It had been a week since the shocking revelation about Dylan's true identity, yet Ember still couldn't bring herself to fully trust him. She wanted him to fight harder, to prove that he truly deserved her forgiveness. But deep down, her heart had already surrendered—already forgiven him, even if her mind refused to admit it.
Dylan, however, didn't give up. Over the past week, he had done everything he could to make things right. He had opened up to her, revealing the overwhelming pressures of being a celebrity, explaining why he had kept certain things hidden. He took her on small, thoughtful dates, filling their moments with tenderness and quiet sincerity. Late into the night, he sat beside her, studying under dim library lights, stealing glances when he thought she wouldn't notice. On weekends, he whisked her away on long drives, hoping the wind in her hair and the open road would bring back the light in her eyes.
Every gesture, every lingering touch, every whispered "I'm sorry" was his silent plea for forgiveness. He longed for her to forget that painful day, to believe in him again, to feel safe in his arms. Yet, despite her heart already softening, Ember's mind remained guarded. She wasn't waiting for grand gestures or empty promises—she was waiting for something real. She needed Dylan to prove, beyond a doubt, that he was worth trusting again.
Another beautiful day had arrived in the city Shine,
the golden sunlight streaming through the window, filling the room with warmth. Dylan was already awake, sitting beside Ember, watching her as she stirred in her sleep. The moment he noticed her eyelids fluttering open, he leaned in with a soft smile and whispered, "Good morning, baby."
Ember yawned, stretching lazily before murmuring, "Morning." As her eyes adjusted to the light, a serene feeling washed over her. This day is so beautiful—the sun is shining, and the love of my life is right beside me. A small, unannounced smile appeared on her lips.
Seeing it, Dylan tilted his head and asked, "What's making you smile so early?"
"Nothing," Ember replied, turning toward the window where the sunlight poured into the room, painting everything in a golden glow.
Dylan pouted, making him look even cuter, though, in truth, curiosity flickered in his eyes. "Nothing, really?" he pressed, leaning closer.
Ember chuckled at his expression. She reached out, cupping his face in both hands, and gently squeezed his cheeks. "Oh! So cute... You're really curious about what I'm thinking, aren't you?" she teased, giggling.
"Yes, I am really curious," Dylan admitted, his voice dropping as he leaned in even closer.
Ember brought her lips near his ear and whispered, "Don't you think it's a lovely day? The sun is bright, and you're right here with me." She ended with a soft chuckle.
Dylan smirked. "You're right. And if you like it so much, I can come every day to greet you in the early morning." Before Ember could respond, he pressed a gentle kiss on her forehead. "Now go get ready—we're going out," he added.
Her eyes lit up with curiosity. "Where are we going?" she asked eagerly.
Dylan crossed his arms, a playful grin on his lips. "Why do you have so many questions?"
Ember rolled her eyes. "I'm just asking so I know what to wear." She turned toward the closet, scanning through her options.
Dylan smirked and leaned against the bedpost. "If you want, I can help you with that," he offered, his voice teasing yet filled with affection.
"Sure," Ember agreed, deciding that if Dylan wasn't going to tell her where they were going, then it was only fair for him to choose the dress.
After a brief moment of consideration, Dylan pulled out an elegant outfit—a black fitted top paired with a deep red, pleated silk midi skirt. He held it up in front of her, eyeing her reflection in the mirror. "This will do," he said confidently.
Ember took a glance at the dress and nodded. "Okay, I'll get changed," she said, stepping forward. But Dylan didn't move. He stood there, arms crossed, watching her with a teasing glint in his eyes.
She stared at him expectantly, waiting for him to leave, but he met her gaze and smirked. His voice was low, playful, yet firm. "If you don't want to change, I can help you."
"Dylan..." Ember sighed, exasperated.
"You prevent," she shot back, trying to push him out. "Get out."
Dylan chuckled but finally relented. "Okay, but come fast. If you take too long, I'm coming in," he warned, his impatience clear.
Ember huffed, rolling her eyes as she shut the door behind him. "What a prevent," she muttered under her breath.
"I mean it, Ember! If you don't come out soon, I'm coming in," Dylan called out again from the other side.
