Tristan's eyes darkened, mock indignation creeping in. "You think I'm some gigolo? You forced yourself on me! Took my first time and now you're boasting about it in front of me?"
Summer's mind raced, her retort nearly slipping out. "Hey, I also gave my first away to you…" Her voice trailed off, realization hitting her, but Tristan's smile softened as he watched her flustered state.
Gently pulling her into his arms, he looked deep into her eyes. "I'm truly sorry for everything that happened to you until now, but I'm really proud of the woman you've become despite it all." He tightened his grip, sincerity flooding his voice. "But you know what? I'm glad and really grateful, you took advantage of me that night. It's the only part of your past I can cherish."
Summer's face turned crimson, her heart racing. "Stop it! This is absurd!" she protested, looking away then something clicked, "wait.. grateful? Are you mocking me?" Her face turned red from both anger and shame.
Tristan chuckled, "I wouldn't dare mock you Sam but you see, I too was drugged by a bussiness associate and fortunately your arrival and demands helped me." Summer flushed when she heard the word 'demands' she stuttered, "I-I thought you're a gigolo sent for my help that..that's why..." Tristan smirked, enjoying her discomfort, "what happened to the commanding Sam who demanded I undress you and take you?"
She shot back, "I don't remember any of it! Stop making up stories. I helped you, even paid you, remember?"
"Hmm," he mused, a teasing glint in his eye. "How about I help you remember that night? I promise I can satisfy you without drugs too. And by the way, 500 thousand isn't enough. You took my first time; who's going to take responsibility for that?"
"Wh-what responsibility?" Summer stammered, suddenly tongue-tied. "It was my first too… We're even! If you want more money, I… I'll give you… how much?"
Tristan was torn between laughter and exasperation at her innocence, his face splitting into a smile despite the ridiculousness of it all. "So you still think of me as a gigolo, huh? Fine, I can be your gigolo, but exclusively for you! My fee is high, and you must take responsibility for what you did to me!"
Summer puffed up her cheeks like an innocent rabbit. "Sorry, but you're not a gigolo. If you don't want the money, then what do you want? You can return my money if you don't want it!"
Tristan lightly poked her nose, laughing. "Stingy!"
She scrunched her nose in protest. "Fine! What do you want then?"
He leaned closer, eyes twinkling with mischief, but beneath the playful exterior, serious thoughts churned in his mind. Why am I doing this? he wondered. Is it just because of that night? Or is it something more? He had never felt this protective over anyone before, especially not a girl who had made him laugh and fluster in equal measure.
"You'll have to date me to take responsibility for forcing me into this situation and taking away my innocence," he said, the words slipping out before he could second-guess himself.
Summer's heart raced at his unexpected demand. Date him? The thought sent her into a whirlwind of embarrassment and confusion. She blushed fiercely and averted her gaze.
Tristan tensed, fear creeping in. What if she says no? He really wanted to make her his girlfriend, to protect her, pamper her, to love and care for her. He wanted to heal her childhood scars with his affection, and the thought of losing that chance made his heart ache.
Summer abruptly moved away, going to her bed, and his heart sank at what he feared was rejection. But then, her mischievous smirk returned. "I'm sleepy… and could use my personal gigolo for warmth."
Instantly, Tristan's mood lifted. "Personal gigolo? Now we're talking!" He joined her on the bed, wrapping her in his arms as they both settled in.
As they drifted into sleep, the faintest smiles lingered on their faces, hearts feeling a little lighter, and a little warmer, together in the comfort of each other's presence. Tristan's thoughts swirled with hope—maybe this was the start of something beautiful.
As the soft morning light filtered through the curtains, Tristan stirred awake, his gaze landing on the figure nestled in his arms. Summer lay there, her face serene and beautiful in sleep. A smile spread across his lips as he admired her. Since yesterday's revelations, he had seen her in an entirely new light. She had chosen to trust him, and he vowed to never betray that trust.
His admiration for her deepened; she was strong, resilient, and capable. In his life, only she had compelled him to step outside his comfort zone, to dream bigger and reach higher. With her, he felt complete, as if he had finally achieved something profound. This was why he had decided to ask her out—to make her his girlfriend. The thought of them staying in this moment forever filled him with warmth and happiness, shocking him with how deeply she affected him.
Suddenly, Summer stirred, a soft groan escaping her lips as she shifted in his arms. He couldn't help but smile. Leaning down, he gently kissed her forehead, the simple gesture meant to wake her softly.
Her dazed eyes fluttered open, and upon seeing him, a smile broke across her face, lighting up her features. "Morning, sleepyhead," he teased, his voice low and warm.
Tristan leaned closer, whispering in her ear, "So, have you decided to take responsibility?"
Her eyes sparkled with mischief. "Not yet. It's not that easy, you know. First, you need to impress me. Take me on a date, and if I'm satisfied, then I'll take full responsibility… and advantages of you!" She winked, a playful challenge dancing in her eyes.
Tristan felt a rush of heat at her words, his heart racing. He looked deeply into her eyes, passion igniting between them. Without thinking, he leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both tender and fervent.
Their lips met, and it was like fireworks went off. The warmth of her mouth against his sent shivers down his spine. He deepened the kiss, their tongues dancing together in a sweet, intimate rhythm. The world outside faded as they lost themselves in the moment. It was a kiss filled with unspoken emotions, a silent conversation that conveyed everything he felt for her: admiration, desire, and a deep-seated need to protect and cherish her.
Summer melted into the kiss, responding with equal fervor, her hands finding their way to his hair, pulling him closer. Time seemed to stretch, each second rich with warmth and tenderness. When they finally broke apart, both gasping for air, Summer remained dazed, her cheeks flushed, lips slightly swollen from their passionate exchange.
Tristan stood up, still slightly breathless from the kiss, a goofy grin plastered on his face. "I'll be right back. I need to freshen up and grab some breakfast for us."
"Wait!" Summer called after him, her playful tone returning. "You can't just leave me here after that kiss!"
He turned back, leaning against the doorframe with a teasing smirk. "What's wrong? Can't handle a little freshening up without me?"
Summer crossed her arms, a mock pout forming on her lips. "No, I just might die of so much hard work without my personal chaperone!"
Tristan laughed, shaking his head. "Okay, okay. Just for you, I'll hurry back." He disappeared into his suite, the thrill of the morning still buzzing in his veins.
As he prepared breakfast, thoughts swirled in his mind. This is just the beginning, he mused, excitement bubbling within him. He couldn't wait to show her how much she meant to him and to explore the possibilities of their budding relationship. He knew he wanted to give her the world, starting with a perfect date.