Chapter 2 ONE NIGHT STAND WITH A STRANGER

As they sipped their drinks at the bar, both were occupied with thoughts of their own. Unexpectedly, Ethan brought up a topic about art. It was rare to see him talk to strangers, especially females. Ethan and the females are enemies.

"I've always been fascinated by the way a single piece of art can evoke so many different emotions," he said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Emotions? Says a man who always lacks emotions. Ethan is difficult to read through. He is like a piece of wood just like art, the difference is just that, art is capable of making one feel emotions.

Mackenzie's eyes lit up, unaware of the man's expression. She couldn't see his face by the way. "I know exactly what you mean!" she exclaimed, "I've always loved how art can transport you to another world." It was clear from her expression and tone that she was interested in this.

If anyone who knew who Ethan was, was around here, the person would be left dumbstruck. Ethan had been interested in business all his life. All the people in his life find him boring, but they can't leave and abandon him because they are his family. The only person he accommodates is his friends and family, most especially his secretary. It was like they shared an everlasting bond.

They both launched into a passionate discussion about their favorite artist, styles, and pieces of art. Most 9f the time, it was Mackenzie doing the talking. Mackenzie kept talking regardless that she didn't know the man. She felt relieved because she had someone she could talk to about her favorite things. She didn't feel unwanted.

As they talked they became more and more engrossed in the conversation, their faces inches apart. Which was rare. What was wrong with Ethan? Was he drunk? But he only had a few glasses. And Mackenzie? This was unlike her.

As they chatted, Mackenzie couldn't be helped but notice the way Ethan's eyes crinkled at the corners when he looked at her. She felt a flutter in her chest and quickened her pace. She was curious as she hadn't seen him smile at all during the whole talk. Ethan often makes her smile with his words, but he doesn't smile. Mackenzie couldn't read his expression as she gave up.

Ethan, too, was captivated by Mackenzie's infectious laughter and her bright, sparkling eyes. He found himself wanting to know more about her. Really? Despite that, they can't see each other well. They have this kind of feeling at first glance.

As the night wore in, they both became more and more tipsy. Mackenzie was laughing and joking, and their inhibitions slowly disappeared.

Mackenzie felt a spark of attraction and leaned in, her face inches from Ethan's. Their lips met in a soft, gentle kiss.

Mackenzie felt the soft lips on hers, it felt like it hadn't been kissed in a long time. She suddenly felt a jolt and realized that she was wrong to do that. She pulled back but just at the right moment, Ethan pulled her towards him, and their faces hit against each other. He brought her lips close to his and savored her lips. Mackenzie responded eagerly, and as if Ethan sensed her excitement, he roamed his hands around her body.

As they kissed, Mackenzie felt a rush of excitement. She had never felt this way before. Maybe because she was just experiencing this, she wanted to experience something greater than this.

But as they pulled away to catch their breath, Mackenzie saw a look in Ethan's eyes that she couldn't quite read. Was it curiosity? Desire? Something else?

She didn't have time to wonder because Ethan pulled her back into his arms and they continued kissing.

But as they continued to kiss, Mackenzie started to feel a pang of uncertainty. What did Ethan really want from her? Was this just a one-night stand? But was she really willing to do this or was she going to act on impulse?

She pushed the thoughts aside and focused on the moment. She didn't want to ruin the magic of the night.

As they continued to kiss and explore each other's bodies, Mackenzie felt a sense of excitement. She had never felt this way before.

"Hey, let's get out of here," Ethan said, his voice low and husky.

"Where do you want to go?" Mackenzie asked, her heart racing with excitement.

"My hotel room," Ethan replied, his eyes locked on hers.

Mackenzie nodded, her heart racing with anticipation. She knew that she was taking a risk, but she couldn't help herself. She wanted to be with Ethan, to feel his touch and his kiss. She wasn't to have the feelings, it's just going to be a one-night thing, anyway. Mackenzie's parents were strict and seeing that she was the only girl, she was pampered but not spoiled. Am I going to spoil myself now?

She couldn't stop the thought from coming to her head.

As they left the bar and made their way to the hotel, Mackenzie felt a sense of excitement. She had never felt this way before.

But as they walked, she was uncertain about her decision. She knows how much that would clearly cost her.

Ethan has been to the hotel countless times and he is well-known because he does most of his time there. Even though he had his own house. The receptionist's eyes lingered on Mackenzie, which Mackenzie felt. But she didn't speak.

When they arrived at the hotel room, Mackenzie was struck by the beautiful view of the city skyline. The room was dimly lit, with soft music playing in the background.

Ethan took Mackenzie's hand and led her to the couch. They sat down together, their legs touching.

Ethan's desire was clear, but Mackenzie hesitated, unsure if she was ready. She didn't want him to feel like she was a hungry demon. It felt like Ethan could hear her thoughts as he proceeded to do exactly what Mackenzie wanted.

But just at the nick of time before he could proceed, Mackenzie stopped him.

"Hey, can I ask you something?" Mackenzie said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Of course," Ethan replied, his eyes locked on hers.

"What do you do for a living?" Mackenzie asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

Ethan smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm a lawyer," he said, his voice low and husky.

Mackenzie's eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't expected that. At least she knows something about him now and they could proceed.

Mackenzie felt a rush of emotions as she surrendered to the moment. But amidst the passion, she couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty. Mackenzie lay there, her mind racing with thoughts and emotions. She felt a mix of excitement and trepidation, unsure what the future held.