Chapter 2 The Morning After

The golden rays of dawn spilled into the luxurious penthouse, illuminating the mess of scattered clothes and empty wine glasses. Ella stirred awake, the soft silk sheets brushing against her skin. For a moment, she forgot where she was, but the memories of the night before came rushing back-the intensity of Alexandro's gaze, his touch, and the magnetic pull she couldn't resist.

Ella sat up, clutching the sheet to her chest. The grandeur of the room was overwhelming: floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek modern furniture, and a view of the city that seemed endless. She blinked, trying to process how she ended up here.

"Good morning."

The deep voice startled her, and she turned to see Alexandro standing at the doorway, a tray in his hands. Dressed in casual slacks and a crisp white shirt with the top buttons undone, he looked impossibly handsome.

"I hope you like coffee," he said, setting the tray on the bedside table.

Ella's cheeks flushed. "I... I should probably go."

Alexandro raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "No need to rush. Stay. Have breakfast."

"I don't usually do things like this," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

He smirked, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Neither do I."

Despite her initial hesitation, Ella found herself relaxing. Over breakfast, they talked about everything-her aspirations to become a designer, his rise in the business world, and their shared love for classical music. She felt a strange connection with him, as if he saw her in a way no one else did.

But reality hit her when she checked her phone. Missed calls and messages from her best friend reminded her of the life she had to return to.

"I really need to leave," she said, standing up.

Alexandro's expression darkened slightly, but he nodded. "If that's what you want."

Ella dressed quickly, avoiding his gaze. As she reached the door, Alexandro stopped her.

"Ella," he said, his tone softer. "This isn't over."

His words lingered in her mind as she walked away, her heart pounding. Little did she know, leaving that penthouse would only be the beginning of a whirlwind she couldn't escape.