date with priti
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Atlas had woken up early, ensuring that every detail of the day was perfect. For the past few weeks, he had been spending more time with Priti. What had begun as a simple friendship had grown into something deeper. Each day, she had unknowingly crept further into his heart, until one morning he realized that he could no longer go a day without seeing her.
Of course, such a grand gesture could not have been done alone. Adeline and Thea had been helping him all morning bring his plan to life. As Atlas stepped out of the house, Thea handed him the bouquet of red roses, timeless symbols of passion and love.
When he arrived at the home where she stayed, Atlas took a deep breath before knocking gently on the door, greeted by one of the maids. “Good morning, I am here to see Miss Priti. Will you inform her that Lord Dela—Atlas has arrived?” he said, quickly correcting himself. The maid smiled kindly, leading him inside before asking him to wait while she fetched Priti.
Atlas anxiously fidgeted with the roses in his hands. But as soon as he heard her familiar voice, his nerves settled, and all his worries seemed to fade.
“Lord Delaney!” she greeted, curtsying with grace. As Atlas stepped forward to meet her, he smiled, shaking his head gently. “Priti, how many times must I remind you to call me Atlas? And there’s truly no need for such formalities.” His voice was warm, teasing. He then offered her the roses. “I brought these for you,” he said softly, his gaze sincere. “I would be honored if you’d accept my invitation to take a stroll with me through the ton. I have a special place in mind I wish to show you.”
He recalled how she had mentioned missing her horses and the joy of riding back home, so he had carefully planned their date around that. They made their way to the Delaney stables, where two horses awaited, adorned with delicate flowers. “The idea of decorating them with flowers was Adeline’s,” he said with a small laugh. “She thought it might make the moment more romantic.” His smile deepened. “If it’s not already obvious, I thought we might take a ride. And, before you protest, one of the maids will assist you in changing into the proper attire.”
As he finished speaking, a maid approached Priti, leading her away to change. As Atlas went to go do the same.
When she returned, dressed in her riding attire, he took both of her hands in his and grinned. “You look absolutely stunning, Priti,” he whispered in her ear, as he pressed a soft kiss to her cheek.
They soon arrived at the spot Atlas had chosen, a secluded meadow surrounded by blooming wildflowers. At its center was a blanket, carefully arranged for their picnic. Atlas led Priti to it, his steps filled with quiet excitement. He poured two glasses of white wine from a bottle he had brought.
“I’ve been wanting to do this for some time,” he began, his voice low as he handed her a glass. “I know we’ve yet to make things official, and I must confess that I am partly to blame for that. Still, I thank you for your patience in all of this.” He took a breath, his gaze steady on hers. “This evening, this moment, is my way of showing you that I want more than mere friendship. I wish to pursue this… us.”
He paused, gently rubbing her cheek with his thumb. “I want us to continue seeing each other, but not just as friends."
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@Caticorn <3