Leah had spent the entire day distracted, her mind replaying every moment of her encounter with Derrick. It had been years since she felt that instant spark with someone—if ever. The way he spoke, the way he looked at her, as if she were the most fascinating person in the room, left her breathless.

  As she stood in front of her closet, deliberating over what to wear, Emily lounged on her bed, watching her with amusement.

  “You’re acting like a teenager with her first crush,” Emily teased, twirling a strand of blonde hair around her finger.

  Leah sighed, holding up two dresses. “Is it that obvious?”

  Emily smirked. “Painfully. But I like this. It’s been a while since I’ve seen you this excited. So, tell me—what’s the plan?”

  Leah turned back to the mirror, holding up a deep emerald green dress against her frame. “Dinner at The Monarch.”

  Emily let out a low whistle. “Derrick doesn’t mess around. That place is impossible to get into.”

  Leah blushed, smoothing the fabric of her dress. “He must have connections.”

  “Or he’s ridiculously charming.” Emily grinned. “Either way, I say enjoy it.”

  Leah finally settled on the green dress, pairing it with delicate gold jewelry. As she applied a final swipe of lipstick, her phone buzzed with a message.

  Derrick: I’m outside. No rush. Take your time.

  Her stomach flipped. He was here.

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  “Go,” Emily urged, shooing her toward the door. “And don’t overthink it.”

  Leah grabbed her purse, took a steadying breath, and made her way outside. Derrick leaned against his sleek black car, looking impossibly handsome in a tailored suit. The way he smiled at her when she stepped into view sent warmth flooding through her chest.

  “You look stunning,” he said, opening the passenger door for her.

  “Thank you.” She slid in, inhaling the scent of leather and faint cologne. It was intoxicating.

  The drive to The Monarch was filled with easy conversation. Derrick had a way of making her feel at ease, as if they had known each other far longer than a single night. He told her stories of his travels, of the hidden gems he had found in cities all over the world, and she hung onto every word.

  When they arrived at the restaurant, Leah was swept into a world of soft candlelight, elegant décor, and quiet jazz playing in the background. Derrick led her to a secluded table near the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city.

  “This is incredible,” she murmured, taking it all in.

  Derrick leaned forward, his blue eyes fixed on hers. “Only the best for you.”

  Dinner was a blur of laughter, stolen glances, and stories shared over glasses of wine. Leah found herself opening up in a way she hadn’t in years. She told him about her childhood in a small town, her love for books, and how she had dreamed of becoming an editor since she was a little girl.

  Derrick listened with genuine interest, asking thoughtful questions, making her feel seen in a way that was rare. And when he spoke about his own life—his passion for restoring historical buildings, his love for classic literature—she was captivated.

  As dessert arrived, Derrick reached across the table, brushing his fingers lightly over hers. “I have a confession.”

  Leah arched a brow. “Oh?”

  “I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed a dinner this much.”

  Heat crept up her neck. “I find that hard to believe.”

  He shook his head. “It’s true. There’s something about you, Leah. Something I don’t want to let slip away.”

  Her breath hitched. She had spent so long guarding her heart, afraid of getting hurt. But with Derrick, it felt different. Effortless. Right.

  As the night came to an end, Derrick walked her to her door, hesitating only a moment before tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

  “Would it be too soon to ask to see you again tomorrow?” he murmured.

  Leah smiled, her heart pounding. “Not soon at all.”

  Derrick grinned, brushing a soft kiss against her cheek. “Goodnight, Leah.”