chapter 12 : A STOLEN MOMENT

The days that followed their kiss were a delicate dance of stolen glances and unspoken words. At the library, their professional facade remained intact, but the air between them crackled with a forbidden energy. Every shared glance, every accidental brush of hands, sent shivers down Elara's spine.

Elian, ever the gentleman, planned a small, clandestine date. He suggested a quiet bistro, known for its intimate atmosphere and delicious pastries. Elara, initially hesitant, found herself eagerly anticipating the evening.

She arrived early, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm against her ribs. She wore a simple black dress, the fabric flowing gracefully around her, and a delicate silver necklace that shimmered in the dim light of the bistro. Elian was already there, a single red rose waiting for her. He rose as she approached, his eyes widening in appreciation.

"You look… breathtaking," he murmured, his gaze sweeping over her, his own attire a casual elegance - dark trouser , a crisp white shirt, and a black blazer that accentuated his broad shoulders.

Elara, flustered, felt a blush creep up her neck. "Thank you," she replied, her voice barely a whisper.

The evening was a quiet affair, a delicate balance of intimacy and apprehension. They sipped wine, savored delicate pastries, and lost themselves in easy conversation, discussing their shared passions, their childhood dreams, their fears and hopes. Elara was a captivating storyteller, her voice warm and engaging as she recounted tales of her travels, her childhood adventures, and her dreams for the future. Elian , in turn, found herself opening up to her in ways he hadn't anticipated, sharing stories and vulnerabilities he had kept hidden for years.

Throughout the evening, they were both acutely aware of their surroundings, constantly scanning the room for any sign of unwanted attention. The danger that lurked around every corner cast a long shadow over their stolen moments, adding a thrilling edge to their intimacy.

As the evening drew to a close, they walked along the river, the city lights reflecting on the water. Elian took her hand, his fingers intertwining with hers. The simple gesture sent a jolt of electricity through her.

"We should do this again," he said softly, his gaze fixed on her.

Elara smiled, her heart swelling with a warmth she hadn't felt in years. "I'd like that very much."

They shared a lingering kiss under the watchful gaze of the moon. Elian tasted the sweetness of her breath, a hint of vanilla and something subtly floral. He felt the warmth of her body pressed against his, the gentle curve of her hips beneath his hands. His fingers traced the delicate line of her jaw, his thumb gently stroking her cheek.

Elara lost herself in the kiss, her hands reaching up to tangle in his hair, pulling him closer. It was a slow, deliberate dance, a hesitant exploration of their newfound intimacy. They broke apart, breathless and dazed, their eyes locked, a lingering warmth spreading through them.

As they parted ways, a sense of contentment settled over Elara. But as she walked away, a chilling thought struck her. Two girls, giggling amongst themselves, were observing them from across the street, their phones held aloft.

The next morning, Elara's phone buzzed incessantly. It was a flurry of texts and calls from her friends, all expressing varying degrees of shock and disbelief. Confused, Elara finally opened the message from her best friend, addliyn : "OMG, have you seen this?! Elian Vance? Kissing some mystery girl? The whole college is buzzing!"

Elara's heart plummeted. Panic surged through her. She quickly opened the social media app, her worst fears confirmed. A grainy photo of Elian and her, kissing under the moonlight, was plastered across her feed, accompanied by the caption: "Who is this lucky lady? Mr. Elian Vance spotted getting cozy with an unknown beauty!"

The comments were already flooding in, a mixture of shock, disbelief, and thinly veiled jealousy. Elara felt a wave of nausea wash over her. Their secret was out...

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