Chapter 2 The Space Between Us

We got home that evening and kept talking about what went down during the auction.

"Why did old men tend to get so attracted to me during the auction? "Do I look like an old man's chick?" Alice asked with a worried face that was clearly getting her worked up.

I laughed with every strength in me. "You might as well be an old man's chick, who knows?" I said, adding a smirk that would ignite a burning flame inside of her.

"You've got to be kidding me, you must be sick in the head," Alice said, smirking. "Now, are you finally going to tell me what happened between you and that guy who bought your painting? Alexander, right? He was seriously hot. You must've pulled a move I didn't teach you to get his attention."

I gave a small, blushing smile. "I don't even know, Alice. It just... happened. I asked what kind of watch he was wearing, and somehow we just started vibing. One thing led to another, and... yeah."

Girl, what watch was it?? Alice asked with her eyes beaming with curiosity as she grabbed my legs.

Girl, calm the fuck down, and get your dirty hands off me, why are your eyes beaming with so much curiosity? I said with a glazing scoff that I knew would piss her off.

She frowned and threw a pillow at me. I dodged it, still smirking.

I'm really tired and I need to take a nap. I'm gonna skip dinner and go to bed. "I might have forgotten the name, so maybe I'll remember by morning," I added, walking off before she could push more.

The next morning, I received a call from an unknown number. My heart skipped a beat as I answered, curiosity and excitement bubbling within me.

"Good morning, Rose," Alexander's voice came through. It was smooth and warm. "I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"Not at all," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "What's up?"

"I wanted to talk to you about something," he began. "I was so impressed with 'Eclipse of the Heart', and I think it would be perfect for a place in my home." But I was hoping you could help me with another painting, perhaps something that complements it."

A surge of excitement coursed through me. "Of course! I'd be happy to help. "Do you have any specific ideas in mind?"

"Not yet," he admitted. "I was thinking it might be best if we could meet at my home to discuss it further. "That way, you can see the space where the painting will be displayed and get a better sense of what I'm looking for. How does that sound?"

I hesitated for a moment, unsure about meeting at his home. It felt a bit too personal, but I also knew that seeing the space would help me create something truly special. "That sounds good, but are you sure it's okay to meet at your place?" I asked, trying to keep my tone casual.

"Absolutely," Alexander reassured me. "I want you to have a clear idea of the setting." It will help us both."

I took a deep breath and decided to trust him. "Alright, when would you like to meet?"

"How about this afternoon?" he suggested. "Say around 2 PM?"

"Two PM works for me," I confirmed. "Just send me the address, and I'll be there."

"Great," he said. "I'll text you the details shortly," as he hung up.

As he hung up the phone, I noticed Alice lounging on the couch, scrolling through her phone.

"Guess what?" I said, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves catching her attention. "Alexander just called and asked me to meet him at his place today at 2 PM. He wanted to discuss another painting."

Alice's eyes widened with curiosity. "Really? At his place? That's exciting, but are you okay with it?"

I nodded, still processing my own feelings. "Yeah, I'm a little skeptical, but it makes sense that he wants me to see the space where the painting will be displayed and, even though I could still handle myself, "I'm not a scared little chick like you," I said with a smirk just to piss her off. Pissing her off seemed to be my love language.

Alice rolled her eyes, crossing her arms playfully. "Oh, please. Just because you can handle yourself doesn't mean you shouldn't be cautious. But I get it, this is a huge opportunity for you."

I smiled, feeling the excitement bubbling up again. "Thanks, Alice. I'll be careful, I promise. Now, let me get ready for this meeting."

As the afternoon approached, I found myself getting more and more anxious. I chose a simple yet elegant sundress gown in a soft pastel color, perfect for the warm weather and appropriate for a professional yet casual meeting. The flowing fabric and delicate design made me feel both comfortable and confident.

With a deep breath, I grabbed my bag and headed out the door. I hailed an Uber to take me to Alexander's home, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity during the ride. When I arrived at his address, I was greeted by a grand estate that exuded elegance and sophistication. The gate opened smoothly, and the Uber driver continued up the long driveway, making me feel a bit like I had stepped into a movie scene.

As I got out of the Uber and approached the front door, Alexander greeted me with a warm smile. He was wearing a black T-shirt, knee-length gray shorts, and Prada slides. While he paid off the driver, he said, "Welcome, Rose. I'm so glad you could make it."

"Thank you," I replied, trying to keep my nerves in check. "Your home is beautiful."

"Come on in," he said, gesturing for me to follow. "Let me show you the space where I envision the new painting."

As we walked through the luxurious rooms, I couldn't help but admire the tasteful decor and the sense of tranquility that filled the air. Alexander led me to a spacious living area with large windows that offered a breathtaking view of the garden outside.

