Falling For My Ex's Dad (Clarissa and Gabriel) novel Chapter 69

Chapter 69: Who Is Angelique 

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As I stepped into the lobby, my eyes immediately found Daniel. He stood near the entrance, looking handsome in a tailored black suit that practically screamed expensive. His dark hair was slicked back neatly. 

When our eyes met, his face brightened. His lips curved into a warm, genuine smile that made me second guess myself for a second. I wasn’t expecting him to light up like that. 

I walked toward him slowly, feeling his gaze fix on me, watching every step I took. It made me slightly self–conscious, even though I had spent time carefully choosing my outfit. I had picked an ocean–blue dress that hugged my figure in all the right ways. 

My hair was styled in a loose, curly bun with soft strands framing my face. I felt beautiful, but the intensity of his stare made me question myself. 

When I finally stood before him, Daniel’s eyes scanned me from head to toe with a look of genuine appreciation before locking onto mine. 

1. me. 

“You look stunning, Clairessa,” he breathed, his tone filled with admiration as his hand stretched toward 

I gave a polite smile, slipping my hand into his, though my heart didn’t skip the way it was supposed to at his words. “You don’t look so bad yourself,” I teased lightly, glancing at his suit. “Very dapper.” 

His grin widened, flashing a perfect set of white teeth. “For you, I had to make an effort,” he replied, his voice playful yet sincere. 

I laughed softly, not wanting to ruin the moment even though my heart felt heavy. As we began walking toward the restaurant, I tried to push my conflicted thoughts aside. 

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2129 thu, 20 Febies 

Chapter 69: Who Is Angelique 

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The restaurant was classy and intimate, with soft piano music playing in the background and just a few other diners scattered around. The lighting was golden, making everything feel inviting yet fancy. 

A tall, red–haired hostess greeted us with a charming smile and led us to a private table by the window. The view was breathtaking, but I struggled to appreciate it. My thoughts were too tangled, too conflicted. 

Daniel pulled out a chair for me, his hand brushing lightly against my back as I sat down. I offered a quiet “thank you,” trying not to seem as tense as I felt. 

As he took the seat beside me, his eyes stayed on mine, warm and full of excitement. “I’m glad you came.” His expression was open and genuine. 

I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. A part of me wished I hadn’t come, wished I’d just stayed in my room to avoid any more complications. But I forced a smile anyway, not wanting to seem ungrateful. “I’m happy I did.” The words felt heavier than I intended, and I wasn’t even sure if I believed them. 

Daniel leaned forward slightly, his lips curving into a teasing smile. “You know, if I’d known how stunning you’d look tonight, I’d have planned a bigger evening. You’re making the other women here jealous,” he said with a playful glint in his eye. 

I let out a soft laugh, brushing off his words even as my cheeks warmed slightly. “You’re exaggerating.” 

“I’m not,” his tone was serious now. As his gaze held mine. “You’re beautiful, Clairessa. Truly.” 

His words were sweef, but they didn’t reach my heart the way I think he hoped they would. I wanted to appreciate him, to let myself relax and enjoy the night, but my emotions were a mess. I came to dinner with the clear intention of setting boundaries, but his kindness made me unsure of my next actions. 

Daniel’s brow furrowed slightly, as if sensing my inner conflict. He reached across the table, his hand brushing lightly against mine. “Relax,” his voice was soft and reassuring. “It’s just dinner. No pressure.” 

I nodded slowly, taking a sip of water to steady myself. His gesture was thoughtful, but I still felt out of place–like I didn’t belong in this moment. 

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17:39 Thu, 20 Feb 

Chapter 69: Who Is Angelique 

His hand lingered briefly before he pulled back, his gaze never leaving mine. “Clairessa,” he began, his tone shifting, “I know you took a chance coming here tonight, especially with everything that’s happened with Gabriel these past days, and—” 

“It’s alright,” I interrupted gently, brushing my hand against his. “I simply work for Mr. Storm. He doesn’t own me or dictate what I choose to do with my free time.” I smirked slightly. “So I’m choosing to spend the evening having a really good dinner with you.” 

His eyes lit up again. “I’m glad to hear you say that. I promise to make tonight memorable for you.” 

“Daniel,” I said softly, “everything looks perfect as it is. Thank you for taking the time to plan this.* 

“There’s so much I have to say to you. So much to express,” his voice held a passion that frightened me. “But I’ll take it slow, just for tonight,” 

Instinctively I withdrew my hand from his, remembering the real reason I came–to set things straight. I wasn’t here to start something new, and I didn’t want to hurt him. 

I took a deep breath, as I attempted to find the right words. “Daniel… the truth is, I don’t want to-” 

Before I could finish, the waiter appeared at the table, his presence breaking the tension. I leaned back into my seat, grateful for the interruption as I exhaled quietly. 

Daniel and the waiter exchanged a few words, their conversation quick and seamless. Finally, Daniel turned back to me, his expression light. 

“I’ve taken the liberty to order for us unless there’s something special you’d like added,” he gestured lightly 

toward the menu. 

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17:39 Thu, 20 Feb 

Chapter 69: Who Is Angelique 

I shook my head softly, forcing a small smile. “Unmm… It’s fine. I’m sure whatever you ordered will be great.” 

His lips shifted into a satisfied smile. “Thank you for trusting my judgment.” He turned back to the waiter to finalize the order before sending him away. 

As the waiter walked off, Daniel’s eyes sparkled with that same excitement he had all night. “So, you were going to tell me something.” 

I clasped my hands in my lap, my gaze dropping briefly before I forced myself to meet his eyes. “I was going to say, Daniel… All of this is nice, and I’m grateful. But the truth is, with the entire situation involving Mr. Storm and my past relationship…” my voice cut off, unsure of how to finish. 

Daniel’s brows furrowed slightly as he leaned back, crossing his arms loosely. “I understand that the situation with Gabriel is… complicated,” his tone was measured. “And I can imagine he might’ve said some unpleasant things about me.” 

I shook my head firmly, leaning forward slightly. “That’s the thing, Daniel. Gabriel hasn’t said much at all. He told me to stay away from you, but he didn’t say why.”