Do you believe in love at first sight?

Chapter :7.1

“Here, have some tea. I brewed it this morning and chilled it in the mini-fridge, so it’s nice and cold,” Ethan said, handing Maxwell a cup. As he did so, he stole a quick glance at Maxwell's expression, hoping to see if he'd noticed his earlier awkwardness and fast-beating heart.

Luckily, Maxwell seemed completely normal. He probably hadn’t realized how nervous Ethan had been around him just moments ago.

“Thank you,” Maxwell replied, taking a sip. Even the tea tasted incredible—sweet and refreshing.

Maxwell clicked on the mouse. “These are some photos from my work in Milan, taken on Via Montenapoleone, one of the most luxurious shopping streets in the city. It’s home to some of the world’s top fashion brands.”

Ethan's eyes were glued to the screen. Maxwell’s poses were incredibly elegant in each shot. The clothes accentuated his physique perfectly, and his deep gaze carried a certain mysterious allure, almost as if it hinted at hidden strength or wisdom. It's simply a masterpiece of God.

“You look amazing. So graceful,” Ethan said, turning his gaze toward Maxwell.

Maxwell chuckled softly. “Thank you. This one was taken at Castello Sforzesco…”

“The scenery is beautiful too. I’d love to see it in person someday if I get the chance,” Ethan said, quietly making a mental note to visit all the places Maxwell had been.

“Sure! I’ve visited many places, like Capri Island in southwestern Italy. The island’s most famous attraction is the Blue Grotto, but you can only enter when the sea is calm. It’s stunning—like a sapphire, a deep, clear blue, just like the Mediterranean beneath your boat. Actually, it reminds me a lot of the color of your eyes. Next time, I can take you there,” Maxwell said, grabbing a sheet of paper and sketching out a map, marking the locations for Ethan.

"Really?" Ethan's eyes lit up with excitement.

"Really, I never lie," Maxwell replied, his tone steady.

Overjoyed, Ethan gave him a spontaneous hug, his radiant blue eyes locked onto Maxwell’s. The idea of traveling with Maxwell, something Ethan thought would only happen in his dreams, now seemed within reach.

Maxwell, thoroughly enjoying the warmth of Ethan's embrace, grinned like a mischievous fox. As Ethan’s focus returned to the computer screen, Maxwell took the opportunity to tighten his arms around him, making sure Ethan couldn’t pull away easily.

It's weird! It's really weird. Why is Ethan more comfortable to hold than a woman's soft body and scented body? but there is no meat at all.

Completely oblivious to the arm wrapped firmly around his waist, Ethan was happily asking questions, lost in the moment.

"It’s amazing to have so many beautiful memories," Ethan said, his voice filled with admiration.

"And soon, you'll have your own too, right?" Maxwell replied with a knowing smile.

Ethan smiled softly in return, then prompted Maxwell to switch the picture on the screen to the next one.

The two of them continued to look through the photos while nibbling on small cakes. By the afternoon, Ethan had quickly whipped up a salad for two, along with some bread, making sure they both had a satisfying meal to fill their stomachs.