Page 43 of August and the Night

I shake my head, a glint of excitement in my eyes. "Nope, it's a surprise."

Her lips curve into a reluctant smile, a mixture of frustration and curiosity evident in her gaze. "Fine, August. I'll play along."

She heads to freshen up and prepare for our trip, and a torrent of conflicting emotions surges within me.

This trip isn't as innocent as I'm letting on. I'm heading to Miami to meet an acquaintance who has an important position in a very big news channel. I'm going to give him the evidence that I've collected on the Lexingtons for them to be exposed.

I see the irony in bringing her along on a trip that will destroy her family's reputation. But despite my better judgment, I can't leave her alone. I can't fathom leaving her alone in this big house after all that she's been through. Besides, she would think I simply discarded her after taking her virginity.

Layla has felt too unwanted in her life, betrayed by the people closest to her, and while it kills me that I am going to be added to that list soon, I can't stomach making her feel these negative emotions right now, specifically a day after I made love to her.

I brush aside my swirling thoughts as Layla enters the room, a skip in her steps and a radiant smile on her face, vibrating with excitement. She looks at me with those bright eyes, and before I can react, she leans in, pecking me on the lips. It's as if her happiness is contagious, and a smile makes its way to my lips unconsciously.

I hastily get ready after her, and once we're both prepared, we stand side by side, double-checking our bags and travel essentials. And then, as we step out of the door, John is there, just as I had instructed, ready to take us to the airport.

Layla's happiness is clear as she greets him with a bright smile and an embrace. A sense of warmth fills the air as I watch her, a flicker of a smile touching my lips at the genuine connection they share. She's buzzing in her seat on the way to the airport the entire time, and I can't help but find it adorable. When we reach the airport, we say our goodbyes to John and step hand in hand through the airport door.

Inside the bustling terminal, I hand Layla her ticket, a knowing smile on my lips as I watch her gaze settle on the destination: Miami. The spark of realization lights up her eyes, and a joyful squeal escapes her lips.

She hugs me tightly, her excitement radiating through her like a vibrant energy. "Miami! I've always wanted to go there!" she exclaims, her voice filled with glee.

As we approach the gate, the hum of excitement surrounding us is electrifying. I can't help but notice Layla's rapid heartbeat, her excitement so tangible that I can practically hear it.

With a reassuring smile, I guide her towards the airplane, the anticipation building with every step. Once onboard, I help her settle into her first-class seat, ensuring she's comfortable.

I fasten her seatbelt, her gaze meets mine, nervousness clear in her eyes. "This is my first time on a plane," she admits, her voice laced with a hint of uncertainty.

I lean in, my voice a comforting presence in her ear. "Don't worry, Layla. I'm here with you every step of the way. Just relax and enjoy the experience."

Her nerves seem to ease as she nods, offering me a grateful smile. And as the plane taxis down the runway, I can feel her hand trembling in mine. With a reassuring squeeze, I whisper, "It's going to be alright," and she turns to me, her trust in my presence evident.

As the plane lifts off the ground, I watch as exhilaration paints Layla's features. Her fingers tighten around mine, and I can sense her tension giving way to wonder. The cityscape below transforms into a patchwork of lights, and her grip on my hand gradually relaxes.

Throughout the flight, the soothing hum of the engines and the gentle vibrations of the plane seem to have a calming effect on Layla.

As if caught in a cocoon of serenity, she drifts into a peaceful slumber, her breathing steady and even. I watch her with a tender smile, her relaxed form a welcome contrast to the excitement that had filled her just moments before.

Unable to resist, I lean over and place a soft kiss on her hand, the touch gentle and almost reverent. It's a silent gesture, a connection that transcends words, expressing the depth of the emotions I so strongly deny in a single act. She sleeps on, undisturbed, her trust in my presence evident even in her unconscious state.

When the plane descends, I gently wake Layla, her drowsy eyes meeting mine. "We're about to land," I whisper, my voice a warm caress against her ear.

She blinks, momentarily disoriented before realization dawns on her. As the plane touches down, she straightens up in her seat, her excitement rekindling. With a smile, she gazes out of the window, watching as the tarmac rushes by.

After landing, we make our way to a luxurious resort that I own in Miami. The short journey is filled with Layla's curious glances, her amazement evident in her every expression as I tell her about my resort. The moment we arrive, her eyes widen in awe, her lips parting in astonishment at the sheer beauty of the place.

"August, this is... breathtaking," she breathes, her voice filled with wonder as she takes in the lush surroundings and the elegantly designed resort. "Everything you do, you do with such taste.”

A smile makes its way to my face without my permission. No matter how much I deny my feelings for her, I can't deny that I love the way she views me; it makes my chest tingle with pride.

After arriving at the resort, I lead Layla through the grand entrance, the familiar faces of my employees greeting me with nods of respect. With a smile, I introduce Layla as my girlfriend, her presence by my side making my chest swell with possessiveness.

"Hello, everyone," I address my staff, my tone commanding their attention. "Meet Layla, my girlfriend."

Layla greets them with a warm smile, her charm evident as she extends a friendly hand. "Nice to meet you all."

The employees respond with polite smiles and greetings, their professionalism on full display. As we make our way to our designated cabin, Layla's curious gaze takes in the opulent surroundings in a swift glance. I can practically feel the excitement radiating from her as she turns those captivating eyes towards me.

"Can we go for a swim?" she asks, her voice a sweet plea.

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