"This is where I think the new painting should go," he explained, while pointing to a wall that was bathed in natural light. "I loved 'Eclipse of the Heart' because it brought a sense of depth and emotion to the room." I would like something that complements it, perhaps something that captures the essence of serenity and hope."

I nodded, taking in the space and imagining the possibilities. "I see what you mean. I have a few ideas already, but I would love to hear more about what you're looking for. Any specific colors or themes in mind?"

Alexander smiled, his gaze lingering on me a bit longer than before. "Well, I trust your artistic vision, Rose. After all, you're the one who created 'Eclipse of the Heart.' I think you understand emotions on a deeper level."

I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks and tried to focus on the task at hand. "Thank you. I'll do my best to create something meaningful for this space."

We walked into the kitchen room and sat at the dining table. As we continued discussing ideas, Alexander's tone shifted slightly. "You know, I was really captivated by you at the auction. Not just your art, but you. There's something about you that's...different."

I looked up, a bit surprised by his words. "Different? In a good way, I hope?"

"Absolutely," he said, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that made my heart race. "You're genuine, passionate, and incredibly talented." It's refreshing."

I smiled, feeling a mix of flattery and uncertainty. "That's kind of you to say. I just try to be myself....."

"And that's what makes you stand out," Alexander continued, cutting me short with his voice softening. "In a world full of pretense, authenticity is rare."

I shifted slightly, smiling and looking back to my jotter, trying to steer the conversation back to the painting. "So, about the colors...do you have any preferences?"

He chuckled, sensing my attempt to refocus. "I trust your judgment, Rose. But if I had to choose, I would say something calming, perhaps shades of blue and green."

"Got it," I said, jotting down notes. "That should work well with the natural light here."

He got up and went down to the kitchen to grab a bottle of wine

"Do you care?" He asked, shoving the bottle to my face, "It's a rare Château Margaux 2005." he added.

The bottle gleamed under the soft kitchen lights, its deep green glass hinting at the rich, dark liquid inside. The label, adorned with intricate gold and cream details, spoke of a heritage vineyard known for producing some of the finest wines in the world.

I looked up at the bottle and gave a stern face trying to make my decision. I didn't see any harm in having a bottle of wine since we were only trying to dialogue. "Sure I could have some," I replied.

He brought in two glass cups and filled my cup to the brim. He poured half a glass into his own cup, I grabbed mine and took a sip.

"Refreshing, isn't it? I have been wanting to drink this bottle for a long time, but I didn't want to drink it alone. "I am happy sharing this bottle with you," he said with a low but thick voice smiling and looking deep into my eyes, which gave me chills.

"Would you walk with me?" He added.

He stretched out his hand as a gesture to help me get up from my sitting position waiting for me to accept his proposal to walk with him.

Feeling like a queen, I couldn't resist. I grabbed his hand and accepted, and as he drew me up, his hands were so soft for a man that I didn't want to let go.

We walked together along a beautifully manicured pathway lined with blooming flowers and tall hedges, the scent of roses and jasmine filling the air. Alexander pointed out various features of his estate, each more impressive than the last. There were elegant statues, a sparkling fountain, and a serene koi pond where colorful fish glided gracefully through the water.

"This garden is stunning," I remarked, marveling at the artistry and care that had gone into creating such a beautiful space.

"Thank you," he said with a smile. "It's one of my favorite places to unwind and find inspiration."

We continued our walk, holding our wine glasses in one hand and the other holding each other, we eventually reached a secluded corner of the garden where a charming gazebo stood. The structure was adorned with twinkling fairy lights, casting a soft, romantic glow.

"I wanted to show you this spot," Alexander said, his voice tinged with a hint of anticipation. "It's where I come to think and escape from the world for a while and I sincerely feel this place mirrors you in your pretty sundress right now"

"It's lovely," I replied, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. "I can see why you like it here," I added, looking about the garden while blushing uncontrollably, trying not to show it.

As we stood in the gazebo, the silence between us was comfortable, almost electric. Alexander turned to face me, his gaze intense and unwavering. He took a step closer, his hand gently leaving my hands. He reached up and used his fingers to gently tuck a few stray hairs behind my ear, clearing them from my eyes before placing his hand down to my waist. The touch was so tender and intimate that I could feel my insides running hot uncontrollably.

"Rose, there's something about you that I can't quite put into words. It's like you have this aura that draws people in."

I looked up with a shiver running down my spine, unsure of how to respond. "I don't know what to say."

He smiled, his touch lingering a moment longer with his free hand slowly moving upward from my waistline to my back while holding his glass cup.

"You don't have to say anything. Just know that I'm looking forward to seeing more of you, both professionally and personally."

He leaned in slowly, his lips brushing softly against mine. I could not resist, I would feel bad spilling a glass of wine served to me on his clothes was the lie I told myself.

Our tongues intertwined for about ten seconds, filled with a lot of passion and intensity. The kiss was tender and full of emotion. With our wine glasses still in hand, the world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of us in that magical moment.