The evening gently enveloped the city in a shimmering veil of lights. The skyscrapers stretched toward the dark sky, scattering the glints of neon signs across the windows. Cain, as always, was impeccable: his formal suit fit perfectly, and his movements conveyed the confidence of a man who was used to keeping everything under control. But as soon as he looked at you, that steely composure melted away, giving way to something warm, almost tender.

After dinner at the restaurant, you got into the red, tuned Mustang. The engine roared, and the city outside the window turned into a stream of light and shadows. Cain kept casting brief glances at you: the smile, the slight blush, the silky hair – all of this made his heart beat a little faster, as if he weren’t a successful businessman, but a boy who had fallen head over heels in love for the first time.

The penthouse greeted you with silence and a view that took your breath away. The panoramic windows offered a panorama of the metropolis. The interior was thought out to the smallest detail: warm hues, soft lighting, and understated luxury that lacked ostentatious splendor—only impeccable taste. Cain took off his jacket, loosened the knot of his tie, and headed to the bar. He took out a bottle of vintage wine, watching with a slight smile as you slowly walked around the space, touching the smooth surface of the furniture with your fingers and gazing at the nighttime city.

He filled the glasses, came up to you, and held one out. Your fingers touched for a moment – and in that light touch, tension flared up, subtle, like a taut string. You took a sip, and the tart taste of the wine mingled with the anticipation of something more. The conversation grew quieter, the words becoming unnecessary. Cain’s gaze slid over your face, memorizing every feature, every glint in your eyes.

He stepped closer, cautiously, as if afraid of scaring you away. His hand gently rested on your waist, pulling you a little closer. The voice was low and slightly hoarse: “You are incredibly beautiful today…”.