Minutes later, Ember descended the stairs, dressed and ready. She found Dylan waiting, tapping his fingers against the doorframe.
"Are we going or not?" she snapped, folding her arms.
Dylan smirked and pulled the door open for her. "Let's go."
"Where?" she asked, still confused.
"Get in the car," he instructed simply.
Ember sighed but obeyed, sliding into the passenger seat.
Inside the car, a thick silence settled between them. The air felt heavy, tense. Ember shifted uncomfortably, sensing the unspoken words hanging in the space between them.
"This atmosphere feels weird," she thought, biting her lip. Deciding to break the silence, she cleared her throat. "Ahem!"
Dylan glanced at her briefly but didn't say a word.
"So... if you're not going to tell me where we're going, can you at least tell me why you're acting so indifferent today?" she asked, tilting her head toward him.
Dylan gripped the steering wheel a little tighter, his thoughts racing. What should I say? When will she finally accept my confession? I just want to kiss her...
After a moment, he sighed, his voice softer than before. "Sorry for this... I—okay. Today is my friend's birthday."
Ember tilted her head, curiosity shining in her eyes. "Do I know him?"
Dylan nodded. "He's Emir."
A flicker of realization crossed Ember's face. "Oh! Dylan, I'm so sorry! I forgot it's Emir. So... are you surprising him?" she asked, hoping to lighten the mood.
A hint of a smile played on Dylan's lips. "Yes, the surprise is ready, but the chief guest isn't ready yet."
Ember frowned slightly. "What happened? Emir doesn't want to celebrate?"
Dylan simply hummed in response, offering no further explanation.
"Let me talk to him," Ember offered, reaching for her phone.
Dylan's eyes narrowed as he turned to her. "You want to convince another man in front of your man?"
Ember smirked, feigning innocence. "My man? Who?"
Dylan leaned in, his gaze darkening with something unreadable. "Let me tell you," he murmured, his voice husky.
Ember's breath hitched as he closed the distance between them. "What are you doing?" she whispered, her heart pounding.
Without another word, Dylan planted a soft, lingering kiss on her cheek. A shiver ran down her spine.
"Stop... kiss me," she whispered, unable to fight the magnetic pull between them.
Dylan didn't hesitate. This time, his lips claimed hers, his kiss demanding, almost possessive. "Now, tell me, who is your man?" he murmured against her lips.
Ember felt her knees go weak, completely lost in the moment. "Hm..." was all she could manage.
Suddenly, the car rolled to a stop.
"We've reached," Dylan announced, pulling away with a smirk.
Ember blinked, dazed, her lips still tingling. "My man is you," she finally confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.
Dylan grinned, satisfied with her answer.
Still catching her breath, Ember glanced around. "Why are we here?"
Dylan unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to her. "Let's go shopping."
Ember raised an eyebrow, surprised. "You're the only man I know who actually likes shopping."
Dylan chuckled. "If my girlfriend doesn't like shopping, then I need to make sure she looks absolutely adorable at the party."
A warm sensation spread through Ember's chest. His words made her feel cherished, special.
"Hm," she murmured, feeling more at ease.
Dylan then reached for her hand. "Let's eat first. We skipped breakfast, and I know you're hungry."
Ember's stomach betrayed her with a soft growl, making Dylan laugh.
"Okay," she agreed with a sheepish smile, letting him lead the way.
At the restaurant,
Dylan handed Ember a menu, and after a quick glance, they ended up ordering the same dish.
"Here you go. Eat first," he said, gently patting her head.
Ember smiled and began eating, but after a few bites, she looked up at him hesitantly. "Dylan, can I tell you something?"
Dylan immediately noticed the uncertainty in her voice. His gaze softened. "What happened?"
"Nothing... It's just... This is the first time someone has treated me like this," Ember admitted, a soft blush rising to her cheeks.
Dylan chuckled, shaking his head. "You're looking too cute right now. I will always treat you like a queen. So… do you want to be my queen?"
Ember's heart skipped a beat. The warmth in his eyes, the sincerity in his words—it made her feel special in a way she had never felt before.
"I like you, Dylan. Thank you for treating me like this," she whispered.
Dylan leaned in slightly, his voice gentle yet firm. "But I love you."
