Chapter 38 Chapter 38
Tessa
Leah walked back and we stepped into the shopping mall even though the shock was still on me the view of the mall took my breath and I couldn't help but gasp.
The interior was breathtaking, with radiant lights, glittering jewelry stores, and rows of upscale clothing boutiques. Everywhere I looked, something new and exciting caught my eye.
"I'm so happy to be here!" Leah exclaimed, drawing the attention of the passersby.
"You're being dramatic," Liam, rolled his eyes.
Leah chuckled and nudged me playfully. "Let's go explore!" she exclaimed one more dragging me by force.
I don't feel good coming here.
We stepped into the clothing store, and Liam fell back, allowing Leah to lead the way. I lingered behind, hesitating to move forward.
"Why did I agree to come here?" I muttered under my breath. "If I'd known Mr. Grumpy was Leah's brother, I wouldn't have..." My thoughts trailed off as Liam's piercing gaze met mine. Had he heard me?
I quickly fastened my pace, following Leah into the store, trying to shake off my unease.
"Okay! let's get into shopping!" She screamed, scanning the racks. "I'm loving this season's trends, sustainable fashion, statement pieces, and bold colors!" She uttered.
"Oh, Leah, look at this!" I said, holding up a vibrant dress but quickly dropped it when Liam's eyes caught me.
"Gorgeous!" Leah squealed picking up the dress. "Try it on, Tessa! You'd rock that look."
Liam cleared his throat, his deep voice interrupting our excitement. "Are you going to pick what you need rather than examine the whole collection?" He asked his eyes solely on me.
"Come on, lighten up! Fashion is art!" Leah grinned mischievously.
I shot Liam a sideways glance, wondering if I'd ever relax around him.
We walked further and Leah's eyes sparkled as she held up a stunning black gown. "Tessa, this would look breathtaking on you! Try it on." She gestured it toward me.
But I hesitated, acutely aware of Liam's piercing gaze. His presence is making my skin prickle with unease.
"I don't think so," I said, trying to sound casual despite my racing heart.
Leah frowned her face in disappointment, but she moved on to browse more clothes. Liam trailed behind, his eyes locking onto mine with an unnerving intensity.
Every glance felt like a challenge, a challenge that I didn't wish to be a participant in.
Leah thrust another outfit into my hands. "Try this one, Tessa!" Her voice was sharp.
I wanted to reject but her eyes silenced me, "Go try it on." She propelled me further
I nodded twice and clapped the dress from her. I walk to the dressing room.
In the dressing room, I struggled to shake off Liam's haunting presence. Why did he affect me so deeply?
I took off the cloth I was put on and slipped into the new gown, the fabric hugged my curves, accentuating my hourglass figure. I felt exposed and vulnerable.
I check myself in the mirror, checking out the beauty of the gown.
I was about to step out when Liam's sudden entrance made my heart stutter. His eyes burned with an unspoken question.
"Wha .... wha.... What are you....doing here?" I asked, trying to sound calm despite my trembling voice.
His gaze roamed over me, his expression softening. "You look... stunning." He sucked into his lower lips.
My cheeks flushed, and I felt like I was drowning in his intense stare.
I wanted to push him away, but my legs felt frozen, trembling beneath me. I was paralyzed with uncertainty.
He stepped deeper into the dressing room, his eyes locked onto mine. He moved closer, his hand supporting the wall beside my head, trapping me.
His warm breath filled my face, sending shivers down my spine. His voice was low and husky. "You look sweet." He stride closer leaving an inch between us.
My eyes widened as he raised his hand to brush a strand of hair behind my ear. His fingertips grazed my cheek, sending sparks through my body.
"What does this mean?" I whispered, my voice barely audible.
"We still have unfinished business to attend to," he smiles wickedly and With that, he turned to leave, leaving me frozen in place, unsure of what to do next.
My heart racing, I struggled to process what had just happened.
Suddenly Leah opened the dressing room door, I quickly tried to compose myself, but she noticed my shaking.
"What's wrong? Why are you shaking?" She asked, her brow furrowed with concern.
I hesitated, unsure how to reveal the unsettling encounter with Liam. "Nothing's wrong. I'm just not feeling myself today I told you earlier." I lied once again.
Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "I know you're hiding something. Why can't you tell me?" She pressed further.
"Honestly, Leah, I'm fine. Just a bit off," I shook my head, feeling a mix of guilt and anxiety.
"Don't pressure yourself, Tessa. Life's too short. Enjoy every moment," Her expression softened.
Her words brought a weak smile to my lips. I appreciated her concern.
Her stare fell upon the dress I wore. "Wow, you look stunning! You put on the dress I suggested."
I nodded, feeling a slight flush.
"I have a party tonight, at 9 PM," Leah said, her eyes sparkling. "It's a birthday celebration. Would you like to come?"
My heart sank. I knew Mom would never approve. "I don't think I can. My mom won't allow it."
"Come on, Tessa, you're not a baby. Your mom will understand. It's just a party," Leah said.
"My mom will never understand. We just moved here less than a month ago, and she'd worried about me adjusting. There's no way she'll let me go to a party in the city," I replied.
"I get it, but maybe I can talk to your mom?" She suggested.
"No, that can never be possible, I'm sorry" I interrupted, firm.
Just as Leah opened her mouth to respond, Liam called out.
"Girls, hurry up! I have somewhere to go and I'm running late," Liam spoke.
Leah's face fell, and she checked her watch.
"Got it, bro. We're coming," she replied.
She turned to me. "You can think about it, right?" Leah asked.
"I can't promise but I will try" I replied knowing fully that Mum would never accept.