Chapter 78

Bella.

As we got into the car, the weight of the conversation with Daniel back inside was still vivid in my mind. Even though he had shown understanding and some comfort for what happened in my previous relationship, I still hadn't told him about my strained relationship with my parents.

Daniel sensed the lingering sadness in my eyes while he was driving. He inquired, his worry clear, "Bella, is there something else on your mind?"

I thought for a second before deciding to tell him more of my truth. "It's about my parents," I said, my voice a little shaky.

"When I broke off my engagement, they didn't support my decision, or try to console me in any way. Instead, they judged me and made me feel like I had embarrassed the family by leaving him, just because it happened a day before the wedding. To make things worse, they also disowned me for choosing to be an artist and not going along with their plans for me."

After I poured my heart out to Daniel about my past and how my parents disowned me, he wrapped his arms around me, offering comfort in silence. I appreciated his understanding and support, confirming that he genuinely cared about me.

"You did the right thing, Bella," Daniel said softly, breaking the silence. "You don't deserve to be hurt by parents who care more about their reputation than their own child's happiness," he added.

I nodded, wiping away a stray tear. "You're right. Thanks, Daniel. It means a lot to hear that from you."

He smiled warmly at me. "I know nothing I say can completely comfort you, but I want you to know I'm here for you, no matter what."

"Thank you, really," I replied, feeling a mix of emotions. "But I'm okay, you know? I've already come to terms with being disowned, and I don't care about what they think anymore."

It occurred to me that Daniel was about to start driving me in the direction of my house, and I immediately felt a sudden reluctance to go home. I just didn't want to face my nosy roommate, Nelly, who would undoubtedly bombard me with questions about my date with Daniel.

"Where do you want to go, then?" Daniel asked, confusion evident in his eyes.

I hesitated for a moment before gathering my courage. "Could I come home with you?" I blurted out.

Daniel looked taken aback, his eyes widening slightly. He stayed quiet for a while before finally asking, "Are you sure, Bella?"

Deep down, I was nervous about my suggestion, but I didn't want to show it. "Yes, I'm sure," I replied, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "I mean, I've been curious about where you live, and spending the night at your place sounds nice."

His surprise slowly turned into a smile. "Well, if that's what you want, then of course," he said warmly. "You're more than welcome to come home with me."

As we drove to his place, my heart raced with anticipation. I couldn't believe I was taking this step, but something about being with Daniel felt right. I admired him, and he made me feel safe like I could be myself without judgement.

When we arrived at his apartment, I took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was the first time I had ever been to his place, and I was curious to see where he lived.

"Make yourself at home," Daniel said, leading me inside.

When we arrived inside the living room, he offered me something to drink, but I declined, saying I was okay. I looked around his apartment, admiring the neat and stylish decor. It was much bigger than I anticipated, but it also felt very cozy, and I felt comfortable being there with him.

"I think I'm a bit tired. Mind if I take a quick shower?" I asked.

"Sure, go ahead," Daniel said, pointing me to the bathroom. "I've got some spare clothes in one of the guest rooms. You can change into them if you want."

I thanked him and went to take a refreshing shower. Afterward, I found the clothes he mentioned, a shirt and a pair of shorts. As I changed into them, I couldn't help but feel a sense of intimacy, wearing his clothes.

When I stepped out into the living room, I was taken aback by Daniel's appearance. He had also taken a shower and had changed into the most casual fit I had ever seen him in. He was wearing a sleeveless shirt that showed off his biceps, and for the first time, I noticed that he had an attractive tattoo on his upper arm.

The sight was distracting, and I tried not to stare too much, but I couldn't help myself.

"Are you okay, Bella?" Daniel asked, noticing my gaze.

Without thinking, I blurted out, "I'm not."

He raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. "Why? What's wrong?"

"I haven't seen that tattoo before," I admitted, feeling a little flustered. "And now I don't know how to react because you just look even more attractive to me," I added.

Daniel chuckled, clearly amused by my honesty. "So, you find me attractive with a tattoo, huh?"

I blushed, not expecting my confession to be taken lightly. "Yes, I do."

He smiled, a playful glint in his eyes. "Do you want to devour me or something?"

I felt my cheeks grow hotter. "Maybe I do," I admitted.

He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a husky tone. "Well, what's stopping you?"

"My common sense is telling me not to rush anything," I replied, trying to regain my composure.

Daniel nodded, understanding my hesitation. "I'll respect your wishes then. We don't need to rush into anything," he answered, not at all seeming like he was disappointed.

But as the minutes passed, I grew restless. My common sense had led me astray in the past, and I didn't want it to hold me back now. I looked at Daniel, feeling the desire growing inside me.

"I don't want to listen to my common sense. It only ever made me make bad decisions," I confessed, feeling my heart race.

Daniel looked at me with a mix of surprise and curiosity. "And what are you insinuating I should do with those words?"

"You know exactly what I'm saying, Daniel," I said boldly.

"And what is it you're saying?" he asked, feigning ignorance.

"I want you to make love to me," I answered.

The air seemed to shift as I said those words, and I could see the desire in his eyes. He took a moment to process my request before speaking.

"Are you sure, Bella? I don't want to do anything you're not ready for. There's really no rush," he said gently.

I met his gaze with determination. "I'm sure, Daniel. I want this, and I want you."

He smiled softly, caressing my cheek. "I want you to, but I don't want you to do something you might regret later."

"I won't regret it," I whispered, leaning in to kiss him.