A flutter of emotions filled Ember's chest, leaving her momentarily speechless. Before she could respond, Dylan smiled and said, "Let's go shopping."
At the Boutique
Ember tugged at Dylan's hand, pulling him toward the racks of dresses. "Come on, Dylan!"
"I'm coming," he replied, amused by her excitement.
As she flipped through the clothes, she suddenly turned to him. "So, tell me, what should I buy? This is my first time going to a party."
Dylan froze mid-step, staring at her. "What? You've never been to a party? In the real world?" His surprise was evident.
Ember nodded. "Yes. It's not that my parents restricted me… I just don't like parties either."
Dylan smirked. "After attending this one, you'll love parties."
Ember tilted her head, skeptical but intrigued. "We'll see," she said, feeling a growing excitement.
They continued strolling through the shop, but Dylan soon noticed Ember's hesitation.
"Why aren't you picking anything?" he asked.
Ember sighed. "Because you don't like anything I choose." A hint of frustration laced her voice.
Dylan raised an eyebrow. "Okay, but you've been selecting casual outfits. They're nice, but not exactly party-appropriate."
Ember crossed her arms. "Then what kind of dress do you prefer?"
Dylan smirked, taking her hand. "Let's change the shop."
Ember glanced up at him and, after a moment, nodded. "Okay."
With his fingers still intertwined with hers, Dylan led her toward another boutique, determined to find the perfect dress for her.
At another boutique, the store attendant greeted them with a polite smile.
"Welcome, sir."
Dylan nodded and gestured toward Ember. "Miss, show my girlfriend the newest collection of this year."
"Of course, sir," the attendant replied before leading Ember toward the display.
Dylan turned to her. "You choose. I have to make a call."
Ember nodded. "Okay," she said, turning her attention to the dresses.
As she browsed through the racks, time seemed to stretch. Minutes passed, and Ember found herself growing impatient. She glanced around. "Where is he? Is it taking too long? Who is he talking to?"
Just as she was about to pull out her phone, a hand patted her back, making her jump.
"Who?" Dylan asked playfully, smirking.
Ember spun around, pressing a hand to her chest. "You scared me to death!" she scolded.
Dylan chuckled. "Who else were you expecting?"
"No one..." she muttered, trying to compose herself. Quickly, she held up a few dresses. "So, what do you think? Which one should I choose?"
Dylan examined the options and pointed at three. "This one, this one… and this one."
"Did you try any of them on?" he asked.
Ember hesitated before admitting, "Actually, I was waiting for you."
Dylan's lips curled into a teasing smirk. "Really? Ah-ho! Do you really miss me that much?"
Ember rolled her eyes. "Who misses you? I just needed your opinion, that's why I waited," she huffed, crossing her arms.
Dylan clutched his chest dramatically. "Oh! That hurts."
She leaned in, her lips close to his ear, and whispered, "Actually… what you said is true. I did miss you."
Before Dylan could react, she grinned and turned away. "I'm going to change. Wait for me..."
In the Fitting Room
Moments later, Ember pulled back the curtain and stepped out.
"So? Tell me, how does this look?" she asked, twirling slightly.
Dylan's thoughts raced the moment his eyes landed on her.
"Damn… she looks too hot in this dress. If anyone sees her like this, they'll fall for her."
Without thinking, Dylan suddenly blurted out, "No! Just go and change!"
Ember frowned, startled by his outburst. "Why are you shouting? If you don't like it, just say so. I'll change," she muttered, a little hurt.
One Hour Later,
Ember let out a frustrated sigh, folding her arms.
"Dylan, I'm going back home. You don't like any dress!"
Dylan, lost in his thoughts, couldn't understand why she kept picking such revealing outfits. "She looks so sexy in everything… Doesn't she like wearing more covered dresses? Why is she choosing such bold ones?"
Finally, he exhaled and said, "Let me pick something."
Ember gave him an exasperated look before sighing. "Okay."
A bit relieved, she watched as Dylan moved through the racks, determined to find the perfect dress for her.
After some time, Dylan handed Ember a dress.
"Wear this."
Ember took it from him, nodding. "Okay."
A few moments later, she stepped out of the fitting room. "So, how is this?"
