Leila felt a buzz of anticipation vibrating under her skin all day, like an electric current she couldn't shake. The kiss she'd shared with Jesci played in her mind on repeat, a loop of intense moments that kept her on edge. She could still feel the warmth of his lips, the way he'd looked at her as if she was the only person in the room. It was thrilling, intoxicating—and more than a little confusing. Why was she acting like this, so distracted, so... infatuated? She barely recognized herself.

By the time her last class rolled around, she felt half-excited, half-nervous about seeing him again. Grace, who usually sat with her, had an appointment and wouldn't be there. Somehow, the idea of sitting alone with the possibility of Jesci showing up made her heart race even more.

Entering the lecture hall, Leila scanned the room, hoping to spot him. But he wasn't there. She took a deep breath and settled into her seat, pulling out her laptop and logging in, trying to focus on the task at hand. She was about to take a calming breath when a tall figure appeared beside her, slipping into the seat. She turned her head, and there he was—Jesci, with that easy, confident smile that made her pulse skip.

Her breath hitched, and she could feel herself stiffen, her usual calm composure vanishing. His gaze lingered on her, his smile growing a little more amused as he watched her.
"Hey," he said, his voice soft but laced with a teasing undertone. "Miss me?"

Leila swallowed, feeling her cheeks flush. She tried to respond, but her voice came out quieter than she'd intended. "Um, hi. I... wasn't sure you'd be here."

Jesci chuckled, leaning back slightly as he watched her, his gaze warm and playful. "Why? You trying to avoid me?" he asked, his voice low.

She shook her head quickly, feeling both embarrassed and strangely flustered. "No, just... wasn't sure."

His gaze didn't waver, and the intensity of it made her feel like he could see right through her composed exterior. "You're quieter than you were the other night," he noted with a smirk, leaning in just a bit. "Almost as if you've forgotten how bold you were in the closet."

The mention of their kiss made her shift in her seat, her heart pounding as his words stirred up the memory. Her pulse quickened, and a heat spread through her as she tried to keep herself from melting under his gaze. "I... that was different," she managed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Jesci's smile deepened, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I don't know," he replied, his voice teasing. "Seemed like the real you to me."

Leila felt her heart skip a beat, her cheeks burning as she tried to focus on her laptop, but Jesci's words and presence made it nearly impossible. She could feel his gaze on her, as if he was waiting to see what she'd say or do next. Her composure, her usual reserve, felt paper-thin.

He leaned in slightly, his tone softer now, but still carrying that playful edge. "No need to be shy, Leila. Not after the other night."

His words held a weight that made her pulse race. There was a warmth in his gaze that she couldn't ignore, something that made her feel seen in a way that was both thrilling and terrifying.

Leila took a steadying breath, managing to glance back at him, her heart racing. "I... guess I just don't know what to make of you yet."

Jesci chuckled, leaning back as if giving her space, though his gaze remained on her. "That makes two of us," he said, his voice low. "But I'm enjoying the mystery."

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the rest of the room faded away, leaving just the two of them in that charged silence. She didn't know what this was or where it would lead, but she couldn't deny the pull between them.

As the class finally wrapped up, Leila exhaled, feeling a wave of relief at the prospect of leaving. She began packing her things, determined to slip away without further incident. But just as she slung her bag over her shoulder, Jesci leaned in, that familiar smirk playing on his lips.
"You know," he murmured, his voice low, "it's kind of cute seeing you all flustered like this."

Leila felt her cheeks warm instantly, and she tried to play it cool, glancing away. "I'm not flustered."
His smirk only grew, and he tilted his head, looking her over with a glint of amusement in his eyes. "I thought you might've texted by now. Guess I was wrong."

Leila froze, realization dawning as she remembered they'd exchanged numbers at the party. She hadn't even checked her phone, too caught up in her nerves and her replaying of that kiss. "Oh—I'm sorry, I totally forgot." She managed a small, apologetic smile, hoping he'd let her off the hook.

Jesci gave a light shrug. "It's fine," he said smoothly, though his expression told a different story. "I was just joking." But she could see something behind his eyes, a flicker that hinted he'd actually meant it.

An awkward silence settled between them, and Leila turned her hand clutching the strap of her bag as she tried to think of something to say. She opened her mouth to say goodbye, but before she could take a step, Jesci reached out, his hand catching her arm.

She looked up, her eyes meeting his, and he flashed that signature smirk of his, leaning in just a bit closer. "Let me take you out for dinner tonight?"

