Gray spent the whole day being happy about the result of his investment. When school ended and he picked up Lily from the gates, she ran into his arms as usual. But this time Gray swept her up and spun her around playfully."Whoa! What's gotten into you, brother?" Lily giggled, surprised by the sudden energy."Just feeling good today," Gray said with a grin as he set her down and ruffled her hair. "So, what do you want to eat tonight? Your pick."Lily's eyes widened. "Really? You're not gonna say we should just eat at home again?""Nope. Anything you want."Her face lit up like a light bulb."Then fried chicken! With cheese powder! Lots of it!" Lily giggled as she raised her hand in excitement."Alright then." Gray pulled out his phone to find the nearest location of Lily's favorite chicken place.After their meal, they stopped by a nearby convenience store. Gray told her to pick out snacks she liked, and she took it like a mini shopping spree.Lily picked out all kinds of things. Can

Chloe froze completely at the question. Her pen hovered above the paper, and her breath caught slightly in her throat.She wasn't expecting it at all.Dinner?She could barely move as her eyes stayed fixed on Gray. He looked casual about it, as if he just asked if she wanted coffee.But for some reason, the question made her heart race."I, uh..." She opened her mouth but no words came out right away.Gray tilted his head, waiting. He even doubted if it was the right choice."I mean, yeah. Sure." Chloe finally managed to say, hoping her voice didn't sound as awkward as she felt. "Dinner sounds good."Gray smiled lightly, genuinely pleased."Great. After your session today, I'll come back around seven?" he asked casually, like this was the most normal thing in the world."Okay. That works." Chloe nodded quickly."Alright. Finish your task first, then." Gray gave Chloe one last smile before he went back and focused on what he was doing earlier.Chloe, on the other hand, had a hard time

It took them nearly an hour to arrive at the restaurant Gray had chosen. They used one of the Davenport family's cars. Partly because Gray didn't own one, but mostly because Chloe's security was still a top priority.She wasn't allowed to go anywhere without any of her assigned guards lurking nearby. Which was understandable, especially with how wealthy her family was.The restaurant was nestled in a quiet corner of the city. It didn't appear to be well-known but still modest looking in its own right. A touch of class without too much fancy. This... would do.Gray had once worked there, years ago, scrubbing dishes in the back kitchen. The owners would sometimes offer him free food and allow him to take leftovers, knowing his situation.The food there had always been incredible. Rich flavors, handmade pasta, and sauces simmered for hours by skilled chefs.So he never understood why the place never took off.Maybe it was the location? Poor marketing? Or maybe people just overlooked it b

Click.Lawrence blinked before grinning."That was perfect!" he announced like he just captured a shot worthy of a magazine cover. "Absolutely perfect." He silently celebrated.On the other hand, Gray sat motionless. His cheek tingled from the kiss. Slowly, he turned his head to Chloe, his eyes wide."Uh...what was that?"Chloe looked completely unbothered, still smiling as she reached for her wine."What? It's good for the promo. It sells the whole date night vibe, right?" she said playfully, echoing Lawrence's earlier words."Exactly!" Lawrence added, already backing away as he flicked through the pictures. "Romance, pasta, and perfectly lit ambience. I should've charged for this shoot. Be thankful it's free.""I see then," Gray mumbled in a low voice, shaking his head in disbelief.Gray watched as Lawrence disappeared toward the counter again, a satisfied grin on his face. It was obvious the man was enjoying himself.Soon after, Lawrence returned carrying two elegant glasses."Enjo

The morning sun rose over the Davenport estate, casting long golden rays across the mansion. Early morning stillness filled the grand house as housekeepers moved quietly through the halls, their footsteps barely audible against the polished marble floors.Chloe didn't sleep.Well, she did, but barely.Her thoughts circled Gray the whole night. Every conversation they had. The way he made her want to be better without making her feel small.Now, as dawn broke, she stood outside her father's study door. The heavy oak seemed more imposing than usual. She took a deep breath and brushed her fingers against her phone. She'd just sent Gray a message asking if they could push their session back an hour.Her gaze returned to the door. Another deep breath. Her hand trembled slightly as she raised it. She knocked gently."Come in," her father's voice echoed from inside.Chloe pushed the door open and stepped through.Jonathan sat behind his massive desk, already dressed in his tailored navy suit