ELLE'S POV
"You look nervous."
Noah's voice echoed with a teasing undertone as he glanced over at me from the driver’s seat. I caught my reflection in the side mirror—I did look nervous. I wasn’t sure if it was the anticipation or the fact that this was officially our first date.
"I’m not nervous," I lied, smoothing down my dress for the fifth time.
"Liar." He smirked, shifting gears as we turned onto a quiet, upscale street.
"I just... I didn’t know where we were going, that’s all. You didn’t say anything."
"That's the point of a surprise date," he said with a wink. "Relax, Fluffy. I’ve got you."
I tried to steady my heartbeat, but it was no use. Everything about Noah tonight was different—from the way he dressed, in a crisp navy suit with the first two buttons undone, to the way his cologne lingered in the air, subtle but intoxicating.
We pulled up in front of a tall, glass-paneled building glowing with warm amber lights. The valet rushed forward to take the car, and before I could even open my door, Noah was already at my side, holding out his hand.
"Come on, Elle."
I stepped out and looked up at the building. "Wait, is this—?"
"Yup. The Grand Novara."
My jaw dropped. "Noah! This place is insanely expensive. I read that a single dish here can cost—"
"I know." He smiled and offered his arm. "But you're worth every dime."
We walked into the restaurant, and I was immediately swallowed by the elegance of it all. The soft lighting, the live string quartet playing in the corner, the gleaming cutlery, and hushed conversations—it was like stepping into another world.
A hostess greeted us, clearly recognizing Noah. "Mr. Roth, your table is ready."
I raised an eyebrow at him as we followed her.
Our table was by the floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the city skyline. The view was breathtaking.
I leaned closer to the glass. "Wow. This is... incredible."
"Not more incredible than you tonight," Noah said, settling across from me.
I blushed and looked down at the menu, even though I wasn’t reading a word. My heart was pounding.
"Order anything you want," he added.
"I feel underdressed," I mumbled, glancing around at the people in gowns and suits.
"You look perfect."
His words made me still. I met his gaze and found sincerity in his eyes. He wasn't trying to flatter me—he meant it.
We placed our orders, and soon enough, we were sipping wine and laughing over stories from school. The initial awkwardness faded quickly, replaced by something warmer, something real.
"Remember when you tripped in the hallway trying to dodge the principal?" I laughed, tears in my eyes.
"In my defense, I was trying to save that squirrel."
"It wasn’t even a real squirrel! It was a stuffed toy someone dropped."
He chuckled, setting down his glass. "Alright, fine. But I looked heroic, right?"
"You looked like an idiot."
He grinned. "Your idiot. Hopefully."
My smile froze slightly. I could sense the mood shifting.
He leaned forward, eyes softer now. "Elle, I know I’ve messed around a lot before, but I’m serious about you. Tonight isn't just about a fancy meal. I wanted to give you something special."
I swallowed, nodding slowly. "I know. And... thank you. This is already more than I imagined."
The dessert came out—rich chocolate mousse with gold flakes. I barely touched it. I was too aware of the look Noah was giving me, the way his fingers fidgeted slightly under the table.
Then he stood.
I blinked. "What are you doing?"
He reached into his jacket and pulled out a small velvet box.
"Noah—"
Before I could say more, one of the waiters approached with a massive bouquet of red and pink roses, wrapped beautifully with silk ribbons.
I gasped.
Noah placed the box gently on the table and pushed it toward me.
He looked straight into my eyes. "What's your reply to my proposal, Elle? Will you be my girlfriend now?"
My breath caught. My vision blurred with tears.
"Noah..." I whispered, voice trembling.
He opened the box, revealing a stunning diamond necklace. The stones sparkled under the candlelight, capturing everyone's attention.
"It’s beautiful," I breathed.
"Not as beautiful as you."
He stood behind me and carefully clasped it around my neck. His fingers brushed my skin, sending shivers down my spine. Then he leaned in and kissed the back of my neck softly.
My eyes fluttered shut.
I turned in my seat, heart racing. Then I stood and faced him.
He looked down at me, eyes searching, waiting.
I didn't wait any longer.
I threw my arms around his neck and kissed him—full, passionate, everything I'd been holding back. His hands wrapped around my waist as he kissed me back just as deeply.
When I finally pulled away, I rested my forehead against his and whispered, "I’ll be your girlfriend, Noah Roth."
He laughed softly, and it was the most beautiful sound I’d ever heard.