The invitation stunned her into silence, her mind racing as she processed his words. She hadn't expected this—hadn't thought he'd be interested in anything more than what had already happened between them.
"Uh... I—" she stammered, her thoughts jumbled, but the thrill of his attention sent a flutter through her. "I mean... sure. Yes."

His smirk softened just a touch, though his eyes held that same intensity. "Good. Be ready at six thirty," he said, releasing her arm but letting his fingers linger a moment longer than necessary. "Wear something ...nice."

Leila swallowed, nodding as she tried to hide the excitement coursing through her. "Alright," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Without another word, he turned and walked away, leaving her standing there, her heart pounding with anticipation. She glanced down, realizing her hands were shaking just slightly, and took a steadying breath, trying to ground herself.
Tonight, dinner with Jesci

****

Leila glanced at her phone, watching the time change from six thirty to six thirty one, a twist of nerves settled in her stomach. She couldn't help but wonder if Jesci had forgotten, or maybe changed his mind. The anticipation was almost unbearable as she tried to distract herself, adjusting her dress for the hundredth time.

But just as another "what if" crossed her mind, the low hum of an engine pulled her attention back to the driveway. A sleek black Evo 8 came into view, parking with a smooth precision that left no doubt it was him. Relief washed over her, and a small smile tugged at her lips.

The driver's door swung open, and out stepped Jesci, looking effortlessly captivating in a tight-fitting black dress shirt that highlighted his lean, muscular frame. He wore black jeans and his signature black Doc Martens, the outfit completed with a slight glint of silver from his rings, bringing attention to the tattoos on his hands. As he walked toward her, a smirk crept onto his face, the kind that always seemed to hold a hint of mischief.

His gaze flicked over her, lingering as he took in the dark blood-red dress that clung to her figure, the sleeves flaring out dramatically at the ends. "You look amazing, Leila," he said, his voice low.

Leila blushed, ducking her head slightly as she managed a shy smile. "Thanks. You don't look so bad yourself."

Jesci chuckled, giving her an appreciative once-over before reaching out to open the passenger door for her. "Get in," he said smoothly. "Let's make tonight worth dressing up for."

She slipped into the car, her heart racing as he closed the door and made his way to the driver's seat. Inside, the atmosphere was charged with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty, but the steady rumble of the engine beneath her seemed to match her pulse, steadying her nerves as they pulled away from her house.

As they drove, Jesci glanced over at her, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "Did you really think I wouldn't show up? I saw you checking your phone."

Leila's cheeks flushed. "I mean... maybe, just for a second," she admitted with a small laugh. "I wasn't entirely sure"
He smirked, keeping his eyes on the road. "I'm not that terrible," he replied, his tone teasing. "I couldn't stand up a pretty thing like you"

Leila felt herself relax, the playful banter easing her nerves.
Leila ran her hand along the sleek leather seat, glancing around the interior of Jesci's car. "This is really nice," she said, breaking the silence. "Very... boy racer-esque."

Jesci let out a low chuckle, glancing over at her with a playful smirk. "Boy racer, huh?" he echoed, clearly amused. "I wouldn't call myself that. I just... like cars. Like working on them."
She nodded, a genuine smile crossing her face. "That's pretty cool. I've never understood the appeal of cars like this, but I kinda get it now. It suits you."

Jesci's smirk softened, his eyes flicking back to the road as he turned on his indicator. "Well, thanks. It's more than just driving, you know? It's about the work you put into it, making something yours."
Leila's curiosity piqued. "So, if a car broke down... could you fix it?"

A grin spread across Jesci's face as he made a left turn with one hand on the steering wheel, the other on the gear stick. "I guess you could say that," he replied, sounding both modest and confident. "I've worked on enough engines to know my way around them."

She watched his expression, noting the pride that flickered in his eyes. It was the first time she'd seen him talk about something with genuine interest, and it made her wonder what other layers he kept hidden.

They drove in comfortable silence for a moment, the city lights reflecting off the car's windows, casting soft shadows across Jesci's face. Every now and then, his hand would move, shifting gears with an ease that suggested he was completely at home behind the wheel. There was something about it that felt effortless and assured.

Leila couldn't help but feel a little bit captivated, caught between the thrill of the unknown and the quiet steadiness of the drive.
As they drove, Jesci glanced over at her, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "So, what about you?" he asked, breaking the quiet. "What's your thing? What do you do for fun?"

Leila shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed by the question. She'd never really thought about it before. Most of her time was taken up by classes, assignments, and studying. "Honestly... I don't know," she replied, frowning slightly. "I mean, I guess I like reading. It's kind of therapeutic. But I know that sounds boring compared to, you know, you and your cars."
Jesci chuckled, shaking his head. "There's nothing boring about it. You just have to find what's yours."

