Chapter 0444
“You have a cat?”
“Yes! Look…” Celeste said, pulling out her phone and showing Peter the lock screen photo.
Peter noticed two things immediately. First, the phone was a bit outdated, confirming her financial struggles. Yet despite that, Celeste carried herself like royalty–it wasn’t about her clothes or accessories but her demeanor. Her face radiated warmth and poise, even amidst her hardships. In the photo, she was smiling brightly, cradling her cat in her arms. Her happiness lit up the screen.
Peter considered offering her help but stopped himself. He didn’t want to make her uncomfortable. For now, he decided to continue the evening and think carefully about how to approach it later.
“Mr. Palmer, is Ethan your grandson or your son?” Celeste asked, surprising Peter by prioritizing a question about her favorite little student.
“Ethan is my grandson. His father runs my company, and in return, I take care of Ethan. Well, Theodore helps too. Basically, we’re his grandfathers.”
“You don’t look like a grandfather. You could easily pass as his father!”
“Oh, no. I don’t think so. I’m an old man.”
“Of course not! You look like a movie star–a very hot movie star…” Celeste said, only to freeze as she realized her slip.
“What?” Peter asked, incredulous.
Celeste’s face turned crimson as she quickly apologized. “I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to say that…”
“Be honest. Do you think I’m sexy?” Peter teased with a sly smile.
Caught off guard, Celeste took a sip of wine to calm her nerves, nearly choking on it.
“Well,” she began, still flustered, “you are a very handsome man. It’s no secret that plenty of women find you attractive. I don’t know your exact age, but I’d guess you’re not older than 40.”
“Celeste, I’m 50 years old.”
“Wow! I can’t believe it. You really don’t look it. See? That’s what I mean–you’re incredibly attractive. Your age gives you a certain… charm.”
“Can we drop the formalities, please? Stop calling me ‘Mr. Palmer.“”
“Okay… what should I call you?”
“Peter. That’s fine.”
“Alright, Peter.”
As the evening progressed, their conversation flowed easily They discussed their jobs, Spike the cat, daily routines, and of course, Ethan and Theodore. Peter realized it had been years since he’d enjoyed an evening like this–especially with a woman.
By the time they left the restaurant, they were more comfortable with each other. Celeste’s cheeks were flushed, partly from the wine and partly from the night’s excitement. She trembled slightly from the chill, prompting Peter to offer her his jacket. Unlike Celeste, who was slightly tipsy, Peter was perfectly composed as he asked for
1/2
Chapter 0444
her address and began driving.
+25 BONUS
The ride would take about an hour, Celeste tried to stay awake, but the warmth of the car, the wine, and her exhaustion overtook her. By the time she opened her eyes, they were parked in front of her apartment building
“Wake up, sleepyhead,” Peter said gently, brushing her check with his fingertips.
The soft touch startled Celeste awake. “We’re here?” she asked groggily.
“We’ve been here for about 15 minutes.”
“What time is it?”
“It’s 3:00 am,” Peter replied, glancing at his watch.
“Goodness! You live so far from here, and I just dozed off on you.”
“What did I say about the formalities?” Peter reminded her with a playful smirk.
“Sorry! You live far from here… and I was here, keeping you up.”
“Don’t worry about it. I’m used to sleeping only a few hours.”
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“What floor do you live on?” Peter asked as she started gathering her things.
“The fifth. Why?”
“Does this building have an elevator?”
“No, but it’s good exercise,” Celeste replied with a weak laugh.
Peter sighed, stepped out of the car, and opened her door, offering his hand. “Come on. I’ll walk you to your door, then I’ll head back.”
“That’s really not necessary. I can make it up alone.”
“Do you really think I’m going to let you walk up to the fifth floor alone at this hour in a building full of apartments?”
“That’s what I usually do…”
“Let’s go. I’ll feel better knowing you’re safe.”
Peter and Celeste made their way through the building’s dimly lit corridors and up the stairs. When they reached her door, she removed his jacket to return it but paused, suddenly remembering the time.
“Peter, you should rest here for a bit. In the morning, you can drive back to Westhaven. My apartment isn’t big, but I’d feel terrible if you drove home while tired,” she said unlocking her door
Peter stepped inside, taking in the modest yet charming space. The apartment reflected Celeste’s personality— cozy, simple, and full of character.
“Please, take a seat. Would you like some coffee?” Celeste asked, slipping off her heels and walking barefoot through her apartment.
Peter watched her move, captivated by her grace. It was clear–this woman had a profound effect on him. Tonight would be a night he wouldn’t forget.
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