ARIEL POV
I wasn't certain if my actions were enough reasons for me to react like that towards Ryan. I was angry, not against him for what transpired earlier between Cindy and us, but rather what happened at the restroom.
“She just kept forcing herself on the young Billionaire.” The voice of one of the ladies I met at the restroom geared into my memory lane.
Even when I felt I shouldn't have let them get to me, I still did. I sighed, realizing how unfair it was to react that way towards Ryan.
I simply walked away, trying not to get back at them. Getting back at Cindy was enough for the night. I wasn't much of a fire for fire kind of person.
I hoist my head up as it met with Ryan, who was taking giant strides towards me. My heart beat faster, as I hoped in my heart that he wasn't angry.
The beeping sound of the car jolted me, as I opened the door to his car, not waiting for him to get in front of me. The least I could think of now was for the night to end in no time. I am already exhausted.
Ryan entered as he ignited the car. I closed my eyes as I rested on the headrest of the seat. I could not help but hope in my mind that Ryan wouldn't ask me for any reasons as to why I behaved that way earlier.
I can't even explain to myself why I acted that way. Curse my code of conduct,' I said inwardly.
“Do you have anywhere in mind for our date tonight?” My eyes opened, as I peeked briefly at him.
Our eyes met, as I quickly looked away. I was still surprised he had a calm demeanor.
“I don't have anywhere in mind.” I simply replied.
He hummed, as he glanced at his phone for a while before he continued driving. I wasn't sure what was going on in his mind, but couldn't help but feel he was really in a good mood.
The car parked in front of a mall, as part of the mall, still had lights on. I glanced at my wristwatch, wondering which part of the mall was still on around after 9pm at night.
“Let's go, shall we?” He winked at me, as I tried not to laugh.
I simply got out of the car, as we walked side by side. He opened the door for me, as I stepped in.
“You are free to pick anything of your choice.” He held my hand as we walked towards the attendant.
Late night shopping? Wow, I'm surprised.
“Welcome sir Ryan and his wife. Long time no see, “She welcomed us with a smile, as Ryan smiled warmly.
“Thank you, Stella. We will be doing some shopping tonight.” He stated, as we walked further into the shop.
Ryan picked up a brown gown as he handed it to me. I stared at it, loving the simplicity of it, with small ribbons and glitters attached to it end.
“I hope you will like it.” I nodded, as I quickly changed into it in the changing room.
I walked out, as Ryan smiled at me.
“Good.” He simply remarked.
He lunged to pick one more piece of clothing, but I held his arms. His gaze flickered to mine, as I simply removed my hand from his.
“This should be enough for tonight. I really appreciate it.” He smiled, nodding at me.
I knew in my heart that he was shopping to appease me, but it was totally unnecessary.
“Okay. You do not have to change. It looks good on you.” I felt his gaze lingered from my head down to my toes. I felt it was simply a bad color combination with my blue shoes and blues earrings.
Ryan paid for the gown, as I kept my previous gown in a polythene bag. I wasn't certain if I should explain myself to him. But, to be honest, I felt touched that he showed he cared for me.
I allowed the car to have moved closer to Ryan's house, before deciding to bring up something for us to talk about.
“Ryan, sorry about my outburst earlier. Something else triggered it. Not you or Cindy.” I rambled, as he was silent for a while.
His gaze settled on me for a few seconds because he glanced back at the road.
“Oh. I thought you were pissed about Cindy's appearance. Or was it your time of the month?" His brows furrowed
"I meant Aunty flow.” His eyes widened, as I chuckled.
“It is neither of the two. Thanks for the concern. And I really love the dress you got for me.” His lips raised into a small smile.
“You're welcome.”
The car parked in front of his house as I proceeded to step out but was stopped by Ryan's firm grip on my arm. I turned abruptly, as my stare cut to his.
“Can we spend more time in the garden tonight?” He asked, as I nodded.
“Sure, I would love to.” I replied, as he loosened his grip on me.
The cold air hit me in no time, making me realize the disadvantage of being in that short-sleeved gown. It wasn't a good (clothe) for the sudden chilly night.
Neon lights were in the garden, reminding me of Ryan's family house. I miss Eva and mum.
I smiled warmly as we both settled in a wooden chair made for two or three individuals. I stared at the sky, taking in the beautiful features of the stars. The stars shone brightly in the sky, as it was almost a full moon too.
We remained in silence for a while, as I tried to rub my arm to reduce the coldness that I was feeling. Ryan turned slightly, as he noticed this. He removed his suit as he put it over me, to wear it.
“This should keep you warm a bit.” I put it on, as his cologne wafted through my nostrils.
I could not control the urge as I sniffed it rather loudly.
Ryan chuckled and said:”I never knew you were a fan of my cologne.” My face flushed as I wished that never happened.
If only he knows that not only do I like his cologne, but also the scent that eludes him.
“Don't be shy. It is all yours, sniff more.” I hit him on his shoulder as he laughed, holding his stomach slightly.
“Alright. Pardon me. What was your thought about tonight?” He asked.
“That we should try it more often.” I stated immediately, as his forehead creased slightly.
He would probably reject it. I think I might be overstepping my boundaries. I bit my lips, waiting for him to talk.
“Wow. I would love to, but considering my workload, I can't.” His voice was low.
Well, that was gentle.
“Not a problem. I understand. You can fix it when we have leisure time. And I believe there would be more opportunities in the future for night dates with your investors or friends. So, it is fine.” I briefly hinted, not sounding disappointed a bit.
He moved closer, prompting me to lean on his shoulder,as he pulled me closer.
“One of the worker's weddings is in about two weeks. Can we attend it together?” I raised my head, facing him.
“Of course, I would love to. Thanks for inviting me.” He grinned, nodding curtly.
“So sorry about the way I behaved in the past three weeks.” He apologized, as I poke him in his chest.
“It is okay. I understood.” I paused, as I felt like saying more.
“Thanks for understanding.” He winked, as I blushed.
I rested my head on his shoulder, as he drew me closer to himself. I wasn't sure of what happened next, as I was beginning to doze off.
I think his last set of words were if we could be more friendly.
I nodded, but sleep was calling unto me.