The two of you walk around

As your grandfather walked away to join your mother, Jessica stepped closer to you. Without a word of hesitation, she reached out and smoothly took your hand, her fingers interlacing with yours. She began to lead you out toward the wide, stone terrace that overlooked the estate's sprawling gardens.

As the two of you walked side by side, your hands locked, a strange, surreal sensation washed over you. She moved with such natural ease, holding your hand so comfortably, that to anyone looking from afar, you would have looked exactly like a couple that had been blissfully together for years. You found yourself looking around the corner of the veranda, a sudden thought crossing your mind: I am incredibly glad my mother didn't see this.

The two of you reached a quieter, shaded pathway lined with vibrant pink bougainvillea, the the ocean waves crashing against the cliffs in the background.

"You're very quiet, William," Jessica noted, tilting her head to look at you, her blonde fringe shifting slightly to reveal a piercing, beautiful gaze. "Am I making you nervous?"

You took a deep breath, stopping beneath the shade of a large palm tree. You looked down at her, seeing the flawless texture of her sun-kissed skin, the definition of her shoulders, and the sheer elegance she possessed. The urge to be completely honest took over.

"To be completely honest... I have a bit of a crush on you," you admitted, the confession slipping out before you could overthink it. "I've seen your work."

Jessica let out a soft, delighted laugh, her eyes crinkling at the corners. She stepped a fraction closer, her free hand coming up to rest lightly against your chest, right over your racing heart. "A crush on me? Are you sure you don't mean my daughter? Most boys your age are usually looking for her, you know."