TALK OF ARRIVAL (II)

"Huh?" Serena gasped.

Darius had a smug smile on his face, his eyes glinting with mischief. Serena raised a brow, her confusion painting a clear question across her features. What?

"You heard me…I wanted to spend my afternoon with you," Darius said, lips twitching into a crooked smile. "Is it that hard to believe?"

"Well…" Serena tilted her head, pretending to give the question serious thought. Her finger tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Hm, I find it very hard to believe, even."

Darius let out a theatrical sigh and muttered something under his breath. Before she could blink, a firm arm looped around her waist, dragging her against his chest in one smooth motion. Serena gasped, wide-eyed, her cheek brushing the soft fabric of his shirt. Her eyes widened and she looked up to catch Darius' triumphant smile. 

"How about now?" He asked.