Chapter Text
The film industry was booming in Vancouver in the 2000s, attracting actors and creatives from all over the world to its lush, forested cityscape. The city buzzed with the excitement of numerous productions. Charlotte Kensington, a vibrant 28-year-old with fiery red hair and a thirst for adventure, had recently arrived in the city. She was spending a few months working as a cultural consultant for a film project, her rich background in European arts and her parents' connections making her a sought-after guest at social gatherings.
One considerably warm evening, Charlotte found herself at a rooftop party in downtown Vancouver. The city lights shimmered against the darkening sky, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of the sea. The event, hosted by a mutual friend who delighted in bringing together a diverse group of people, was alive with chatter and laughter. Charlotte felt at ease in this eclectic crowd, her natural charm and curiosity drawing others to her.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan, a 42-year-old actor who just wrapped up filming Watchmen and another season of Supernatural, noticed her from across the rooftop. He was immediately drawn to Charlotte’s radiant presence. He figured she must be quite something, given the way she was managing the crowd around her so elegantly. And what seemed to be a delicious figure hiding under her flowy dress piqued his interest too. “Hey... Hey, man. Who’s that?” He asked a nearby guest.
“That’s Charlotte Kensington,” Misha replied. “She’s new to America but already making quite an impact.”
Kensington. His manager did mention the possibility of the appearance of some big-shot named Kensington but, boy, did she fail to mention her beauty. “Her family’s quite influential in the industry. You should go talk to her,” his manager had suggested, recognising the potential for a beneficial connection. “It could be good for you.”
Jensen and Jared were engaged in a playful banter across the table until Jeffrey’s interest in the woman caught Jensen's attention. “Oh, that tight ass is so out of your league, bro.”
Danneel, sitting beside them with Genevieve, hit Jensen on the arm. “Hey now, sourpuss, you’re just trying to discourage him because she wasn’t interested in you two’s games.”
Jared smirked at Jensen when his girl saw through him. Instinctively, he pulled Genevieve closer to him. “She’s a, er, culture and art consultant or something in this international project. Apparently, she knew Kim. She was at the funeral.” Jeffrey couldn’t make it to the funeral. “And she knows this new guy that plays the demon. She landed him the job.”
“Mark,” Misha nodded.
“She’s a philanthropist,” Genevieve added. “She was so enthusiastic when we brought up Mish’s new project.”
The couple had shared Misha's contact information with the young woman. Within a few days, Charlotte had reached out to him and they had arranged to meet for coffee to discuss his mission and vision in more detail. During their meeting, Misha had passionately explained his project’s goals and the impact he hoped to achieve, impressing Charlotte with his sincerity and dedication. She had listened intently, captivated by his enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference. By the end of their conversation, she was convinced of Misha's genuine act of kindness and had expressed her eagerness to contribute to the cause. Her willingness to lend her expertise and resources added another layer of excitement and promise to Misha’s endeavours, paving the way for a meaningful collaboration.
“She’s a humanitarian,” Misha corrected Genevieve. “A kind, down-to-earth soul. Don’t let them get to you, Jeff.”
Jeffrey tapped on Misha’s chest in an appreciative manner and gave Jensen and Jared the finger. Not wanting to miss her and the opportunity to get to know her himself, he carefully navigated through the crowd until he was standing beside her, where the twinkling city lights reflected in her bright green eyes. He wore a wide, charming smile that softened his rugged demeanour. “Well, if it isn’t the most enchanting social butterfly of the evening,” he said, his voice carrying a playful edge. “Hi, I’m Jeffrey. I couldn’t help but notice how you seem to light up the room.”
