"Alright. I'll just get dressed." Lucas nonchalantly declared, rising from his seat with a casual ease that contrasted sharply with the air of anticipation lingering in the room. As he exited the room, his confident strides leaving an impression, Eloise turned her attention to her luggage. She embarked on the task of rummaging through it, her fingers swiftly seeking out something more casual yet effortlessly stylish.
Opting for a tank top paired with well-fitted jeans, shorts, and comfortable flip-flops, Eloise aimed for an understated look. She knew the art of flying under the radar well, intending to maintain a low profile and keep her return a secret from her family. The last thing she wanted was to be swept into the orchestrated romantic endeavors her father had undoubtedly conjured in her absence.
Although she was confident that her father must have caught wind of her departure from France, Eloise wasn't worried about facing his wrath. On the contrary, she anticipated his joy at her return. However, she was well aware that this joy would come with strings attached – the mansion, the arranged dates, the entire orchestrated charade that awaited her.
Descending the grand staircase in her chosen ensemble, Eloise caught sight of Lucas, impeccably dressed in rugged jeans and a blue shirt that accentuated his physique. He looked like he could effortlessly grace the cover of an Abercrombie catalog. A playful thought danced through her mind, 'Sure, there are plenty of attractive men in France, but Lucas takes the cake with his undeniable allure.'
Lucas possessed a gaze that could send shivers down a woman's spine, and his robust physique had the power to leave onlookers in awe. His face, sculpted by the gods themselves, was a masterpiece that any man would envy.
"Did I pass?" Lucas mischievously said, a playful glint in his eyes as he observed Eloise's reaction. Her subtle drool didn't go unnoticed by him.
Eloise just smirked, unfazed by Lucas's teasing. He was known for being a bit too full of himself, but she had grown accustomed to his antics. There was no denying that he had certain qualities to boast about, though.
"Let's go!" Eloise took the lead, striding confidently out with Lucas trailing behind her. The sun hung high in the sky as they entered the bustling city.
As they prepared to launch into whatever awaited them outside, Eloise couldn't help but marvel at the presence of this dangerously attractive man by her side. Little did she know that this partnership would unravel a series of unexpected events, forever altering the course of her return and her seemingly simple life.
Arriving at the mall, the lively atmosphere of shoppers and visitors filled the air. They made their way to the second floor, where the boutiques were clustered.
"Just be quick, okay?" Lucas reminded her, his impatience evident.
"I don't want to! I'm afraid I have to disagree," Eloise retorted, a playful glint in her eyes. She was determined to take her time and find the perfect gown. After all, she wanted to make a lasting impression.
Eloise mulled over the idea that, upon her return, she wouldn't give Justin and Madison the satisfaction of seeing her in a less-than-stellar state.
'I am Eloise Wilson, and I live to intimidate people around me. I can't wait to see Justin and Madison's reaction when they see me with Lucas,' she thought, envisioning the surprise and envy on their faces.
As they ventured into the maze of boutiques, Eloise sifted through racks of dresses, searching for that one gown that would exude confidence and elegance. Lucas, though impatient, couldn't help but be captivated by Eloise's determination and grace as she navigated through the choices.
The quest for the perfect gown became more than just a shopping trip; it was a statement. Eloise was out to show that she could rise above any challenge and look stunning while doing so. The air of anticipation hung around them as Eloise's shopping adventure unfolded, promising an unforgettable moment when she finally stepped out in her chosen attire.