It was almost midnight, and Jayden insisted Emma headed home despite her protests.
"I'm serious, it's fine," Emma said, trying to persuade Jayden.
"I know, but you have to go," Jayden replied, concern etched on his face. "You shouldn't be out so late at your age."
"But I want us to keep talking," Emma said.
"I'll call you at dawn, promise?" Jayden asked.
"Yes," Emma replied.
"You'll get tired of me soon," Jayden teased. "I'll be on the pitch every evening next week."
As they reached the limo, Jayden opened the door. Emma stood before him, their faces inches apart.
"I want to cash in my favor now," Emma whispered, her eyes sparkling. "I want a kiss"
Jayden chuckled. "I was going to do that anyway."
He instantly wrapped his arms around Emma's waist, pulling her close. Their lips touched, lingering in a soft, gentle kiss. No passionate exchange, just a tender brush.
Emma's eyes flashed with disappointment as Jayden released her. That's not the kind of kiss she expected and she wore this disappointed face
Jayden smiled knowingly. "I'd get turned on if we kiss any deeper."
Emma understood, a sly smile spreading across her face.
"I'll see you Monday, Emma." Jayden told her
As Emma entered the limo, Jayden instructed the chauffeur, "Get her home safe, Ben."
The limo drove away, leaving Jayden lost in thought.
Morning came quick as Emma and Mandy laid on Mandy's bed chatting about the previous night.
"I still can't believe it," Mandy said, grinning mischievously. "You guys kissed!"
"Yes!" Emma replied, blushing. "But that was not the kind of kiss I was expecting."
Mandy raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What did you expect?"
Emma giggled. "Something more... passionate."
Mandy laughed. "How old is he, again?"
Emma checked her phone. "This site says 22, but I'm not sure if it's true."
Mandy's eyes widened. "You think he might be older?"
"Maybe a year or two," Emma replied nonchalantly.
Mandy's voice rose. "Wow, Em! He's older than you!"
"Only by four years" Emma said, shrugging.
Mandy's expression turned serious. "You're not even eighteen yet... how come he's comfortable showing you off?"
Emma whispered, "Firstly, your dad has six years on your mom, so don't act like the age difference is a thing... And also... I might not have told him I'm eighteen already."
Mandy's eyes widened in surprise. "Emma, you didn't!"
Emma's voice dropped to a whisper. "I know it's crazy, but..."
Mandy's concern grew. "Emma, his career is on the line! If people find out, he'll be called a pedophile!"
Emma paused, considering Mandy's words. "We can keep it a secret until I'm 18."
Mandy shook her head, smiling wryly. "I can't believe you, Em."
Emma blew raspberries at Mandy, who joked, "You two better stay out of each other's pants!"
As Mandy stepped out of the room, Emma's phone rang.
"It's Jayden," Emma squealed.
"Tell him I said hi," Mandy called out.
Hey, beautiful. How's your Saturday unfolding?" Jayden asked.
"Relaxing, thanks. Just woke up. You?" Emma replied.
"Same here. Reviewing some game footage. Can't let my team down," Jayden said.
"You'll crush it. You're amazing on the pitch," Emma assured him.
"Thanks, Emma. Means a lot coming from you. So how was your night?" Jayden inquired.
"Was hot. I pretty much dreamt about us," Emma revealed.
Jayden chuckled. "Oh? What triggered the dream?"
Emma giggled. "The kiss, of course."
Jayden teased, "Not-the-kind-of-kiss, huh?"
Emma playfully retorted, "Shut up. You know what I mean."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly filling the room with Emma's laughter and lively chuckles.