Charlotte looked up, momentarily taken aback by his direct approach. After collecting herself in a beat, she noticed the warm and easy-going aura the tall, dark and handsome man radiated with his bright smile, big dimples and deep hazel eyes. “Oh, Jeffrey, this is hardly a room.” She smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Charlotte,” she introduced herself, extending her hand gracefully. “Thank you for the lovely compliment. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Jeffrey’s eyes twinkled with curiosity when he noticed the colour on her cheeks, contrasting with her sassy comeback, and his body started to buzz lowly when his name rolled off her tongue. Her tongue. Great, now his curiosity shifted to her tongue. He leaned in slightly and gave her a two-handed handshake, his touch lingering just a moment longer than necessary. “Not Charlotte Kensington?” He pretended as if he didn’t know who she was until he’d picked up the accent— it was hard not to, anyway— as if he didn’t just ask around about her. He absentmindedly licked his lips and his smile widened. “Gotta be honest, doll, I did hear the name, but I wasn’t prepared for how captivating you’d be. You’re quite the breath of fresh air. That should say a lot given where we are.” He casually looked around for a second but his eyes quickly landed back on hers when he offered her a wink. “And the pleasure is all mine.” For a brief moment, he placed his hand on his chest, signalling honesty, and then slid his hands into the pockets of his grey trousers.
Charlotte had her fair share of attractive people from the industry trying to get close to her for her name and her looks. She had learned at a young age that the film industry was a cutthroat chess game where each player sacrifices their integrity for the sake of a grand victory, manoeuvring through deceit and manipulation like pieces on a board, all while maintaining a façade of noble strategy. Some honest folks were in it for the arts, sure, but they were relatively small in numbers.
Another thing she had learned, from all the game nights her parents threw, was to read people and see through their poker face. It might have been his warmth and the earthy smell of his cologne clouding her senses, drawing her in, but her senses told her he was a sincere, honest man. Or maybe it was the way he towered over her, with his rolled-up sleeves and hands in his pockets, showing off his tattoos.
She chuckled softly, a sound like a shy melody despite her polished manners. “Well, I suppose, I should thank Hermes then,” that earned her a chuckle from the man. “Though I assure you, I’m quite ordinary,” she replied, her voice carrying a playful lilt. Her eyes met his, and she could sense an intriguing depth behind his hazel gaze.
“Ordinary?” Jeffrey repeated, his voice filled with disbelief. “Oh, sweetheart, I don’t think anyone here would agree with that assessment. You’ve got a rare spark, and it’s hard not to notice.”
She could tell he meant her personality and company, rather than her appearance and name, and his sincerity made her smile, the kind that reached her eyes and lit them up. “So, Jeffrey, what brings you here?” she asked, shifting the conversation to learn more about him. “Work or pleasure?”
“Both, actually,” Jeffrey replied, leaning casually against the railing beside her. “I just wrapped up filming my first major picture, and for this recurring character on a show I’ve been part of for a while. It’s been a busy time, but I’m here to enjoy this beautiful city and see what opportunities come next. Plus, I'm a bit of a motorcycle enthusiast, so the winding roads here are a dream.” He said dramatically.
"Motorcycles?” Charlotte's interest was piqued. “That does sound exciting.” She admitted. “I've never had the chance to ride one. I'm more of a sailing enthusiast myself. There's something about the open sea that feels so freeing."
“Sailing, huh?” Jeffrey’s eyebrows rose and smile widened once again. “Say, would you welcome me aboard someday if I can convince you to try a ride sometime?” His voice dropped an octave. It had hints of danger.
In the back of her mind, Charlotte knew there wasn’t much need for convincing. A secret side of her that had stirred and woken up because of him at some point into their meeting was already jumping in excitement. “Hm, maybe.” She played it cool and collected. “I can’t see why not. I can even show you the ropes,” she said nonchalantly but had a playful smirk on her plump lips. “If you ask nicely.”
He chuckled darkly. “Oh, honey, I know my ropes and knots alright. Trust me.” His eyes feasted on the blush that deepened on her cheeks. He savoured the sight of her restrained frustration for a moment before he decided to lighten the conversation. “What about you, sweetheart?” Seeing that the glass in her hand was already finished, with a swift move, Jeffrey replaced it with a full one from the passing tray the banquet server was holding and grabbed another for himself as well. “What’s a woman like yourself doing in a place like this?” He had to hear from her. What his colleagues mentioned earlier at the table wasn’t enough to get to know her.
