Chapter 0025 Serenas POV Its just dinner with Calvin , nothing more , I remind myself , trying to play it cool . Even though I tell myself its just a casual catch up , the nerves and excitement I feel say otherwise , I consider the midnight blue dress , its fit is perfect for accentuating my curves and a neckline thats just the right kind of bold . Imagining Calvins impressed look has me second guessing is it too daring ? Eventually , I decided against it . Choosing comfort and confidence , I go for the familiar little black dress and my favorite heels stylish yet comfortable for the entire evening . Im pacing around my living room , back and forth , waiting for Calvin to show up . 1 keep checking the clock , wondering when hes going to get here . Just as Im doing another lap across the room , my phone buzzes with a text from Calvin : Im here . Almost on cue , theres a knock at the door . My heart skips a beat . Here we go . I open the door , and instantly , my heart skips a beat . Calvin is there , looking nothing like the man I first met . The usual stubble is gone , revealing a clean shaven face that makes his jawline even more pronounced . Hes wearing a sleek , charcoal gray suit tailored to perfection . And he smells like luxury , with a rich , woodsy scent . thats both subtle and captivating . Wow , Serena , you look great , Calvin says with a smile , his eyes lighting up- Thanks , Calvin . Wow , you clean up nice , I manage to say , feeling a bit flustered as I take in his sleek look . My words tumble out with a nervous laugh Ready to go ? Calvin asks . I just nod , still a bit caught up in how different he looks tonight . … and then he realized he was wearing his shirt inside out the whole meeting ! Calvin ends his story with a chuckle . Were in a cozy corner at Soleil et Lune Bistro . As Calvin tells me about his friend , who was hungover and totally lost during an important meeting , I cant help but laugh along . So , thats why you dont drink much ? I ask , still chuckling . Yeah , you could say that , Calvin replies with a smile . But its mostly because I realized Im not getting any younger . I need to start taking better care of myself . Cant afford to get wasted anymore . Well , cheers to being sober , I say , raising my glass . To being sober , he echoes . We clink our glasses filled with sparkling water . Calvin didnt even question when I opted out of wine . He just goes with it , making me feel related and comfortable being around him . After taking a big gulp of my sparkling water , I set the glass down and say , By the way , thanks for inviting me out tonight . The pleasure is all mine , Serena , he replies with a warm smile . Im truly thankful to Calvin . I never imagined Id be at ease with anyone from Bills family . But maybe its easy because hes just so kind . +25 BONUS Chapter 0025 The waiter brings our meal to the table . I have Coq au Vin , chicken cooked in a rich wine sauce with mushrooms and onions . Calvin has Bouillabaisse , a colorful seafood stew with fish , mussels , and shrimp , served with toasted bread on the side . Everything looks and sinells amazing . So , have you thought about your plans … after you and Bill arent together anymore ? Calvin asks . I remember him asking me the e question once before in the hospital hallway . But unlike last time , I now have a clear answer . Well , Im about to start a handcrafted jewelry business . My friend , Stevie , is going to help me out . My parents are on board as investors too . Calvin falls silent for a moment and absentmindedly scratches his right brow with his thumb . Seeing his reaction , I cant help but feel a bit anxious . Is there something wrong with what I said ? I ask , my brows knitting together in concern . No , not at all , Calvin quickly reassures me , I think its great you want to become an entrepreneur . Its just that the jewelry business can be tough to break into . My dad thought the same way , I say . But when I showed him how I can make it profitable and shared some of my samples , he stopped doubting me . Id love to see some of your handcrafted jewelry , Calvin expresses . Theyre right here , I reply , gesturing to my earrings , necklace , and bracelet . May I take a closer look ? Calvin asks . Of course , I say , extending my left arm towards him . As his fingers gently touch my skin to get a better look at the bracelet , a spark of electricity seems to pass between us Calvins fingers carefully explore the bracelet , tracing the delicate filigree work and gliding over the sapphire gemstones embedded in the design . Chanter 0026 In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.