Reese’s face turned red with embarrassment.
She gave a soft “thank you” and took a small sip, sneaking a glance at Leonel.
Their eyes met again, and Reese quickly looked away, flustered.
“I didn’t know you were scared of heights,” Leonel said softly, even though it wasn’t his fault.
Reese’s face grew hotter. “No, Leonel, it’s not on you. It’s… it’s my own fear. I’m just too scared,” she said, embarrassed.
“Don’t say that,” Leonel replied as he sat beside her. His deep eyes met hers. “Don’t put yourself down. You’re stronger than you think, Reese. Believe in yourself. Confidence makes a woman shine.”
Leonel’s words left Reese speechless. She couldn’t find the right words to say. She pressed her lips together and gave him a small, shy nod.
Suddenly, a memory came back to her. “About that day…” she said hesitantly.
Leonel knew what she meant-the day her aunt and uncle-in-law came asking for money, and he had intervened to help her. He’d promised to keep it a secret and even drove her to the recording studio afterward.
A playful smile appeared on his lips as he swirled the champagne in his glass. “So, Reese, how do you plan to thank me?”
Reese froze. Money felt wrong, and a simple meal seemed too plain. She had no idea how to thank someone like him.
She sat there, completely lost.
“Leonel,” she said at last in a serious tone, “just tell me how you want me to thank you. Whatever it is, I’ll do it.”
Leonel’s eyes swept over her, a teasing smile playing at his lips. “There are plenty of ways a woman can thank a man. What do you think you’re able to offer?”
Reese’s hands tightened on her dress. His words made her heart race. She had always seen Leonel as someone distant and respectable. The idea of something romantic had never crossed her mind.
Leonel noticed her reaction. He let out a low chuckle and leaned in, amusement glinting in his eyes.
As Reese looked up, Leonel’s face filled her view. Her heart jumped, and she stepped back without thinking.
“Leonel, I… I…”
Seeing the panic in her eyes, Leonel let out a loud laugh. He gently tapped her forehead. “Calm down. I was just joking. You’re too nervous, aren’t you?”
Relieved by his words, Reese finally let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding.
“I was really scared. For a second, I thought you were…”
Leonel looked her straight in the eyes. His face turned a bit serious as he joked, “Am I really that scary? Is being near me that bad?”
“No, not at all,” Reese quickly said. “To me, you’re a true gentleman. But what you said earlier gave me chills.
I… I thought…”
“You thought I was trying something?” Leonel gave a small grin. “Don’t worry. I don’t force anyone. If I ever did want something, it would only be with your full permission.”
“I’m sorry. I misunderstood,” Reese said, glancing up at him. Her eyes lightened his mood.
With a casual smile, Leonel said, “If you’re really thankful, maybe keep me company for a day when I’m feeling down?”
“Of course, no problem,” Reese replied with a bright smile.
Leonel smiled back, though something sad flickered in his eyes. He leaned back. “Is there someone you like?”
Surprised by the sudden question, Reese almost choked on her drink. She held her glass more tightly.
Even without words, Leonel understood her answer.
Leonel’s heart sank a little. “Who’s the guy? He’s lucky.”
Reese looked down and she then said in a sad voice, “He loves someone else. It’s just me liking him on my own.”
Leonel was stunned after hearing her confession. “With how amazing you are? He must be blind. Who is he? I’ll go talk some sense into him!”
Reese gave a small, bittersweet smile. She knew he was trying to make her feel better. “The girl he loves is really special. I understand. Thanks for being kind, but I’ve already decided to let him go.”
Leonel looked at her for a moment. “Then forget him. There’s someone out there who’ll see only you.”
Reese’s face showed mixed feelings. “I used to think moving on was easy, but now I know it’s not.”
“You want to know the best way to move on?” Leonel leaned in and gently held her wrist. “Fall for someone new.”
Reese blinked in surprise.
“And hey, there’s no better men around you. What do you think? Want to give me a chance?” Leonel looked straight into her eyes.
Reese burst into laughter. “Stop teasing me. You’re the most excellent man I’ve met. I’m sure plenty of girls are already trying to grab your heart.”
“I mean it,” Leonel said, his tone turning serious.
Reese stared at him, stunned.
“I know it’s not easy to change your heart just like that. So how about we start small-with a date?” Leonel’s voice softened. “Give yourself a real chance to move forward. What do you think?”
Reese clenched her fists, thinking it through. She hesitated, but deep down, she knew he was right. The best way to move on was to open up to someone new.
She had already learned how pointless it was to hold on to feelings for Blake. She didn’t want to make that mistake again. If she was ready to let go, then maybe it was time to try.
Reese looked up at Leonel. A small smile formed on her lips. She had made up her mind. “Okay, let’s give it a shot.”
****
That evening, Lucas estate was filled with warm lights.
A shiny Lincoln stopped in front of the estate. A servant quickly opened the door.
An older man stepped out of the car. Reece quickly lend a supportive hand.
“Well, if it isn’t Caleb himself!”
Across the way, Lucas saw Caleb getting out of the car. He walked over to greet him, using Skylar for support.
“It’s been a while, Lucas,” Caleb said with a friendly smile.
“Come on in.” Lucas motioned for them to enter.
Skylar exchanged a glance with Reece. He gave her a warm smile in return.
They walked into the house. The butler had set a table full of tasty food. With the servants’ help, they took their seats in the dining room.
Caleb got straight to the point.
“I’m guessing you didn’t invite me over just for a friendly meal, did you?”