Episode 2: The Warning
322 Words
Over the next few days, Andrea found herself thinking about Elijah more than she cared to admit. His appearance at the gala had been brief, but his presence lingered in her mind like an unfinished melody.
Then, to her surprise, an invitation arrived—a small, hand-delivered note with elegant script. Join me for dinner? was all it said, signed simply with Elijah. Against her better judgment, Andrea accepted.
The restaurant he chose was exclusive, tucked away from prying eyes. When she arrived, Elijah was already there, seated in a quiet corner that offered both intimacy and privacy.
"Andrea," he greeted, standing to pull out her chair. His touch, brief against her back, sent an unexpected spark through her.
"You're full of surprises," she murmured, settling in.
"You have no idea."
Their conversation flowed easily—too easily. Andrea found herself captivated by Elijah’s wit and intelligence. He was unlike anyone she’d met in their world of wealth and pretense. But there was something else, too—a darkness that lurked beneath his charm, like a secret he was hiding.
As dessert arrived, Elijah’s playful demeanor shifted. He leaned closer, his gaze sharpening. "Andrea, there’s something you need to know. Being close to me isn’t… safe."
She tilted her head, puzzled. "What do you mean?"
He hesitated, as if weighing how much to reveal. "If you stay around me, things might get complicated. You could get hurt."
Andrea studied him, heart fluttering with both curiosity and caution. "Are you trying to warn me off?"
"I’m trying to protect you." His voice was soft, but there was a fierce sincerity in his eyes that made her chest tighten.
Andrea smiled, feeling bold. "Maybe I don't need protecting."
Elijah's jaw tightened, and for the briefest second, his pupils seemed to shift—just a flicker, but enough to leave Andrea breathless.
"You have no idea what you’re getting into," he whispered, almost to himself
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