If only

A Promise of More to Come

After finishing work, Aria headed out to join Bryan at a secluded restaurant located a good distance away from the city center. Aria entered the almost empty restaurant, eager to see Bryan. They greeted each other with a hug and a peck on the cheek. They both took their seats. "Thank you for coming to meet with me", Bryan expressed. "Don't sweat it", Aria said with a gentle smile. The waiter brought a jewelry box to Aria. Puzzled, Aria asked Bryan about the box. "What's this?". "It's a gift for you", he said. Her face fell, revealing the disappointment she felt about Bryan's little trick. "Is there something wrong?", he asked as soon as he realized her face changed. She raised her head to look at him, "Yes... Are you really doing this?". Fazed, he asked, "Doing what?". "Buying me with an expensive gift.". "I'm not buying you. I just wanted to apologize to you for bringing you too much attention because of what happened at the Gala.". "You could have started by saying that, I would have understood everything. I don't want this. I traveled all the way here to see you, spend time with you, and have conversations with you, but this is the first thing I got from you.", she slid the box to Bryan feeling completely offended. "Why? I thought you might like it.". "Bryan... I don't want what we might have going on ruined by money or status". Bryan realized that what Aria was trying to say was not to hurt him or push him away from her. "So tell me. What do you want?", he asked out of curiosity, trying to figure Aria out. "I want you. Not "Bryan, the CEO and owner of Owens Inc." or "Bryan, the richest bachelor in the city". I want to know you, as to who you are not what you have and what you can afford. And I would appreciate it if you got to know me too.". Impressed with Aria's level of thinking and her communication skills, he smirked, thinking about how lucky he was to have found someone that brave to tell him what he was doing wrong and interested in getting to know him past his status. "Yes, let's do that", he said, leaning forward as he felt the relief of being wanted by someone. Even though he's not fully ready to open up to Aria, the thought of getting close to her excites him even more. He still hadn't realized how hard he was slowly falling for her.

Have been secretly dating for a month and a half now, getting to know each other's every side, Bryan and Aria's relationship has been smooth sailing. With late-night video chats and early-morning texts, sharing secrets about each other and things they want to do together, the type of adventures they want to take part in, and the memories they both like to create. James and Natalie have noticed a few behavior changes in both Aria and Bryan. Natalie started to feel skeptical when Aria accidentally said she was dating someone but couldn't reveal who it was when Natalie suggested Aria to go on blind dates. James picked some odd behaviors in Bryan as he was almost free most of the time, regarding the fact that his schedule was tight with all the meetings he had to attend and deals he had to make for the growth of Owens Inc, and oddly enough, Bryan was always calm as if he had found his safe place during that hectic time. But "Who was it?", was a question lingering in James's mind. James and Natalie had a conversation about their buddies during their date night, a movie night at James's place. "Do you think they're dating each other?", James asked curiously, with so many theories running wild in his head. "Nah, I don't think so. They don't have anything in common.", Natalie replied. "You've got a point, I'd think Bryan wouldn't engage in that sort of relationship with a journalist. His image is important to his company, and he wouldn't want a scandal to ruin it". "I've got an idea. How about we invite them for a night out and see how they behave around each other? There may be signs". "That's a pretty good idea. And it'd be crazier if they both didn't know that they'd see each other". "Brilliant!.. Now our questions will be answered and no more secrets. I can't wait", she squealed, kicking her feet in excitement.

Recently finding out that Aria couldn't skate but wished to, Bryan planned a surprise for her for their date. He had booked the entire ice rink for their date. Aria's heart fluttered with anticipation. She'd never skated before, but with Bryan by her side, she was willing to try anything. Bryan laced up Aria's skates, "You'll do great, Blondie", he reassured her. Aria clung to the railing, her legs wobbly. Bryan took her hands, leading her onto the ice. The cold seeped through her socks, but she ignored it. Bryan's smile was infectious, and soon, they were gliding together. Aria stumbled, her arms flailing. Bryan caught her, steadying her. "I got you," he said as Aria held onto him. "Thanks," Aria blushed, her cheeks rosy from exertion. She watched Bryan skate backward, his movement so fluid like he was one with the ice. He circled her, offering encouragement. "Relax. Feel the ice beneath your blades" he said. "I'll try," Aria said as she tried, and slowly she found her rhythm. As they skated hand in hand, Aria's confidence grew. She laughed at her own clumsiness, and Bryan's eyes sparkled. "You're doing amazing, Blondie!" he said. Aria's heart swelled. The music played softly- a waltz that seemed meant for them. Bryan twirled her, and suddenly, they were close- so close that Aria could feel his breath against her skin. Bryan's gaze held hers, and Aria's pulse raced. He cupped her face, his thumbs brushing her cheeks. "Aria," he whispered. His lips hovered above hers, and the world narrowed down to this moment. Aria's eyes fluttered closed, anticipation building. But just as their lips were about to meet, she lost her footing. Her legs gave away, and she stumbled backward. Aria landed on the ice, her laughter mixing with the soft strains of music. Bryan knelt down beside her, concern all over his face. "Are you okay?" he asked. Aria nodded as Bryan helped her up. Her cheeks were flushed, and her eyes sparkled. "I guess I need more practice" she admitted, brushing snow off her coat. Bryan grinned, his fingers lingering on hers. "You're perfect", he said, his gaze intense. Aria’s heart skipped a beat, she wasn’t just falling on the ice; she was falling for him. And then, he kissed her soft and sweet lips, a promise of more to come.