Charlotte was grateful for the change of topic. “I’m here working as a cultural consultant for a film project,” she explained. His question was genuine, and she appreciated his attentiveness. “I’d never been on this side of the globe before. It’s been a unique experience, and Vancouver has a lot to offer. The possibilities, the scenery… the people. It’s all so fascinating I must admit.” Her eyes fluttered and she felt like taking a sip from her refreshing drink. There was an undeniable chemistry in the air.
“Fascinating, huh?” Jeffrey teased, raising an eyebrow. "I hope I make the cut."
Charlotte laughed softly. “Oh, you certainly do, Jeffrey.”
Now it was Jeffrey who had a similar shy smile on his face. “Aw, shucks, doll, you’re making me blush and shit— Oopsie,” He covered his mouth with his long digits, making her giggle at his antics. “Pardon my language, m’lady. But it seems like I was charmed by your presence and lost control of myself. I gotta ask, are you always this charming, or is it just for tonight?” He simply couldn’t help himself.
“Oh, easy there, cowboy…” A familiar voice was heard and Charlotte turned to find the only person she knew from home. “Lottie, darling, I leave you alone for a moment and a Winchester is already all over you. And it’s the infamous Daddy Winchester, nonetheless. Tsk, tsk… Bad girl.” Mark’s playful remark was accompanied by a broad smile as he approached, his eyes twinkling with mischief. He pulled Charlotte closer to himself in a protective manner when he noticed how close they stood. It wasn’t as though he was jealous but he wanted to protect the young woman from the prying eyes since he knew she wasn’t keen on getting herself in a situation where she’d become the next talk piece.
Jeffrey’s eyebrow rose at the sudden and bold intrusion and the way the man pulled her away. He noticed his hand was on her upper side, where universally considered a friendly territorial, the recognition and the relief in Charlotte’s eyes, the welcoming smile on her lips, the playful eye roll she gave him and the blush that crept further up her cheeks. He felt an itching in his palms, holding himself back from pulling the woman back to the spot where she was a second ago, near himself. His logical side told him not to be ridiculous.
“Mark…” She scolded him for the innuendo and obscenity.
Jeffrey only recognised the man when Charlotte called out his name. Jeffrey was a nerd and he was familiar with his work. He’d heard that a Mark Sheppard was to make an appearance, or two, this season but he couldn’t put a face to the name until now that he stood before him.
“It’s actually Papa Winchester— that’s what they call me on the set.” He explained the inside joke for the sake of the blushing woman, no matter how much he enjoyed the sight. “But I don’t mind it either,” Jeffrey smirked wolfishly, winked at the woman and offered his hand to the man. “Nice to finally meet you, man. You’re quite the legend.”
“Oh, no. His father is the legend.” Charlotte corrected him and put her hand on Mark’s chest for a brief moment to show Mark she was just teasing. “Mark here is just another nepo baby.”
“My, my, the tongue on that one… Now, is that the way to talk to your elders, young lady? I thought I taught you better.” Mark playfully pinched the back of her arm.
“Mark!” Charlotte whispered, failing to hide her embarrassment.
“Oh, hush now, pet.” Mark snapped back. He reached and squeezed Jeffrey’s hand firmly. “Alas, the lady is right. The legend is my father.”
Jeffrey’s eyes sparkled with intrigue as he absorbed the playful banter between the two. “Ladies are always right.” He shot a wink at Charlotte.
“Indeed.” Mark’s eyes twinkled with mischief.
“The word is that I should thank our Charlotte for this opportunity of meeting you. Too bad we don’t have any shared screen time, man.” Jeffrey added. It was clear that he was impressed by her accomplishments.
“Me?” Charlotte was truly surprised. “Oh, no. He was already on Kim’s list by the time I got here. I just sped things up a notch.”
“However talented she might be,” Mark admitted. “I’m afraid that is right, my man. Kim was a good friend, bless his soul.”
