Echoes-of-Affection

ROSES POV;

"You are not about to stab another bus passenger, right?"

Alice's voice cut through my thoughts like a needle popping a balloon. I blinked, snapping out of my daze to find her staring at me with an amused smirk, arms crossed as if she had been studying me for a while.

I scoffed, rolling my eyes. "First of all, that man deserved it. Second, I did not even do it."

"Which is still disappointing," she teased. "If you are going to fantasize about assault, at least commit one."

"You are such a bad influence, Alice," I muttered, shaking my head.

She just laughed, completely unbothered, while the bus jerked forward, causing me to grip the edge of my seat tight. I hated public transport. The mix of smells. stale cologne, sweat, and something suspiciously close to fried onions was nauseating. The crowd was just as bad. People pressed too close, some talking too loudly, others jostling without care. It was suffocating.

But thanks to Miami traffic, taking the bus was the only way to make it to the event on time. At least, that was Alice's argument when she convinced me to ditch the idea of an Uber. She had promised that this was the fastest and most cost-effective option. I was beginning to regret listening to her.

"You look like you are about to vomit," Alice observed, leaning in slightly.

"I am just thinking about how I will trip in these ridiculous heels and humiliate myself in front of a billionaire," I muttered, adjusting my grip on my bag.

Alice grinned, clearly finding my suffering entertaining. "That would be a fantastic first impression. Rich people love a tragic underdog story. Maybe you should fake a fall right into some CEO's arms. Cry a little and make it dramatic."

I shot her a glare before responding. "I refuse to be the damsel in distress for some corporate shark to rescue."

"Oh, come on. What if he is hot?" she teased. "Mysterious, brooding, with an insane amount of money to waste? You could be set for life."

"I would rather be set for life on my own terms, thanks but no thanks, Alice.."

Alice sighed, shaking her head as if I were a lost cause. "You are so stubborn."

"And yet, you keep me around." I countered.

"Only because you are entertaining," she said, nudging me. "Now, tell me again how much this night means to you before you chicken out."

I exhaled sharply. Tonight was a very big deal. My paintings were being showcased at the annual charity auction hosted at the Ocean View Hotel, a high-profile event attended by Miami's elite. Wealthy investors, art collectors, and business moguls would all be present, scouting for pieces to add to their collections. It was my chance to finally break out of the starving artist cycle, to have my work recognized and, hopefully, sold for an amount that did not scream desperate rent money.

"This is it, Alice," I admitted quietly. "This is my shot to prove I am worth something in the art world."

"Damn right, it is." Alice grinned, her confidence in me unwavering. "Now, stop looking like you are going to faint. You've got this."

The Ocean View Hotel was a sight straight out of a billionaire's dream. The chandeliers sparkled like captured stardust, the polished marble floors reflected the warm glow of golden lights, and the air carried the subtle scent of expensive cologne and champagne. I swallowed hard as we stepped inside, taking in the lavish setting.

"Okay, I am going to find a good seat," Alice said, her eyes already scanning the room for the best spot to spectate. "You? You are going to charm some rich people and avoid embarrassing yourself."

"That second part is highly unrealistic," I muttered under my breath.

She rolled her eyes before giving me a playful shove. "Go. Mingle. Sell yourself artistically, not literally. Unless you find a billionaire willing to pay off your student loans, then I fully support alternative methods."

"Goodbye, Alice," I said with irritation all over my face.

She winked before disappearing into the crowd, leaving me alone to face my fate. I took a deep breath, squared my shoulders, and made my way to the artist and sponsor section. The moment I stepped into the room, I felt the shift in atmosphere, the weight of expectation pressing down on me.

And that was when I noticed him.

Seated beside me was a man dressed in a sleek black suit, tailored so perfectly that it looked like it was made just for him. He carried an effortless air of power, his presence commanding yet relaxed. His wrist rested casually on his lap, drawing my eyes to the watch peeking from beneath his cuff.

A Richard Mille. Expensive. Ridiculously expensive.

"Nice watch," I said before I could stop myself. "What model?" I asked.

He turned his head slightly, his dark brown eyes meeting mine with mild curiosity. Then, the corner of his lips lifted in a smirk-a slow, knowing smirk that sent an odd shiver down my spine.

"RM 008 Tourbillon," he answered smoothly, his voice deep and rich. "I had trouble deciding which one to wear tonight, so I went with this."