She thought for a moment, then said, "Well, I can play the piano. I haven't in a while, but I'd love to pick it up again." Her eyes lit up a bit as she continued, "There's something about it... it's like the music can just take you somewhere else. Pianos are so beautiful, you know? It's almost like they have their own personality. But with uni, I just don't have the time."

Jesci nodded, his eyes thoughtful as he glanced at her. "That's impressive," he said genuinely. "Piano isn't exactly easy."
A small, shy smile crept onto Leila's face. "Thanks. I miss it sometimes. It's just hard to find a balance with everything going on."

He turned his attention back to the road, his tone softer as he said, "I get that. But maybe you should make time for it—sounds like it means something to you."

Leila looked over at him, surprised by his words, and felt a warmth spread through her chest. "Yeah, potentially." she replied, the idea lingering in her mind as they continued down the road.

Jesci pulled up smoothly next to an upscale restaurant, the kind of place Leila would usually admire from a distance rather than step into. As he parked, a young valet appeared and greeted him with a respectful nod. "Good evening, Mr. Krookes."

Leila sat in the passenger seat, glancing out at the restaurant, nerves settling in her stomach as she took in the sleek design and golden lights reflecting off the marble entrance. She couldn't help but wonder if this place was going to be out of her comfort zone—not just in ambiance, but in price.

Jesci stepped out of the car and, without missing a beat, handed his keys to the valet. "It's got a turbo timer, so don't rush it," he said, his tone casual but firm. The valet nodded eagerly, glancing at the car with a touch of awe.
"Of course, Mr. Krookes," the valet replied.

Jesci walked around to her side and opened the door, offering her his hand with a smirk. "Ready?" he asked, his gaze softening as she took his hand.

She slipped out of the car, trying to calm her nerves, and gave him a small smile. "I, uh, hope this place isn't too fancy."
Jesci chuckled, his smirk widening. "Relax. Tonight's on me."

Jesci barely acknowledged the hostess's enthusiastic greeting as they walked through the front doors and into the main lobby. "Dining, please, Sarah," he replied coolly, not bothering with a second glance, keeping his arm protectively around Leila as they followed Sarah through the elegant dining room.

Soft, classical music floated through the air, and warm, dim lighting cast a soft glow over the room, enhancing the luxurious ambiance. The table Sarah led them to was set with a crisp white tablecloth, polished crystal glasses, and gleaming silver cutlery—a picture of understated elegance.

Jesci released Leila, pulling out her chair with a casual charm. "After you," he said, a hint of a smile softening his usual intensity.

She thanked him as she sat, feeling a little flustered by the attentiveness he was showing. He pushed her chair in gently before moving around to take his own seat across from her.

Leila glanced around, admiring the ambiance, her gaze drawn to the chandeliers overhead and the rich, intricate decor that made the restaurant feel like something out of a dream. "This place is... lovely," she said, her voice filled with awe. "It's so beautiful."

Jesci leaned back, observing her reaction. "I thought you'd appreciate it," he replied smoothly.

She looked down, her cheeks warming at his comment. The waiter approached, he offered a polite smile and asked, "What can I get for you both to drink?"
Without hesitation, Jesci replied, "Top-shelf champagne, please."

The waiter nodded approvingly and left to fulfill the request. Leila leaned forward, her voice barely a whisper as she asked, "Do I need my ID?"

Jesci chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "No, Leila. You don't need your ID—not when you're with me."

She nodded, a little flustered, her gaze dropping to the pristine table setting. Everything looked so perfectly placed, almost too beautiful to touch. Jesci, however, had no such reservations. He casually picked up the menu from his plate, glancing over it before lifting his eyes to meet hers.

"Alright, let's see," he said, a small grin playing on his lips as he scanned the options. "They've got a really good truffle pasta here, a seafood risotto that's supposed to be amazing, or... how do you feel about filet mignon?" His expression was thoughtful, a hint of playful seriousness in his eyes as he tried to gauge her tastes.

Leila couldn't help but smile as he made little faces while giving her each option, clearly trying to make her feel more comfortable.

She was struck by the effort he was making, his uncharacteristically sweet side breaking through the edges of his usual cool demeanor.

"I'm thinking the truffle pasta sounds amazing," she finally replied, her smile widening.
"Good choice," Jesci said with an approving nod. He gave her a quick, genuine smile that made her heart skip a beat.