Chapter 15: The Garden
Nicholas slowed his steps as they reached the grand staircase. He paused at the bottom, leaning casually against the ornate bannister, his lips tugged into that awkward, infuriatingly charming smirk.
"So," he began, his tone light, "how are you liking your little tour so far?"
Ella crossed her arms, tilting her head to the side. "It’s fine, I guess."
"Fine?" Nicholas arched an eyebrow, feigning insult. "Ella, do you know how many people would kill to walk these halls? ’Fine’ is the best you can do?"
She bit her lip, stifling a smile. "Well, if you’re so desperate for praise, I could tell you how extravagant and excessive it all is."
He let out a bark of laughter, his hand flying to his chest as if her words had wounded him. "Extravagant and excessive? Ouch. I might need a drink to recover from that brutal honesty."
Ella rolled her eyes. "You’ll survive."
Nicholas pushed off the bannister and walked toward her, his movements slow and deliberate, like a predator closing in on its prey.
"You know, most people try to butter me up. Say nice things. Compliment my impeccable taste."
"Well," she shot back, standing her ground despite the way her heart started pounding in her chest, "I’m not most people."
He stopped just inches away from her, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "That much is obvious."