“He was, he was…” Jeffrey nodded, offering a half, sad smile.
Charlotte didn’t know the man as well as they did. She was there at the funeral that day on behalf of her parents, who were friends with the departed.
“I was with you lot for one episode, Jeffrey boy, and it’s been fun, but I don’t need more.” Mark started. “I’ve seen you in action from afar and have been quite impressed with your work.” And no, he did not mean his acting. “It’s nice to see you’ve managed to capture our dear Charlotte’s attention. Not an easy feat, I assure you.”
“Well, it seems I’ve been caught red-handed.” Jeffrey said with a shy chuckle, “I appreciate the endorsement, man. I’ll have to make sure to keep up the charm then. And as for capturing Charlotte’s attention, it’s a challenge I’d always be up for.”
“Caught indeed.” Mark’s grin widened as he took a sip from his scotch.
“I’m terribly sorry. Would you excuse us for a minute?” Charlotte, avoiding looking her new acquaintance in the eye in a poor attempt at hiding her embarrassment, gently took Mark’s arm and guided him toward a quieter part of the rooftop where a producer was discussing a new project. “Mark, darling, you remember Roberto, don’t you?”
Jeffrey watched them disappear into the crowd, a flicker of concern crossing his features. He couldn’t help but feel as though his moment with Charlotte had slipped away. Had he been too forward? What was her deal with Sheppard?
Mark, catching onto her unease, followed her with a knowing smile. As they reached the quieter corner, Mark turned to Charlotte with an amused glint in his eye. “Alright, pet, what’s the rush? You’re not usually one to shy away from charming company. Did I embarrass you a little too much?”
Charlotte straightened her posture and gave him a cool, practised smile. “Oh, what makes you think that, I wonder,” she replied, her tone carrying a sarcastic edge. “I’m merely concerned about maintaining a certain image. You know how it is— one must always be mindful of appearances, especially when dealing with industry professionals.”
Mark raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying her excuse. “Ah, I see. And you were clearly so mindful before I came along.” He teased. “Is this concern for your image more about Jeffrey’s perception or how you appear in the grand scheme of things, darling?”
Charlotte’s eyes narrowed slightly, but she kept her composure. “Well, given the context, I’d say it’s a bit of both. I’d also rather not give the impression that I’m easily flustered… Or that I’m someone’s pet.” She admitted with a lower tone.
Mark smirked before he took a sip of his drink. “I promised that tosser Christian I’d look after you during your stay in the new world, love, and that’s merely what I’ve been doing.” He shrugged.
“Oh, did you? How very thoughtful of you.” Charlotte rolled her eyes at him once again before she interacted with the producer and introduced Mark into the conversation with Roberto. “I’ll leave you two to it.”
As she made her way back through the crowd towards Jeffrey, Charlotte hoped to ease the lingering tension and get back to their earlier conversation. However, her path was obstructed by enthusiastic partygoers eager to engage her in lively discussion about her work, the city, and eventually their work.
Despite her attempts to gently excuse herself, Charlotte found herself surrounded, caught in a whirlwind of questions and compliments. She answered with her usual grace, though her eyes kept flicking towards Jeffrey, who was now engrossed in a conversation at the bar with a group of friends.
Misha had called it a night and headed home to his family. Jared had noticed how Jeffrey was standing alone and drinking by the bar and suggested that they keep him company.
“Ha,” Jensen said, sitting on the stool next to him. He ordered the first rounds. “You know how I hate saying I told you so—”
Jeffrey put down his glass, smirking to conceal his disappointment. “No, you don’t.”
“No, I don’t.” Jensen agreed and handed out the drinks. “I told you so, old man.”
“Charlotte!” Someone called out as she tried to navigate her way through the sea of people. It was a filmmaker she’d met earlier in the evening, and he was keen to discuss a potential collaboration. “I’ve been wanting to ask you more about your insights.”
