Chapter 2

Caleb, one of the most respected and enigmatic figures in the city's elite.

Rumor had it he was incredibly disciplined, practically ascetic, always wearing a string of dark, polished beads around his wrist, never showing interest in women.

My hands trembled as I messaged him, typing and deleting words over and over.

Finally, I just sent one line: “Mr. Caleb, are you free to meet? Julian told me… to 'have some fun' with someone else.”

After sending it, I threw my phone far away, my cheeks burning.

Julian's best friend shouldn't count as just a 'random guy,' right?

I just wondered if he’d agree…

Unexpectedly, my phone vibrated almost immediately.

Just one word: “Okay.”

The location was a very secluded, high-end lounge.

When I arrived, Caleb was already there.

He sat by the window, the afternoon sun streaming through the ornate windowpanes, bathing his handsome, refined face, only adding to his icy, almost ethereal allure.

His long fingers held a cup of clear tea, wisps of steam blurring his strikingly perfect features.

The air was filled with the calming scent of sandalwood mixed with tea.

I was so nervous I almost walked in lockstep, sitting down opposite him, my throat dry. All the words I’d prepared vanished.

He looked up at me, his gaze as still as water, calm and unruffled, the beads on his wrist gleaming softly.

“He sent you?” Caleb asked, pouring me a cup of tea.

His voice was just as captivating, clear and crisp, like fresh spring water.

I twisted my fingers, looking down, my nose suddenly stinging. I nodded hard.

“M-hm.”

Silence stretched, thick with the scent of tea.

Just as I was about to bolt, feeling like I couldn't sit still another second, he gently set down his teacup and looked at me: “This 'having some fun' you mentioned… what exactly did you have in mind?”