She was breathtaking. The dark green velvet gown draped elegantly over her figure, exuding sophistication and grace. The off-the-shoulder neckline highlighted her delicate collarbones, while the fitted bodice accentuated her slender waist before flowing into a regal A-line skirt. The deep, rich green complemented her presence perfectly, making her look like she had stepped out of a dream. A delicate choker adorned her neck, adding a touch of refined charm.
Dylan's gaze lingered on her before he turned to the store attendant. "I think this dress is covering her whole body," the attendant observed.
Ember glanced down at herself and nodded. "Yes, you're right."
Dylan gave her a satisfied smile. "I think this is the one. Pack it."
In his mind, he couldn't help but admire how stunning she had looked in every outfit she tried on, but this one… This one covered her completely, and for some reason, that made him feel at ease.
At the Counter,
Ember noticed Dylan was lost in thought.
"What are you thinking, Dylan?" she asked curiously.
He shook off his thoughts and handed her the car keys. "Let's go. You go and sit in the car. I'll pay the bill."
She hesitated for a second before nodding. "Okay. Come fast."
As she left, Dylan turned back to the attendant, who handed him the bill.
"Sir, here is your total."
Dylan pulled out his card but then added, "Pack all the clothes she tried on."
The attendant's eyes widened slightly. "All of them, sir?"
Dylan smirked, already imagining Ember wearing those dresses—only for him. "Yes, all of them."
As the attendant packed the dresses, she hesitated before asking shyly, "Sir, can you give me your autograph?"
Dylan nodded, scribbling his name on a notepad.
"Thank you, sir," she said, handing him the bags.
Outside the Store,
Just as Dylan was about to leave, he noticed Ember peeking in from the entrance.
"What happened? Why are you peeking?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Ember huffed. "I was just checking. You were taking too long."
Dylan rolled his eyes. "I told you to sit in the car."
She smiled mischievously. "Okay, okay, you're here now. Let's go."
Dylan shook his head with amusement as they walked toward the car together.
As they made their way to the parking lot, Dylan was engrossed in a phone call.
Ember sighed to herself, "He's always busy on his phone."
Just as she was about to walk ahead, something caught her eye—a dress displayed in a boutique window. It looked like it had been crafted in heaven.
Her breath hitched. "Oh my… It's so beautiful!"
Dylan, noticing that she had stopped, turned toward her. "Hey, why did you stop?"
Ember turned to him with wide, pleading eyes. "Dylan..."
He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What happened? And why do you suddenly look even more attractive than before?"
Ember pointed toward the dress, her voice filled with longing. "Can you buy me this dress, please? I want it so badly. Please!"
Dylan smirked, crossing his arms. "So, a dress has the power to make you this desperate? You're even making puppy eyes for it?" He leaned closer, his voice teasing. "Tell me, what do I get in return for this dress?"
Without a second thought, Ember tiptoed and pressed a soft kiss against his lips.
Dylan froze.
Ember pulled away slightly, looking up at him with innocent eyes. "Mm… so, now can you?"
Dylan was speechless for a moment, staring at her in shock.
Sensing his hesitation, Ember whispered sweetly, "Baby, please."
A slow smile spread across Dylan's face. "Let's go."
"Yes!" Ember squealed in excitement.
The dress was nothing short of breathtaking—a stunning off-the-shoulder satin gown in a bold, rich magenta shade. Its structured bodice hugged the torso perfectly, accentuating the waistline, while the off-the-shoulder neckline draped elegantly over the arms, adding a touch of romance and sophistication. The smooth, lustrous fabric cascaded into a flowing skirt with an asymmetrical hemline, offering a glimpse of her legs for a subtly alluring effect. Gentle folds and delicate draping enhanced the luxurious appeal, making it the perfect choice for an elegant evening.
After purchasing the dress, Ember couldn't contain her excitement.
"Dylan, I'll wear this dress for you at home, okay?" she said, her voice brimming with happiness.
Dylan chuckled, his gaze softening. "Okay."
In his mind, he couldn't help but admire how adorable she was when she pleaded with him. He also realized something—Ember had started relying on him for the things she wanted, and that thought made him unbelievably happy.
Ember was still beaming with excitement as they finally reached the parking lot.