She managed a polite smile, though her patience was wearing thin. “Of course, I’d love to discuss it,” she replied, her voice strained but cordial. “But perhaps we move away from all these speakers first?” … And get closer to the bar. “I’d hate for you to have to shout over the noise.”
As they moved towards a less crowded area, Charlotte kept glancing back towards the bar, feeling the weight of her missed opportunity to reconnect with Jeffrey. She was determined to get back to him, but the crowd seemed intent on keeping her from slipping away. Each time she thought she was close, another familiar face or another question pulled her back into the fray.
Eventually, she excused herself with an apologetic smile, promising to continue the conversation later. Her journey back to the bar was now marked by a mix of urgency and determination. As she finally approached, she saw Jeffrey engaged in animated conversation with his friends, an amber drink in his hand and a relaxed demeanour.
She took a deep breath and approached the group, her posture slightly stiff but her smile genuine. “I hope I didn’t keep you waiting,” she said, her voice carrying a touch of weariness from her battle through the crowd. “I got a bit sidetracked by all those enthusiastic people over there.”
Jeffrey looked up, his eyes lighting up with recognition and a hint of relief. “Not at all,” he said with a warm smile. “I was just about to send out a search party. Come join us. I believe you already know my on-screen boys and their beautiful ladies." He introduced Jensen, Jared, Danneel and Genevieve, sitting on the bar stool with a couple of drinks in already. “And apparently, I’m the surprise element at the end of the episode. The plot twist. By the time you’ve met everyone else, I get to come in and add a little extra sparkle. I’m just here to make sure the evening ends on a high note.”
Charlotte chuckled, her gaze meeting his with an intrigued expression. “And what makes you so confident that you’re the grand finale?”
Jeffrey shrugged with a grin. “It’s a bit of a gamble, really. But I’ve found that if you save the best for last, people tend to remember it. And I’ve got a good feeling about tonight.”
Jensen, picking up on Jeffrey’s enthusiasm, chimed in with a smirk. “Oh, Jeff’s definitely got his moments. But don’t let him fool you; he’s also the guy who’ll make sure you’re having a great time from start to finish.”
Charlotte’s eyes glinted with amusement. “You know, I do have a bit of a knack for gambling myself. And I suppose I’ll just have to see if your performance lives up to the hype.”
Jeffrey raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Ah, a fellow gambler, huh? A woman after my heart. Tell me, sweetheart, what’s your game of choice?”
Charlotte leaned in slightly, a playful smile on her lips. “I like to mix things up— sometimes it’s a strategic bet, other times just going with my instincts.”
Jeffrey draped an arm over his shoulder, pulling her closer to the bar table and guiding her to the seat where he was sitting moments ago. “And how about tonight, doll? Are you feeling strategic, or are you ready to go with your instincts?”
Charlotte took the seat with a graceful nod, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “I think tonight calls for a mix of both. A little strategy to navigate this little naughty crowd here, but my instincts are telling me to enjoy the moment.”
Jeffrey smiled, clearly enjoying her spirit. “A wise choice, young lady. This city’s got a way of surprising you when you least expect it.” He leaned in closer to her ear from behind as he held her by her arms and spoke in a low, deep voice. “Besides, I bet you’ve got the instincts of a pro.”
“Alright, then...” Genevieve rescued the blushing woman. “What’s your poison, sweetie?”
“Oh,” She looked around as she tried to gather her thoughts but Jeffrey’s deep voice in her ear, and the way his warm presence and head-spinning scent surrounded her, didn’t make it as easy. “Um, what are you having?” she asked, her voice carrying a hint of forced laughter as she attempted to shake off her flustered state.
Genevieve held up her glass, revealing a cosmopolitan, its pink hue sparkling in the light. “Just a classic cosmopolitan. It’s got a nice kick.”
“I’ll have to pass on the vodka. It doesn’t quite agree with me.” She looked around the bar before capturing the bartender’s attention. “Excuse me, could you see if you have any peach brandy? I’d love a Manhattan twist. And if you have Woodford Reserve, that would be splendid.”