I raised an eyebrow. "Wow, that must have been such a burden."

He let out a low chuckle, clearly amused by my sarcasm. I turned my attention back to the auction, waiting for my painting to be called. but I could feel his eyes on me. There was something about him, something magnetic. Something that made me feel like this night was about to change everything. I couldn't help but feel a magnetic pull towards this enigmatic man. His confidence was palpable, yet there was a subtle vulnerability in his eyes that intrigued me.

"You seem nervous," he observed, his voice gentle. "Is this your first auction?" he asked.

"Yeah, it is," I admitted with a shy smile. "I'm an artist, and tonight my paintings are up for auction. It's a bit overwhelming, to be honest.

" He raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "An artist? That's impressive. Which ones are yours?"

I pointed to a set of vibrant canvases displayed on the far wall. "Those are mine. They represent different emotions and experiences I've gone through."

He took a moment to study my work, and I could see a genuine appreciation in his eyes. "Your art is powerful. It speaks volumes."

"Thank you," I replied, feeling a warm blush spread across my cheeks. "It's my way of expressing what words can't capture."

As we continued talking, I learned that he had a deep appreciation for art and often attended auctions incognito to avoid the spotlight. There was something about his humility and genuine interest that made me feel comfortable opening up to him. Just then, the auctioneer called out my name, signaling that my artwork was next. My heart raced with anticipation as the bidding began. Alexander seated beside me, offering silent support. His presence was reassuring, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me.

Before I could say anything else, the auctioneer's voice boomed through the room. "Ladies and gentlemen, our next piece is 'Eclipse of the Heart' by the talented new artist Rose Bennett. Bidding starts at five thousand dollars."

My stomach twisted as I watched the first paddle go up. Then another.

"Five thousand! Do I hear six?" Another bid. "Six thousand! Seven?" The numbers kept climbing. Eight. Nine. Ten. I could barely register what was happening, my pulse hammering in my ears.

Then-

"Fifteen thousand! Going once, going twice-"

A paddle shot up beside me. "Twenty thousand," the man in the black suit announced, his voice calm and unwavering. A hush fell over the room. The other bidders hesitated. "Going once, going twice-sold! To the gentleman in the back!"

I turned sharply, staring at him in shock. He met my gaze, his expression unreadable, but that smirk was still there.

"Looks like 'Eclipse of the Heart' found its new home," he murmured.

I exhaled shakily as Alice materialized beside me, grabbing my shoulders. "Rose! Twenty freaking thousand dollars! Do you understand what just happened?!"

I shook my head, still dazed. "This, this is insane," I whispered.

The man beside me extended a hand. "Alexander Carter." He said

I hesitated before shaking it. "Rose Bennett."

His grip was firm, warm, and carried a quiet confidence that unnerved me in a way I could not explain.

Alice, still buzzing with excitement, barely registered him at first. But then, as if suddenly remembering her manners, she glanced at him and arched an eyebrow.

"Oh, right. Alice, this is Alexander. Alexander, Alice-my best friend and the reason I am here tonight."

Alexander gave a polite nod. "Nice to meet you, Alice."

"Yeah, yeah, same," Alice said absentmindedly, still too hyped over the bidding war to focus. She turned back to me with a wide grin. "I am going to find some champagne before I combust. You two-talk, celebrate, do whatever people do when their art gets sold for a small fortune."

Before I could respond, she was already disappearing into the crowd, leaving me alone with Alexander. His gaze remained steady on me, unreadable yet undeniably intrigued.

"I would love to see more of your work," he said. "Mind if I get your number?"

A rush of excitement swirled in my chest. "Yes... yes, I would like that."

As we exchanged numbers, I could not shake the feeling that this night was only the beginning.

Of what? I had no idea.

But something told me it was going to be big.

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.

"What was that for!? And who said you had any right to kiss me?" I asked, trying to sound firm, though my voice came out softer, with my shyness betraying my outrage.

"That was my way of saying thank you, for agreeing to have a drink and walk with me," he said with a confident smirk that only made things worse.

"Well, there are other ways to thank me. "You did not really have to kiss me," I shot back, trying to sound annoyed, but my tone didn't match the fire I wanted it to carry.

"Did you not like the kiss?" he asked, clearly enjoying the moment. "I could take it back if you want."

"Take it back, how?" I asked, genuinely curious, against my better judgment.

