It Should Have Been Like This (The Revised Version)

Chapter 81: A Fresh Start

I preened in front of the mirror, my eyes critically examining the elegant dress that clung to my figure. The fit-and-flare skater dress featured long sleeves and a round neckline, creating a classic, feminine silhouette. The bold color scheme of black and white provided a striking visual contrast, drawing the eye inward.

The pattern of the dress was particularly captivating, with vertical stripes that followed the contours of the bodice before fanning out along the skirt. The stripes were punctuated by delicate, crochet-inspired detailing, adding a touch of visual interest and depth to the design. This dynamic pattern created an almost optical illusion effect, lending a sense of movement and energy to the garment.

The hemline of the skirt fell just above my knees, striking a balance between elegance and practicality.

"Hmm," I mused, stroking my chin thoughtfully. As I evaluated the dress from various angles, I couldn't help but feel that it was better suited for non-work related occasions, such as a classy date or a stylish party, rather than a professional office setting. I picked up the hem of the dress, twisting it slightly as I glanced down at the pointed-toe pumps I had paired with the ensemble.

The reason for my apprehension was clear—this dress had been selected by my friends, Anna, Ginger, Tyra, and Suzanne, who had gone on a shopping spree to outfit me for my return to the workforce. Anna and Tyra had insisted that I wear this particular dress as "compensation" for their decent choices because if it was left to them, they'd turn me into an office slut.

After all, I can't change it. I wasn't officially starting my new position today; this was merely a day to get acquainted with the office and my colleagues. I could afford to experiment with my personal style, and I wanted to strike a balance between professionalism and my own unique flair.

I carefully placed a small makeup kit in my bag, along with my phone, wallet, and other necessary items. Excitement bubbled within me as I bounced down the staircase, each step fueled by enthusiastic energy.

Nic stood by the car, engaged in a phone call. As I approached him, his eyes roamed over my body, and a broad smile spread across his face. Nic stretched out his hand, and I eagerly took it, entwining our fingers. He pulled me gently towards him, retracting his hand to wrap his strong arm around my waist, drawing me closer.

Gazing deeply into my eyes, his expression conveyed the words he couldn't voice while on the phone call: "You look breathtaking."

I giggled, my hands instinctively pressing down on his firm chest as he pulled me even closer. "Thank you," I whispered, my heart fluttering at his affectionate gesture.

Nic beamed, his smiling eyes radiating warmth and adoration. I glanced over my shoulder, mesmerized by the gentle circles his hand traced on the small of my back. Hypnotized by the tender touch, I turned to face him, cupping his cheeks and pulling his head down, pressing my lips against his in a passionate kiss.

Rominic was momentarily taken aback by the abruptness of the situation, a shock that made him freeze for the first few seconds. But then, the sound of the call disconnecting reached my ears, and shortly after, his strong arms encircled my body, pulling me close.

Our lips met in a passionate, yet tender embrace, moving in perfect synchrony. Rominic did not immediately deepen the kiss, instead occasionally brushing his tongue against my lips, only to withdraw it just as quickly. Every kiss we shared felt like the first, imbued with a sense of freshness and wonder, despite the difference in urgency, intensity, and passion.

Rominic gently placed his hand on my cheek, tracing slow, delicate circles before pulling away. As he did so, I could still feel the lingering tingle on my lips, and he pressed a soft, reverent kiss upon them. Slowly, he removed his hands from my body and rested his forehead against mine. Our breathing was uneven, yet his was more stable than mine, as if he were trying to ground us both in the moment.