The bartender nodded, “I’ll get that started for you.”
Jeffrey’s eyes sparkled with admiration. “Someone knows her poisons. Better be careful around this witchy woman.”
Jensen started murmuring the chorus of the famous song under his breath, catching Charlotte’s attention for a moment.
Jared, catching Jeffrey’s impressed reaction, chimed in with a teasing grin and with a nudge of his elbow. “So, Charlotte, are you always this picky?”
“Picky?” She faked an offended expression at first, then her lips curled into a smile as she met Jared’s playful gaze. “I prefer to think of it as knowing exactly what I want.”
“And do you always know exactly what you want?” Jared mused.
Charlotte nodded. “I do.”
Jared grinned mischievously. “Now, I really have to ask: what’s your type in men?”
Charlotte’s eyes widened slightly, and she felt a flush rise to her cheeks. She knew she’d walked right into that one. With a playful tilt of her head, she looked at Jared and said, “Oh, shame on you for assuming my orientation, mister. I’ll have you know that my preferences lean towards women.”
Danneel laughed, “What’s the fun in assuming anything, boys? And in limiting ourselves, right?”
Genevieve nodded in agreement. “Absolutely. It’s all about the chemistry and connection, baby.”
Jared tapped on the bar table and his grin widened as his eyes found Jeffrey. “It seems like she comes with a twist too.”
Jeffrey’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. Given their flirtatious exchange earlier and her interaction with Mark, he was caught off guard. “Wait, really?”
Charlotte gave a playful shrug, her smile widening as she took a sip of her freshly-made drink. “You never know what surprises might come your way in this city,” she mused, her tone light and teasing as she reminded him of his words from earlier. “And I’m sure you’ve got a few up your sleeve too, Jeffrey. Care to share?”
“Oh, doll, I’m afraid I’m a pretty straightforward guy. No surprises here, really. I like my women, and I like them how I like my whiskey.” Jeffrey leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a playful whisper. "In my mouth." He flashed a wolfish grin before continuing, “But I do like to keep some things interesting. Can’t let life get too predictable, right?” He reached over her shoulder and picked up his refilled glass.
The blush crept back up to Charlotte’s cheeks. It was the kind women again who changed the topic. The group continued to chat and enjoy their drinks, with Jeffrey clearly intrigued by Charlotte’s demeanour, aching to unravel and free her from all the formalities.
As the evening progressed, the mood on the rooftop shifted. The crowd grew more animated, the music became louder, and people began to dance and party. Danneel and Jensen eventually excused themselves, exchanging warm goodbyes before heading out. Genevieve and Jared, caught up in the festive mood, moved to the dance floor, leaving Jeffrey and Charlotte on their own.
As the vibrant energy of the party swirled around them, Charlotte felt a pleasant shiver run down her spine under Jeffrey's gaze. He noticed her reaction and, assuming she was feeling chilly, offered a kind smile. “Looks like you might be getting cold, doll.” He placed a hand on her back and the other on the bar table as he was about to get up. “I’m not sure if it’s a good idea to leave you here alone while you’re looking so goddamn pretty but I’m gonna go and grab my jacket for you. You stay right here, and scream if some other creep comes up and calls you a bug or some shit.”
Charlotte giggled at his silliness and the way he called out on himself from earlier. She appreciated his thoughtfulness but placed a hand on his chest to stop his rambling and had him lean closer so that he could hear her better. “Why don’t we go and grab it together? My stuff too? I think I’d prefer a quieter walk around the city. It would be much easier to hear each other and have a proper conversation.”
Jeffrey’s eyes brightened at the suggestion. “That sounds like a great idea. Let’s go.” He led her up and inside the building. The staff handed them their things, Jeffrey left a tip.
“Oh, I'd better let Mark know I’m leaving,” Charlotte said as she pulled out her phone from her mini purse. “We arrived together and I’d hate to be rude and not tell him. Would you mind?”
