Lucian took off his coat and covered Eleanor's body with it, holding her by the back as he led her out of the hall amidst whispers. The cool night air enveloped them, a welcome respite from the stifling atmosphere inside.
Eleanor still couldn't understand anything that was going on. Everything seemed like a dream - arguing with a rich guest, being rescued by the most handsome man she'd ever met. The surreal quality of it all left her breathless.
Lucian's grip on her back was gentle, yet reassuring.
As they walked through the garden, the sound of gravel crunching beneath their feet filled the air. The garden was a tranquil oasis, with meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flowers that seemed to bloom in every color of the rainbow. Tall trees, their branches swaying gently in the breeze, provided shelter from the outside world.
To their left, a babbling brook ran through the garden, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the moonlight. The soft gurgle of the water created a soothing melody that seemed to wash away Eleanor's worries.
The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming roses, their delicate petals swaying in the breeze. Nearby, a cluster of lavender plants added their calming fragrance to the mix, creating a heady aroma that seemed to transport Eleanor to a different world.
As they strolled along the winding path, they passed by a variety of flowers, each one more beautiful than the last. There were sunflowers that towered above them, their bright yellow petals shining like miniature suns. Nearby, a patch of delicate daisies danced in the breeze, their white petals and yellow centers creating a cheerful contrast.
The garden's centerpiece was a stunning fountain, its waters cascading down a tiered structure into a large pool. The sound of the water was mesmerizing, and Eleanor found herself drawn to the fountain's beauty.
As Lucian gazed at Eleanor, he was struck by her striking features. She stood beside him, her fiery red hair cascading down her back like a waterfall of flames. The vibrant locks were impossible to miss, even in a crowded room, and Lucian found himself drawn to their fiery intensity.
Eleanor's height was petite, reaching only to his shoulder, but her presence was anything but diminutive. Her slender frame and delicate features belied a strength and resilience that Lucian sensed beneath the surface.
As they walked through the garden, the moonlight dancing across her face, Lucian caught glimpses of her profile. Her nose was small and slightly upturned, giving her an endearing, mischievous look. Her lips were full and inviting, curved into a gentle smile that seemed to hint at secrets.
But it was her scent that truly captivated Lucian. Faint and natural, it wafted around her like a subtle aura, rose-petal sweet and irresistible. Lucian's heightened sense of smell allowed him to perceive the fragrance clearly, and he found himself enthralled by its subtlety.
With each breath, the scent drew him in, tantalizing his senses and making him want to be closer to her. It was as if the fragrance was an extension of Eleanor herself, a reflection of her inner beauty and warmth.
As they stood together, Lucian felt his gaze drifting back to Eleanor's face, tracing the contours of her features, drinking in the radiance of her hair. He was struck by the realization that he wanted to know more about this captivating woman, to unravel the mysteries hidden beneath her fiery locks and rose-petal scent.
Lucian noticed her fascination and smiled.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" he asked.
Eleanor nodded, her eyes still fixed on the fountain.
"I love the way the water seems to come alive," she said.
Lucian chuckled.
"I know what you mean. There's something magical about this garden."
As they stood there, the night air wrapping around them, Eleanor felt an inexplicable connection to Lucian and this enchanting garden.
"Hey, you okay?" Lucian asked, his voice low and soothing.
Eleanor nodded, still dazed.
"Good," Lucian said, his eyes scanning the garden. "I was starting to think I'd have to carry you out of there."
Eleanor laughed, feeling a bit more grounded.
"Thanks for the rescue," she said, smiling up at Lucian.
Lucian shrugged.
"No problem. I figured someone should save you from Penelope's wrath."
As they strolled through the garden, the moonlight casting an ethereal glow, Eleanor felt at ease with Lucian. His laid-back demeanor put her at ease.
"What's your story, " Lucian asked, his gaze drifting to hers.
Eleanor hesitated.
"Just working," she replied, leaving out the details.
Lucian raised an eyebrow.
"Ah, a woman of mystery."
Eleanor chuckled.
"Hardly."
Lucian grinned.
"I think you're more interesting than you let on."
Eleanor's cheeks flushed.
"Thanks."
As they walked, the silence between them was comfortable. Lucian didn't seem to feel the need to fill the void with unnecessary conversation.
They reached a serene lake, its surface reflecting the stars above. Lucian released Eleanor's back, and she turned to face him.
"Thanks again." Eleanor said, her voice sincere.
Lucian smiled.
"No problem. Just be careful around Penelope."
Eleanor nodded.
"I will."
Lucian's gaze lingered on hers.
"You know, for someone who just got rescued, you're surprisingly calm."
Eleanor shrugged.
"I guess I'm just used to unexpected situations."
Lucian's eyes sparkled.
"I think you're more resilient than you give yourself credit for."
As they stood there, the night air wrapping around them, Eleanor felt an inexplicable connection to Lucian.
The sharp ringing of Eleanor's phone broke the spell. She pulled it out, seeing Mrs. Williams' name on the screen.
"Sorry, I have to go," Eleanor said, feeling a pang of disappointment.
Lucian nodded.
"It was nice meeting you."
Eleanor smiled.
"Likewise."
As she turned to leave, Lucian called out.
"Hey?"
"Yes?"
"Keep the coat. You look better in it than I do."
Eleanor laughed.
"Thanks."
As she turned to leave, she paused.
By the way, I'm Eleanor Roosevelt.
He smiled.
" I'll ask for your name if we meet again.
With a final glance at Lucian, Eleanor disappeared into the night.
Lucian watched her go, a small smile playing on his lips.
"Don't worry, Eleanor," he whispered to himself. "We'll meet again."