The Attraction

Third Person POV

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“Now, can you please get me something I could wear to bed, I am admittedly uncomfortable in these” Xander grumbled out as he eyed the clothing he was putting on as though it hadn’t offered him dignity for hours.

Rufina narrowed her eyes at him, perhaps trying to see if he could fit into any of her clothings, “I’d get you something, in the meantime, the room you showered is where you’d stay the night” she announced

As if on cue he followed her upstairs and into the room.

Xander came out of the bathroom and there he saw a pj that wasn’t there before on the bed.

Did she come in when I was taking a shower? he wondered.

He walked to the edge of the bed and picked up the material. They were a classic set of unisex pajamas, simple yet stylish, exuding a mature elegance. He picked it up, the pajamas were made of soft, breathable cotton, perfect for a comfortable night's sleep. He needed it.

The top was a button-down shirt in a deep, rich navy blue, with white piping along the edges and a single breast pocket. It had a timeless appeal, the kind of nightwear that looked sophisticated yet relaxed. The sleeves were a bit short for Xander's broad shoulders and long arms, ending just below his elbow, but it added a casual charm to his appearance.

The matching pants were equally classic, with a drawstring waist for adjustable comfort. They were slightly too short for his long legs, ending just below his knees like three quarters would, but the fit was otherwise comfortable. The loose, relaxed cut allowed for easy movement, the soft fabric draping nicely over his form.

The pajamas had an understated elegance, the kind that suited both men and women.

He slipped it on and her soft smell immediately engulfed him and that’s when he knew that it might not fit right but it absolutely smells right.

“First off, do you even have a… job?" that was the first question Rufina sent towards the smiling Xander when she heard his steps coming down the stairs.

‘She’s been thinking about me’ Xander smirked.

Rufina grew suspicious when Xander remained silent and only taking his seat so she decided to add, “Cause the rent for this condo is quite─” he cut her off, “On the high class?” he asked.

“Well not exactly, but without a job I can’t risk leasing this place with you” she explained as the TV came on.

“I thought we were supposed to talk about this in the morning” Xander reminded her

Rufina nodded, “Yeah, but I like dealing with problems when I have a chance”

“Okay, I do have a job, but I took a month's leave, I have two weeks left," he explained.

"Why did you take a leave?" she asked before she could stop herself.

"Personal… issues?" he asked rhetorically, not as an answer.

She nodded, deciding it best that she respect his privacy, “We’d talk tomorrow, it's movie time for me” she said again making him smile in understanding, she took the remote from the table and picked a movie.

Minutes into the movie, Rufina glanced at Xander who suspiciously seemed very invested in the movie, she sighed unconsciously changing her seating position to a comfortable one where she could watch him.

‘The idea that handsome men can't be bad people applies to me, it appears.’ she mused because this man was in her house and she wasn’t even uncomfortable.

He was just a bit too good looking for her liking. He would distract her from her primary goal: his eyes alone were enough to lose her focus but coupled with that personality? She’s keeping this roommate.

Oh lord, but look at him, she pouted to herself.

The pajamas almost fit perfectly but his bulging arm tightens and attempts to flex from beneath the sleeves proving how impossible fitting in it can be.

She’d quickly searched her closet for something neutral and this deep navy color and crisp white piping gave him a polished look, while the comfortable fit made them ideal for unwinding after a long day. Despite being a bit too small for Xander, he wore them with an air of casual confidence, the slightly oversized look adding to his laid-back charm.

Xander stood up suddenly to get a refil of water, She couldn't help but notice how the mature style of the pajamas suited him, enhancing his already striking appearance. As he walked back away from the fridge, adjusting the drawstring of the pants, she felt a flutter of unexpected attraction. The sight of him in her pajamas, combined with his relaxed demeanor, made her see him in a new, intriguing light.

‘There’s nothing to hate here,’ Xander mused as he pretended to not feel Rufina’s gaze on him.

Rufina's condo is located in a sleek, modern building in the heart of River North. The building itself is a testament to contemporary architecture, with clean lines, glass facades, and a welcoming lobby that exudes sophistication. It features amenities such as a fitness center, rooftop terrace with stunning city views, and secure access.

The condo is situated on a quiet, tree-lined street, just a short walk away from the hustle and bustle of North Clark Street and Hubbard Street, where some of the city's best dining and entertainment options can be found. The area is clean, well-maintained, and exudes a sense of safety and community.

Something Xander needs.

Large windows in the condo offer views of the cityscape, with the Chicago River visible in the distance. The neighborhood itself is a blend of historic warehouses converted into lofts and galleries, alongside new high-rise apartments and condos. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist seamlessly, providing a rich, engaging backdrop for Rufina's and Xander's unfolding story.

He’s definitely staying but first he’d glance at the girl that’s watching him.