Page 32 of A Minute Past Midnight

Natural light poured through oversized windows, and beyond them were views that made the entire house feel like its own private escape.

The backyard stretched into a picturesque landscape of manicured greenery, mature trees, and a peaceful view of the pool in the distance.

I designed this house to fit my personality—bold yet classy.

Juliana slowly turned in a circle. “This is beautiful, Samir.”

“Thank you.”

She stepped farther into the living room. The furniture was elegant but comfortable, with cream and deep earth tones, oversized sofas, textured accent chairs, and a massive stone fireplace that reached toward the ceiling. Above us hung an elaborate chandelier that caught the light every time the sun moved behind the clouds.

Juliana looked up. “You got chandeliers everywhere?”

“Damn near.”

She laughed. “Why?”

“Because I like nice shit.”

“That much is obvious. Did you design and build this yourself?”

“I did, but I had a little help with the building process. I built it with a family in mind.”

I watched as she continued to scope my place before those arms went around her again, letting me know that she was uncomfortable.

“Spit it out, Cinderella.”

“Are you sure it’s over between you and her?”

“It’s completely done. I wouldn’t play you out like that, baby, and I wouldn’t bring you here if I were still engaging with her. She’s blocked on everything. She can’t even leave me a voicemail if she wanted to.”

“What if she decides to show up?”

“She knows nothing about this place. Don’t worry yourself, beloved. You are the first and only woman who has and will be the only one who can put her feet on my couch.” I smirked.

She laughed. “Yeah, okay, sir. I guess I can believe you.”

I shook my head. “Come on.”

I showed her the dining room, then the sitting area near the back windows before taking her into the kitchen.

That was where she stopped. Her mouth fell open. “Oh my God.”

I leaned against the oversized island.

“What?”

“This kitchen.”

The chef’s kitchen had everything I could’ve wanted—custom cabinetry, marble countertops, high-end appliances, double ovens, and a massive refrigerator. Pendant lights hung over the island, while another chandelier sat above the breakfast table near the windows.

Juliana walked around slowly. “You actually cook in here?”

“Sometimes.” I shrugged.

She gave me a skeptical look. “You? Cook?”

“I know how to cook, Cinderella. Don't sleep on ya boy.”