She probably doesn’t understand a word of what I’m saying. I don’t understand this thing I feel for Melody either, lust, certainly, but what’s this possessive feeling?
I feel like I’d do anything to protect her against the world. And it hasn’t even been a day.
“You should get back to sleep now,” I say to June, feeling a little guilty for keeping her up when my thoughts are not even sorted out yet. “You’ve got an early start in the morning. Keep me up-to-date on your activities in Barcelona.”
“Yes, boss,” June replies and drops the call.
This time, I couldn’t resist glancing at the clock again. It’s been thirty minutes since I last checked.
My guts twist anxiously at the implication of each passing second without her appearance.
What if I scared her away with my offer?
Suddenly, there’s a curt knock at the door.
My heart slams hard against my chest, surprising even me.
I take a deep breath and walk calmly toward the door, ignoring the inconsistent thudding of my heart. I unlock the door and pull it open to reveal Melody.
A slow smile spreads on my face as my heart swells up with an indescribable emotion.
“You came,” I say after a long, tense second of silence.
Melody lowers her gaze, an adorable blush creeping up her cheeks.
“Yes,” she replies, glancing up briefly at me. “I did promise to do anything.”
* * *
I pause for a second, wondering where to set up my canvas.
I decided to transform this particular room into a temporary studio because it has the best lighting, but I can’t seem to decide the best place to set up my easel.
It’s funny how I’m just now realizing June’s work to make everything perfect. She’s worked efficiently for so many years that I’ve gotten used to the ease of perfection.
While I can’t deny the excitement that comes with doing these things by myself, it also makes me appreciate her even more. I wonder if part of this fast-spreading excitement I feel is due to the fact that I’ll spend a good part of my evenings with Melody.
Earlier today, before leaving for work, she calmly informed me that she could only model for me between five and eight at night because she has to work and then study at night.
I wonder when she gets to go out and have fun with friends if all she does is work and study.
Anyway, there’s plenty of time to learn more about her and make her have fun.
The whooshing sound of the door being pushed open draws my attention, and I turn to look in the direction of the door.
Melody walks into the room, and my breath seizes for a second.
I can’t stop staring at her.
She’s irresistibly beautiful, and she doesn’t know it.
She stops hesitantly a few feet away from me, refusing to meet my gaze. Her cheeks are almost the color of her beautiful long hair, a beautiful blazing red shade that makes my blood roar with desire.
The dress is perfect.
I immediately knew after I saw the dress at the store that it’d look gorgeous on her, but she still takes my breath away.
The white silk dress fits perfectly, seductively hugging her gorgeous curves; its color also compliments the creamy shade of her perfectly tanned skin. Her fire-red hair is a beautiful contrast against the plain white dress which she’s successfully made into a masterpiece.