her back as he guided her toward a winding path leading into the gardens. Hillary couldn’t help but marvel at the riot of colors that surrounded them, the scent of roses and jasmine filling the air. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d seen a garden so vibrant outside the spring botanical gardens exhibit.

As they walked, Julius pointed at a large sprawling tree whose branches stretched over the roofline of the house. “This asshole,” he chuckled. “This asshole is responsible for not one, but two, broken bones. My arm when I was eight and my ankle when I was twelve. Clearly, I never learned not to fall.”

“No, it sounds like you didn’t.” Every fiber in her being itched with the need to ask him to embellish, but he dealt with reporters all the time, this wasn’t the time.

“That swing,” he pointed to a child’s play set easily two hundred yards away. “That swing set was where I had my first kiss.”

“No,” she teased, following him closer to it.

“Yes, very cliche. I was seven, I think. Katie Donnely. She punched me in the eye right after.”

“Oh,” she held back a laugh. “I suppose you learned no means no early on.”

“Aye, and to just ask if I can’t tell from the signals.”

With each story, Hillary found herself falling a little more under his spell, drawn in by the vulnerability he showed her.

Finally, they reached a secluded corner of the garden, a hidden alcove surrounded by towering hedges. In the center stood a stone bench, worn smooth by time and the elements, but still a vibrant gray.

“This was my favorite spot as a kid,” Julius said, leading her over to the bench. “Whenever things got too crazy, I’d come here to think, to dream. It always made me feel like anything was possible.”

He sat down, patting the space beside him in invitation. Hillary joined him, acutely aware of the way their thighs brushed together, the heat of his body seeping into hers.

“I can see why,” she murmured, her gaze tracing the delicate petals of a nearby rose. “It’s like a whole other world, hidden away from everything else.”

Julius nodded, his eyes never leaving her face. “That’s why I wanted to bring you here. To show you a part of myself that no one else gets to see.”

Hillary’s breath caught in her throat at the intensity of his gaze, the unspoken emotion that passed between them. Slowly, as if drawn by an invisible force, they leaned toward each other, their lips meeting in a soft, tentative kiss.

It was like nothing Hillary had ever experienced before—a rush of sensation that left her dizzy and breathless, clinging to Julius as if he were the only solid thing in a world that had suddenly tilted on its axis.

When they pulled apart, Julius rested his forehead against hers, his fingers tangling in her hair. “I’ve wanted to do that since the moment you came out of that office building,” he whispered, his voice rough with emotion. “Not counting the entire weekend, too.”

Hillary smiled, her heart soaring with joy and disbelief. “Me too,” she admitted, her own voice barely more than a sigh. “I just never thought...”

“That I could feel the same way?” he finished for her, his lips quirking up in a rueful smile. “Hillary, from the moment I met you, I knew there was something special about you. Something that drew me in like a moth to a flame.”

She ducked her head, feeling a blush rising in her cheeks. “I’m nothing special,” she mumbled, the old insecurities rearing their ugly heads.

But Julius wasn’t having it. He tipped her chin up with a gentle finger, forcing her to meet his gaze. “You are, it seems like I’ll just have to help you see that,” he said fiercely, his eyes blazing with conviction.

The warmth of his body and his scent of sandalwood and spice comforted her, even in the midst of overwhelming emotions. She couldn’t find the words to express how it meant that he was interested in her, so she simply nodded and nuzzled her face into his neck, breathing him in. In that moment, she knew she never wanted to let go.

“Think you’re up for more of a tour?”

She wasn’t certain why her heart dropped that he didn’t try to kiss her again, but she shouldn’t just wait for him to make the moves, not after proof. Though, she was curious what else he had planned.