He was waiting impatiently at the bottom of the grand staircase, pacing slightly as he checked his watch.
The faint sound of heels clicking against the marble floors made him look up, and when she stepped out, his breath caught in his throat.
She was stunning.
The cream suit hugged her figure elegantly, exuding class and sophistication.
Her Cesare Santorini heels added an extra touch of luxury, while the delicate purse in her hands complemented the ensemble perfectly.
Her makeup was light, accentuating her natural beauty, and her long hair cascaded in soft waves down her back, catching the soft morning light.
For a moment, he forgot why he was waiting. Then, snapping out of his daze, he cleared his throat. "Hey, we're going to be late on the first day. That's a terrible impression," he said, his voice sterner than he intended.
She hesitated at the bottom of the stairs, her fingers nervously fidgeting with the strap of her purse. "Do I look okay?" she asked, her voice small and uncertain.
He tried to suppress a smile at how endearing her nerves made her seem. "You look... alive, at least," he said dryly, though the humor in his tone was unmistakable.
Her eyes narrowed, and with a swift motion, she smacked him on the arm with her purse. "Sorry I asked," she snapped, though her cheeks flushed with a hint of color.
He laughed, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright, I take it back. You look fine. Happy?"
She huffed, crossing her arms before he motioned toward the door. "Let's go, Your Highness," he teased with a smirk.
Her glare could've frozen fire, but as she walked past him, he caught himself glancing at her again, unable to stop the corners of his mouth from curving up.