Chapter 20_ Daring Stunt

In less than a couple of hours, Kane completed the assigned task and whisked Arya away to the most extravagant restaurant she had ever laid her eyes on. "This place is truly remarkable," Arya marveled as they entered, with Kane leading her to a secluded table in the far corner of the room.

"Yes, it's considered one of the top restaurants in town. While it may not compare to your famous sandwiches, it holds its own," Kane stated politely as he pulled out a chair for Arya before taking a seat across from her.

Arya couldn't help but blush at his compliment and remarked, "You do know how to be charming when you want to be."

"It's not always easy," Kane replied, the excitement in his voice dimming slightly.

"Why is that?" Arya inquired with curiosity.

"Well, I grew up in a loveless marriage. You've been with my father for so long, haven't you?" Kane asked, to which Arya nodded.

"Your father may not be the most affectionate person, but he cares for you deeply. Isn't that why we're in this situation?" Arya pointed out gently, causing Kane to frown.

"He only started caring later on, Arya. He's never been a loving father, and while I've learned to cope with it, it's not always easy to compensate for a parent's shortcomings. But enough about that. You look stunning tonight, Arya," Kane remarked, causing Arya's heart to ache at his words, though she didn't let it show for fear of him thinking she pitied him.

"I'm nothing special," Arya replied softly, a slight blush coloring her cheeks.

"You are more than special. You're the most dedicated and hardworking person I know, and you're even more devoted to your brother. And on top of that, you handle dangerous stalkers with such poise. Your coolness overwhelms me," Kane declared, gazing at Arya with adoration. Her blush deepened as she shyly lowered her head, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

Their meal was soon brought out, and they enjoyed it in comfortable silence, engaging in casual conversation between bites. Arya could feel the wall between her and Kane slowly dissipating.

Eventually, they finished their meal, and the server brought over the bill. Arya caught a glimpse of the amount on the server's discreet folder as they placed it beside Kane's empty plate, causing her eyes to widen.

"My goodness, how many zeros does that add up to?" Arya inquired.

"Don't fret, dear. I'll take care of the bill," Kane reassured her with a grin, but Arya's expression remained unchanged, her frown deepening.

"But your accounts are still frozen," she reminded him, and Kane opened his mouth to respond. However, upon seeing the mischievous glint in his eyes, a wicked smile spread across his features as he nodded at her.

"Ahh, I see. Well, that only leaves us with one option," Kane stated, his grin growing wider.

"What option?" Arya questioned, her lips biting down nervously.

"Escape," Kane exclaimed, his grin almost becoming a full-fledged smile. "We simply stand up, stroll towards the exit as if nothing is amiss...and at the last moment, we make a mad dash for the door."

"That's preposterous," Arya retorted, but Kane only grinned at her.

"I assure you, my dear, it's not. We simply have to trust in my plan." Kane's words hung in the air as Arya fell silent, unsure of what to say. Kane continued, "Your silence is all the confirmation I need. Follow my lead." With that, Kane stood and made his way towards the exit, Arya trailing behind him, attempting to appear nonchalant and at ease.

"You're too uptight, Arya. Just let go and trust in me. Everything will be alright," Kane comforted her when he noticed her awkward demeanor.

"I'm doing my best," Arya replied with a smile, nodding at the waiters they passed by.

Before they knew it, they had reached the exit, and Kane turned to face Arya. "Ready? On the count of three...one, two, three!" In one swift motion, Kane grabbed Arya's hand and bolted towards the door, their laughter echoing through the streets at their daring stunt.

As they arrived at the office building, Arya let out a relieved breath and turned to Kane with worry etched on her face. "What if they come after us, Kane? I've never engaged in such a reckless act before. This is entirely your doing, Kane."

Kane shrugged nonchalantly. "Don't fret, Arya. I happen to be friends with the owner, and I have unlimited credit at that restaurant," he explained, causing Arya to shoot him a pointed look.

Before she could question him further, Kane interrupted, "I just wanted to test your trust in me... and you passed with flying colors. Looks like you're headed to the dark side." He moved closer to her, planting a soft kiss on her forehead, his recurring action.

"You are such a jerk, you know that?" Arya said with a teasing smile, causing Kane to grin smugly.

"Yes, but a charming one. Now let's get back to work. Your little adventure should have relieved some stress, so you can focus on your important meeting." Kane suggested, and Arya couldn't help but realize that she had been tense all day, but now felt a sense of calm and confidence thanks to their escapade. With a grateful smile, she followed Kane inside to prepare for her meeting with Mr. Jackson.

As Arya went over the presentation one last time to ensure perfection, Kane stood by, watching her with a softened expression. "Ready, Tigress?" he asked, to which Arya simply nodded in response. "Good. I know you won't disappoint," he continued, causing a smile to grace Arya's lips. Before making her exit from the office, she leaned down and planted a quick kiss on Kane's cheek, leaving him pleasantly stunned at her bold move. After all, this was the first time she had initiated physical contact between them. As he touched his cheek and let out a chuckle, Kane couldn't help but release a contented sigh.