I Knew I Loved You

Chapter Eight

~ Morning Sparks ~

The sky was tinged with hues of orange and pink as the sun began to rise. Morning had arrived, a time I seldom welcomed. As a former model, my body clock was a mess from late nights and irregular sleep patterns. But today was different. The thought of someone waiting for me sent my mind into overdrive.

Thorn had casually mentioned last night that he would pick me up today. I tried not to get my hopes up, but I couldn't stop thinking about him. Those deep, mysterious eyes made me wonder about the real Thorn. Where did he live? Who were his parents? Did he have any social media accounts? My mind was racing with questions, and I knew this growing curiosity wasn't a good sign.

As I sat at the breakfast table, hurriedly eating, the sound of a car horn broke the morning stillness. Could it be Thorn? My heart skipped a beat with excitement and nervousness. Definitely not good.

"Ma'am," Manang, one of the household helpers, appeared with a wide smile. "Someone is looking for you."

My chewing stopped as anticipation surged through me. "Who is it, Manang?" I asked, though deep down, I already knew.

"Sir Thorn," she replied, her words sending shivers down my spine.

Maintaining a composed facade, I suppressed my racing heart. I wanted to look my best, to exude an enticing aura, even though I had just showered and changed into fresh clothes.

"Please invite him in, Manang. I'll finish my meal before joining him," I said calmly, glancing at my wristwatch. He was earlier than expected. Was he as eager as I was?

Seated at the table, I straightened my posture and tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear as I saw Thorn approaching with a purposeful stride.

"I told them I'd wait outside," Thorn said, bypassing any greeting, which made me roll my eyes. As if he were my boyfriend, I thought.

"I instructed them to let you in," I responded, motioning for him to sit beside me.

Thorn's eyes briefly scanned the surroundings before settling back on me. There was a magnetism about him that both intrigued and unnerved me.

"Would you like some breakfast?" I offered, pulling a chair closer to mine.

He declined, his hands casually in his pockets.

"I prefer not having someone stand near me while I eat," I commented, preparing a plate for him.

Thorn nibbled his lower lip, lost in thought, before finally sitting. Swiftly, I filled his plate with bread, fried egg, and crispy bacon. Throughout, I felt his gaze on me, studying my every move.

"Are you alone in this big house?" he asked, eyes fixed on me.

"Not entirely. Manang and the other helpers are here. My parents are often out of town," I replied, taking a bite of bacon. "Rich and I share this house too," I added, mentioning my roommate.

Thorn raised an eyebrow. "Rich, the guy you're with?"

I smirked, enjoying teasing him. "Yes, the guy I'm with."

Thorn's lips formed a thin line. "Ah, I see."

He still hadn't touched his food, just toyed with his cutlery. The air was thick with anticipation.

"It's not poisoned, you know," I quipped, breaking the tension. "You should drop by for a proper lunch... or maybe dinner. Manang is an excellent cook," I invited, feeling bold.

Thorn leaned slightly closer. "Do you know how to cook?" he asked abruptly.

"Well, a little," I admitted, slightly taken aback. "I learned a few recipes from my mom. Our family owns food corporations."

"Impressive," he smiled, finally picking up his cutlery. He cut into the egg and placed it on the bread before taking a bite. I blinked, momentarily captivated by his lips.

"I’ll choose a house," he began, swallowing his food. "I'd like to see you cook at my chosen house," he suggested, causing me to cough and reach for my juice.

"Y-Your chosen house?" I stammered. What does he mean by that?

"Yes. I just want to see if you're as skilled as you claim," he grinned, eyes gleaming with playful challenge.

I opened my mouth in surprise. Did he think I was lying?

"Challenge accepted!" I declared, a spark of determination igniting within me.

His grin widened. "I wonder what kind of culinary delights a rich girl like you can create."

"Don't underestimate me, Mr. Thorn," I warned, my voice confident.

To my surprise, he leaned even closer. I could feel the warmth of his body and catch a whiff of his soap.

"Tell me, are you experienced in the kitchen... or are you still… a virgin?" he whispered, sending shivers down my spine.

I froze, speechless at his boldness.

"Will your creations be sweet? Spicy? Creamy? Juicy?" Thorn continued, his voice dripping with intrigue. "What delicacies can you serve me, Ms. Ada Rhyce?"

I was tongue-tied, unable to respond.

Clearing my throat, I found my voice. "C-Can you please move away a little bit?" I requested, my cheeks flushed.

He leaned closer, undeterred. "Why?" he teased.

Damn him! I couldn't control my racing heart.

"M-Manang might see us," I replied, unable to resist his magnetic pull.

"So?" he countered, mischief in his eyes.

"What do you mean 'so'? You have a girlfriend," I reminded him.

"I told you, Chary is not my girlfriend," Thorn asserted sincerely.

He took my hand resting on the table, sending butterflies through my stomach.

"Your hand is cold," he remarked softly. "Why don't we warm it up a little?"

I watched as he gently placed my hand between his thighs, offering his comforting warmth. My mind spun, overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment.

I stood up abruptly, spilling juice towards Thorn. Panic surged as I saw the yellow stain on his trousers.

"What happened, Ms. Ada?" Manang rushed in, concerned. But instead of embarrassment, I grinned at Thorn, who was trying not to laugh.

"It's nothing, Manang," Thorn reassured her, rising. I cursed under my breath, realizing the mess.

Manang excused herself to get a towel.

I faced Thorn, my eyes shooting daggers, even as a slight smirk played on my lips.

"What's so amusing?” he asked.

“Because you're such a p*****t, Thorn Reid."

Without warning, he closed the distance and kissed me passionately. Time stood still as his touch sent electric currents through me.

"Only with you, Matilda Rhyce. Only with you," he whispered, his words lingering in the air.