"You should at least grab a gold coin before sneaking away from the residence. Works for me all the time." He winked at her.
She didn't know how to react to this but his smile is making her melt. She gave in and took the bangles, her fingers touched his cold hand and she couldn't help but blush.
"T-Thank you, young master." She bowed her head.
Damien chuckled softly, enjoying her flustered reaction. "You're welcome, Lumiere," he said, using her name for the first time. The sound of it on his lips felt strangely satisfying. He couldn't help but notice how her eyes sparkled behind the veil as she glanced up at him.
"It's a small gift, but I thought it would make you happy," he continued, his tone sincere. "You should indulge yourself every now and then, even if it's just a simple set of bangles."
Lumiere's fingers traced the delicate carvings on the glass bangles, her gaze lingering on the intricate details. "They're beautiful," she murmured, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Thank you for this unexpected gesture, Damien."
He shrugged casually, trying to hide the warmth that spread through him at the sound of his name on her lips. "No need to thank me. It's my pleasure to bring a smile to your face, Lumiere," he replied, his eyes never leaving hers. "Since you sneaked away, let me give you a tour around here. And it's going to be my treat. Whatever you want, I'll buy it."
Lumiere's eyes widened as she stared at him in disbelief. "You can't be serious, young master!" she exclaimed. "I am not a beggar who wants to take advantage of your generosity! I'll pay for it."
"Then I'll buy you dinner later and you can pay for that," he proposed, offering his hand.
Damien's eyes sparkled with mischief as he extended his hand towards Lumiere, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. "Deal?" he asked, his tone filled with a mix of lightheartedness and genuine interest.
Lumiere hesitated for a moment, torn between her own sense of propriety and the allure of experiencing something new and unexpected. She looked at his outstretched hand, then back up at his eyes, which held a glimmer of excitement.
Finally, a shy smile graced her lips, and she placed her hand in his, feeling a slight tingle at the contact. "Deal," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the lively sounds of the marketplace.
As they walked hand in hand, Damien guided Lumiere through the bustling stalls and vibrant displays, pointing out interesting items and sharing anecdotes about the different vendors and their wares. Lumiere's initial hesitance gradually melted away, replaced by genuine curiosity and a sense of adventure.
They sampled exotic treats from street vendors, laughed together at the antics of street performers, and even engaged in friendly banter with shopkeepers. The world seemed to fade away around them as they immersed themselves in the simple joy of the moment.
Eventually, they found themselves in a quiet corner of the marketplace, away from the chaotic crowds. Damien turned to Lumiere, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "So, what would you like for dinner, Lumiere? Any particular cuisine that piques your interest?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.
Lumiere's gaze met his, her cheeks flushed with a mixture of excitement and gratitude. "Surprise me," she replied, her voice filled with a newfound sense of adventure. "I trust your judgment, Damien."
With a shared understanding and a touch of anticipation, they continued their journey, ready to savor the evening and the company they found in each other
As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden hue over the city, Damien and Lumiere made their way to a quaint and cozy restaurant tucked away in a quiet corner. The aroma of delectable dishes wafted through the air, teasing their senses and adding to the anticipation of the evening ahead.
They were greeted by a friendly ma?tre d' who led them to a secluded table by the window. Soft candlelight illuminated the space, creating an intimate ambiance that perfectly complemented the growing connection between Damien and Lumiere.
As they settled into their seats, Lumiere couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. This evening was unlike anything she had experienced before. She was used to a life of seclusion and strict routines, and now she found herself immersed in a world of spontaneity and adventure.
Damien, noticing her slight unease, reached across the table and gently squeezed her hand, offering her reassurance. Lumiere looked into his eyes, finding comfort in his warm gaze. The tension in her shoulders eased, and she returned his smile.
The menu arrived, an array of tantalizing dishes presented before them. Damien, true to his word, took charge of ordering, selecting a variety of dishes that showcased the restaurant's specialties. Lumiere, eager to embrace this new experience, nodded in agreement, placing her trust in Damien's choices.
As they waited for their meal to arrive, their conversation flowed effortlessly. They shared stories, dreams, and aspirations, each discovering new facets of the other's personality. Damien was captivated by Lumiere's passion for art and her deep curiosity about the world beyond the confines of her palace. Lumiere, in turn, marveled at Damien's zest for life and his ability to bring a sense of adventure to even the simplest moments.
The food arrived, an exquisite display of culinary craftsmanship. Lumiere's eyes widened in delight as she savored the flavors, each bite a revelation of new tastes and textures. She had to lift her veil a little bit, each time she had to take a bite.
She couldn't help but share her enthusiasm with Damien, their shared appreciation for the meal deepening their connection.
As the evening progressed, time seemed to slow down, allowing them to savor every moment. Their laughter filled the air, creating a bubble of joy and companionship that enveloped them both. Lumiere felt a newfound sense of freedom and liberation, as if she had broken free from the chains of her sheltered existence.
After dessert, Damien leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on Lumiere. "This has been a remarkable evening, Lumiere," he said, his voice filled with genuine affection. "I've enjoyed every moment spent with you."
Lumiere blushed, her heart fluttering in her chest. "I feel the same way, Damien," she replied softly. "Thank you for showing me a different side of life, for bringing me out of my shell."
Damien reached across the table, his hand finding hers once again. "You don't have to thank me, Lumiere. It's been my pleasure to share this experience with you. And I hope there will be many more moments like this in the future."
Lumiere's smile widened, her eyes shining with hope and anticipation. "I would like that, Damien," she whispered, her voice filled with newfound courage. "I would like that very much."
As the evening drew to a close, Damien and Lumiere left the restaurant, their steps light and their hearts full. They walked side by side, their hands entwined, ready to embrace the adventures that lay ahead and the blossoming romance that had taken root in their hearts.
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