“Not at all, sweetheart. Go on.” Jeffrey gave her arm a reassuring squeeze before he headed to the elevators. “Tell him I’ll see him around.”
Charlotte nodded and dialled his number, her phone ringing a few times before he picked up. After a few rings, his familiar voice answered, a hint of weariness mixed with his trademark sass.
“Mark Sheppard. If this is a telemarketer, you’ve called the wrong number. If it’s Charlotte, you’ve called just in time for me to explain why I’m no longer at that raucous party.”
"You left already?" Charlotte was surprised. "And left me alone with strangers here? I thought you made a promise to Christian." She teased. She looked up to find that Jeffrey’s back was turned to her, so she pulled out some extra cash for the staff member. It wasn’t that Jeffrey was stingy with his tip, but to add a touch of her own generosity.
"Oh, do spare me the blackmail, you brat. Last time I checked, you were thoroughly enjoying yourself with a certain stranger,” Mark’s response was quick. “It was getting a bit too lively for my taste. So, I made my exit. I’m now comfortably ensconced in my room and about to Facetime me missus. Tell me, did the charming cowboy manage to wrangle you away from the crowd yet?”
Charlotte sucked in her cheek as she waited for the sake of the dramatic suspense. “Hm, maybe. Alright, alright, we’re going on a walk.”
Mark chuckled. “Well, as I heard, you are in good hands. Enjoy your walk. Remember, there’s nothing wrong with getting a little naughty every once in a while”
“Into method acting now, are we?” Charlotte chuckled softly.
“You caught me, darling.” Mark sighed. “Is he waiting for you now? Good, make him wait a wee bit longer.”
“Why’s that?” She looked up to find Jeffrey’s gaze on her as he was waiting. She offered him an apologetic smile, to which he returned with another signature bright smile and a thumbs up.
Mark’s voice took on a conspiratorial tone. “Ah, it’s a secret, a ‘guy thing’ I can’t quite reveal to you. But let’s just say, his reaction might tell you a lot about him. Consider it a test of sorts.”
Charlotte’s curiosity was piqued. “A test?”
“Exactly,” Mark said with a hint of mischief. “If he’s worth his salt, he wouldn’t mind delaying the gratification a little. And if he’s not, well, you’ll know sooner rather than later.”
Charlotte chuckled softly, finding Mark’s teasing both amusing and oddly insightful. “Alright, Wise Owl. I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks for the advice.”
“Anytime, darling,” Mark said with a warm, if slightly cheeky, tone. “Let me know if you need me to send the driver back to pick you up.”
Charlotte ended the call with a smile, feeling a mix of amusement and curiosity. She glanced up at Jeffrey, who was still waiting with a patient and easy demeanour.
As she approached him, Jeffrey couldn’t help but be struck by her presence. In his eyes, she was nothing short of a celestial muse, a beacon of elegance amidst the evening’s dimming lights.
They stepped into the elevator and the quiet hum of the machinery seemed to amplify the soft, electric tension between them. Jeffrey’s gaze lingered on Charlotte, his eyes tracing her curves as they ascended. The walls of the elevator were lined with mirrors, and for a moment, their reflections seemed to dance together, casting a warm, shimmering glow.
Charlotte’s attention was drawn to the subtle play of light on Jeffrey’s face, and she found herself captivated by the way his eyes sparkled with excitement and lust. It was as if the evening’s earlier chaos had dissolved, leaving only the two of them in this small, intimate space where she could get a better whiff of his intoxicating scent that seemed to envelop Jeffrey, and now herself too as they stood close in the elevator. It was a blend of creamy musk, the fluffiest suede leather and velvety woods with a hint of tobacco, mint and sweet liquor.
The elevator doors opened with a soft chime, but neither Charlotte nor Jeffrey moved immediately. The moment hung between them, thick with unspoken tension, the city waiting just beyond the threshold. Charlotte’s heart raced, the heady mix of Jeffrey’s scent and the proximity of his tall frame making her feel both exhilarated and a little unsteady on her feet.