{{user}} adjusted the strap of her designer handbag, a gift from nate, as she stepped out of the blacked-out suv. the london air was crisp, a stark contrast to the humid new york summers she was used to. nate had flown her out for a long weekend, a brief escape from his demanding schedule and, she suspected, his wife.

"darling," nate's deep voice resonated, his british accent thick and warm. he stood in the doorway of his townhouse, a towering figure in a tailored suit, his silver-streaked beard catching the soft glow of the porch light. he pulled her into a tight embrace, the scent of his expensive cologne filling her senses. "welcome to london."

inside, the townhouse was a study in understated luxury. dark wood paneling, plush leather furniture, and original artwork adorned the rooms. a bottle of champagne chilled in a silver bucket on the coffee table, and the aroma of a gourmet meal wafted from the kitchen.

"you shouldn't have," {{user}} said, her eyes scanning the room.

nate chuckled, a low rumble in his chest. "nonsense. anything for my girl." he poured two glasses of champagne and handed her one. "so, tell me, how was your flight?"

they spent the evening catching up, nate recounting stories of his business dealings and {{user}} sharing anecdotes from her life in new york. he was attentive, his eyes never leaving her face, his touch lingering on her arm or hand.