He leaned in again, closing the distance between us.

I instinctively stepped back, my heart hammering in my chest. "Hello, Hey Mr! "I didn't say you could do it again!" I protested, but the warmth spreading across my face gave me away.

His smirk deepened. "Then why did you not move away sooner?"

I opened my mouth to argue, but no words came out. I wanted to say something, anything, but the truth was... I did not really hate it.

"I just wasn't expecting it," I muttered, trying to pull myself together as he reached out to grab both our cups, and he placed them gently on the pavement next to us.

He chuckled softly. "Fair enough. But if you really didn't like it, you wouldn't still be standing so close to me."

God, I hated that he was right. His presence was magnetic, pulling me in even as my mind screamed for space. And that cologne. It was heavenly and dangerous all at once.

"I-" The words got stuck in my throat again as he leaned in, slower this time, almost giving me the chance to stop him. But I didn't.

His hands gently slid around my waist, firm but unhurried, drawing me in, closer to him. This time, he didn't go straight for my lips. He dipped his head, pressing a slow, lingering kiss against the curve of my neck. A shiver ran through me. I couldn't even move.

Then, his lips brushed mine, softer this time, tentative, like he was testing the waters.

My breath caught. I should have stopped this. I should have at least pushed him away. But instead, I closed my eyes and let myself melt into the kiss.

His hands moved lower with his fingers tracing the curve of my hips before gripping my butt. His touch was so bold, lifting the hem of my gown just slightly. Heat flared inside me. The kiss deepened, lasting longer than I intended, longer than it should have. Over two minutes of wandering hands and desperate lips, making me forget where we were, who we were supposed to be.

Then reality slapped me like a cold wave. I pulled back, my breath ragged, my hand planted firmly on his chest. "We should stop this," I said, my voice steadier than I felt. "I am not that easy."

He stared at me, his smirk fading into something I couldn't quite read. "I never said you were," he replied quietly, his hands still lingering near my waist like he wasn't ready to let go.

I exhaled and took a step back, grabbing my wine as it could anchor me. "I won't take offense, but... whatever this was, it ends right here."

Before he could respond, I turned and walked away, leaving him standing alone in the garden.

The cool night air did nothing to ease the burn on my skin as I re-entered the house. My heart was racing, my thoughts in a full-blown tornado. I sat down, composed myself, waiting so we could wrap up the meeting I had come for.

A minute later, he came in and took his seat across from me.

"I guess we are done for today," I said with my eyes glued to my jotter, refusing to meet his gaze.

"Yes, we are Rose," he replied with his tone oddly calm. "I will call you later tonight to go over everything. I know you might not want to process what just happened right now, so maybe... later, when you are in your space, it would be easier."

His voice was low, sincere, and even tender.

"You jerk," I muttered, not quite under my breath. I glanced up at him for a brief second, then grabbed my bag.

"Thanks for the drink," I said, cool and composed. "I'll get started on the painting soon, so calling might only distract me."

I didn't wait for a reply. I turned, walked out, and called an Uber because I needed space.

Back home, the moment I stepped inside, Alice was already giving me that look from the couch. "What happened, girl? "You look like you have just seen a ghost or kissed one," she said, eyeing me with playful suspicion.

I hesitated. I knew how she would react. "Nothing," I muttered, dropping my bag by the door.

Alice raised an eyebrow. "You better spill before I lose my patience."

I sighed, rubbing my lips. "Fine, fine. Alexander kissed me."

Her eyes widened. For a moment, she was unreadable. Then her lips curled into a smirk. "Oh? And let me guess... you hated it?"

I collapsed onto the couch and hugged a pillow. "I don't know. It was... unexpected."

She tilted her head. "Unexpected? Or exactly what you wanted?"

"Alice, stop."

She rolled her eyes. "Come on, Rose. The guy is a billionaire. Handsome. Clearly into you. And you Miss 'I don't need distractions' are blushing like a teenager."

I groaned, burying my face in the pillow. "It is not that simple Alice."

"It is that simple," she shot back. But her tone... shifted. Just slightly.

I looked up, frowning. "You are acting weird."

Alice shrugged. "I just think you should be careful. Guys like Alexander don't do things without a reason."

I sighed, my heart sinking a little. "I know."

But the truth was, I wasn't sure I believed that. Because the way he kissed me... the way he looked at me...

It felt real.

And that terrified me.