Amara felt so weak, her body still trembling softly after the love they had just made. She lay against Damian's chest, her breaths shallow and uneven as he leaned closer and whispered against her ear, his voice low and husky, "Let's bathe together, baby, so we can prepare for the anniversary."
She nodded, too overwhelmed to find words, and Damian pressed a kiss to her temple before carefully guiding her up. His touch was gentle, as though he was afraid of hurting her after their first time. He ushered her toward the bathroom, and with a soft smile, he told her to go in first while he quickly changed the bedsheets. Amara's heart warmed at his thoughtfulness-every detail, every gesture showed how much he cared.
When Damian finally joined her in the bathroom, she felt shy at first, but the tenderness in his eyes melted her hesitation. He slid his arms around her from behind, pulling her closer under the warm water, and together they bathed, laughing softly as water ran down their bodies. He placed small kisses on her shoulder, making her cheeks flush red, but he kept it sweet, as if reminding her that she belonged to him now.
Afterward, they stepped out wrapped in towels, the steam following them into the room. Damian's phone suddenly buzzed on the table. He answered quickly, his expression turning serious, and after a brief exchange, he began putting on his clothes in a rush. Amara watched him curiously, but before she could ask, he returned holding a shopping bag.
He set it down gently in front of her and smiled. "This is for you," he said softly.
Amara blinked in surprise, her heart skipping. Inside the bag was a gorgeous evening dress and matching heels. Her mouth fell open. "Damian..." she whispered, almost too stunned to speak.
He simply smirked and leaned down to kiss her forehead. "Go and change, baby. I want you to look like the queen you are tonight."
With her heart swelling, she hugged him tightly. "Thank you, Damian... thank you so much."
Amara carried the dress to her room, her excitement bubbling. She carefully rubbed lotion into her skin, savoring the softness. Then she slipped into the gown-it was an armless floating design that hugged her figure before sliding freely down one side of her leg. The fabric shimmered beautifully under the light, and she gasped at how stunning it looked on her.
She applied a little makeup, just enough to enhance her natural beauty, and brushed her hair until it fell perfectly over her shoulders. Sliding into the heels Damian had chosen for her, she admired herself in the mirror for a moment. She felt beautiful, elegant, like a different version of herself. Finally, she sprayed her perfume, picked up her handbag, and took a deep breath before stepping out.
Damian was already waiting outside at the car park, standing tall and composed, adjusting the cuff of his suit. He looked breathtakingly handsome, his sharp features and confident posture making him look like he had just stepped out of a magazine.
When his eyes landed on her, he froze. His lips parted slightly in shock, and his gaze softened as though he couldn't believe what he was seeing. "Wow... baby, you look so beautiful," he said in awe, his voice hushed but filled with admiration.
Amara blushed deeply, her cheeks burning at the way he stared at her. "Thanks, baby," she whispered shyly, before letting her eyes roam over him. Her lips curved into a smile. "But you're not looking bad yourself... you look so handsome."
Damian chuckled, his eyes never leaving her. "Really?" he teased, raising a brow.
She laughed softly, and the sound eased the air between them. Together, they both chuckled, sharing that warm, private joy only they understood. Then Damian opened the car door for her, and once she was settled, he joined her inside. With one last look at her, his lips curling into a smile, he started the car, and they drove off toward the anniversary venue, side by side, hearts beating as one.
The drive to the anniversary venue felt almost magical. The city lights danced against the car windows, casting a soft glow inside. I sat beside Damian, my fingers resting gently in his, and for the first time, I felt a calmness within me. After everything that had happened earlier, after the vulnerability we had shared, this moment felt like the beginning of something real.
Every now and then, Damian's eyes left the road to steal glances at me. His lips curved into the faintest smile, as though he couldn't quite believe I was sitting there with him. "You know," he said softly, giving my hand a squeeze, "tonight, everyone will be watching us. I want you to feel confident, Amara. You look breathtaking, and I'm proud to have you by my side."
My heart fluttered at his words. I looked out the window for a moment, hiding my blush, but his grip on my hand pulled me back to him. "Thank you, Damian," I whispered, my voice barely above the hum of the engine. "I'll try not to be nervous."
He chuckled, low and warm. "Don't try. Just be yourself. That's more than enough."
Soon, the car rolled into the grand driveway of the venue. The mansion-like hall stood tall and glowing with golden lights that spilled across the marble steps. Luxurious cars lined the entrance, and elegantly dressed guests walked in, their laughter and chatter filling the night air.
As Damian parked, he turned to me once more. His eyes swept over me in admiration, and then he leaned in, brushing his lips against mine in a gentle kiss. "Ready?" he asked, his tone both reassuring and protective.
I nodded, though my stomach fluttered with nerves. When we stepped out of the car, the cool evening breeze brushed against my skin, carrying with it the faint scent of roses from the garden nearby. Damian came around to my side, offering his hand like the perfect gentleman he was. I placed my hand in his, and together we walked up the steps, the sound of our footsteps echoing softly against the marble.
As we approached the entrance, I could feel the eyes of people turning toward us. The whispers began almost immediately, curious glances darting between Damian and me. He straightened his posture, exuding quiet confidence, and pulled me just a little closer, his hand resting protectively at the small of my back.
Inside, the hall was breathtaking. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, scattering light across the polished floors. Tables were adorned with white roses and golden trimmings, and the soft sound of a live orchestra played in the background. Everything screamed elegance, wealth, and power.
Damian bent his head slightly, his lips close to my ear. "Remember, Amara, this is just a room full of people. Nothing more. Tonight, it's just you and me." His words wrapped around me like a shield, giving me strength.
I smiled up at him, whispering back, "As long as you're by my side, I'll be fine."
And just like that, we stepped into the crowd, ready to face the night together.