The First Date

after few moments later woman appeared at the garden with two glasses of champagne.

Chloe Lane: How was it then?

Nathaniel: Chloe Lane my Love have I ever missed my target, she fell for me and very soon. I will accomplish my task

Nathaniel: She is stupid, she fell for a stranger and believed his words, very soon I will accomplish my task

Chloe: You are so cunning to the beginning of our succes

They smiled at each ocher and clicked their glass, Then Nathaniel leaned in and kissed her

They smiled at each ocher and clicked their glass

in the car

On the ride home, Lucy shared her encounter with Nathaniel. "He's charming, and he said he owns companies himself, not inherited from his family," she said, her voice tinged with excitement.

James, however, grew tense. "Nathaniel?" he repeated, masking his concern. "Just... be careful, Lucy."

"Why? He seemed nice," she replied, confused.

James forced a smile. "Nothing. Just take it slow."

She took on her phone and showed the picture

Lucy: isn't he handsome, Cassie

Cassie looked at him then she was stunned because she has heard about him

Cassie: oh, I think I prefer Sebastian he is not even close to Sebastian handsomeness'.

Lucy: I know but Nathan has already confessed to me

James: Try your best to stay away from Nathaniel don't get too attached to him

but why brother she cried

James: oh no I was just telling you

dinner time. Lucy told her parents everything about her day,

But deep down, James, Cassie and her parents knew who Nathaniel really was—a man infamous for exploiting wealthy families using their girls and leaving destruction in his wake.

The next morning

Lucy woke up to the gentle warmth of the sun streaming through her bedroom window. Her phone read 10:02 AM. It wasn't early, but it wasn't late enough to feel lazy. With a stretch and a satisfied sigh, she rolled out of bed, her silk pajamas rustling softly as she padded to the bathroom.

Breakfast with her family was a lively affair. The dining table was set with fresh fruit, eggs, toast, and coffee. James sipped his black coffee while glancing at his phone, and Cassie chattered animatedly about her latest project.

"Big plans today, Lucy?" James asked, looking up briefly.

Lucy smiled, brushing her hair over her shoulder. "A date, actually."

Cassie's fork paused mid-air. "A date? With who?"

"Nathaniel," Lucy said casually, though the faint blush on her cheeks betrayed her excitement.

"Oh, the guy from the party?" Cassie grinned. "He seemed nice."

James didn't comment, though his expression tightened. Lucy noticed but chose not to press him.

After breakfast, Lucy took her time getting ready. She chose a pale pink sundress with delicate lace details, pairing it with strappy sandals and a light jacket. Her hair fell in loose waves, and her makeup was minimal but glowing.

As she stepped out of the house and headed toward her car, she stopped in her tracks. Nathaniel was there, leaning casually against his sleek black car, holding a bouquet of sunflowers and white roses.

"Surprise," he said with a charming smile, stepping forward. "I thought I'd pick you up."

Lucy blinked in surprise, then smiled. "You didn't have to, but this is… sweet."

He handed her the flowers, his gaze soft. "I wanted to. You deserve more than just a casual 'meet you there.'"

Lucy laughed lightly and accepted the flowers. "Thank you. Let me put these in water real quick."

She dashed back inside, placed the bouquet in a vase, and returned to Nathaniel's car. He opened the passenger door for her with a gentlemanly flair before sliding into the driver's seat.

"So, where are we going?" Lucy asked, glancing at him.

"It's a surprise," Nathaniel replied, grinning.

The Date

Their first stop was a cozy café tucked away in the city, its walls adorned with artwork and shelves filled with books. Nathaniel ordered an espresso, while Lucy chose a vanilla latte.

Over coffee, they chatted about everything and nothing.

By the way Nathaniel are you a Christian ?

Well I am,

"Oh That's nice what is your favorite story from the bible

I really Love the one of Moses" said Lucy happily

Well we have the same taste

"What's your favorite movie?" Lucy asked, stirring her latte.

Nathaniel leaned back in his chair, pretending to think. "I'd say Mafia movies. It's a classic."

Lucy's eyes lit up. "No way! That's one of my favorites, too."

He smiled, though his interest seemed exaggerated. "Really? What a coincidence."

Lucy laughed. "Yeah, but I also love Vincenzo. I could watch it a hundred times."

"Then I'll have to watch it," Nathaniel said, his tone earnest. "Anything you like, I'll like."

Their next stop was a botanical garden, where they wandered through paths lined with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.

"This place is beautiful," Lucy said, stopping to admire a cluster of orchids.

"Not as beautiful as you," Nathaniel said smoothly, causing Lucy to laugh and playfully nudge him.

They ended the date at a quaint ice cream parlor, sharing stories over cones of chocolate and strawberry ice cream.

"I think I could live on ice cream," Lucy said, savoring a bite.

"Then I'll make sure you never run out," Nathaniel replied, his tone playful yet sincere.

Back Home

As Nathaniel drove her home, Lucy couldn't stop smiling. The day had been unexpectedly wonderful. When they reached her gate, he stepped out to open her door.

"Thank you, Nathaniel," she said, her voice warm.

"Anytime, Lucy," he replied, his smile lingering as he watched her walk up the driveway.

Once inside, Lucy immediately called Cassie.

"Cass, it was amazing," she gushed. "He's so kind and thoughtful. He wants to take me out again tomorrow, but I told him I have a modeling shoot."

"And what did he say?" Cassie asked, intrigued.

"He said he'd take me there himself," Lucy said, still grinning.

Cassie chuckled. "He's definitely pulling out all the stops. Be careful, though."

"I will," Lucy promised, though her heart was already fluttering at the thought of seeing Nathaniel again.

Nathaniel's Call

Later that evening, Nathaniel reclined on his leather couch, a glass of wine in hand. His phone buzzed, and he answered with a smirk.

"Chloe," he said smoothly.

"How was your little date?" Chloe's voice dripped with sarcasm.

"Better than expected," Nathaniel replied. "She's quite something, isn't she? So trusting, so full of herself. She told me all about her family's downfall."

"Did she now?" Chloe said, amusement evident in her tone.

Nathaniel chuckled. "It's almost too easy. She's already letting her guard down. Just give me time, Chloe. I'll get what we need."

"Good," Chloe said. "Don't forget what's at stake."

Nathaniel ended the call, his smile fading as he stared into his glass. The game was on, and Lucy Sinclair was the pawn.