Chapter 552

Lily laughed, hugging the bouquet of roses. Alexander felt no sense of accomplishment; her laughter didn't sound appreciative. It felt mocking.

His face darkened. He grabbed her waist, pulling her close. "You don't like them?"

"Of course I do. They're beautiful!" She laughed and nodded.

"Are you sure?" he questioned.

"Yes, why?" She nodded more convincingly.

"Then what are you laughing at?"

Lily's laughter intensified.

"Stop laughing!" Alexander demanded, kissing her fully on the lips. This, he hoped, would quell her mocking laughter. He was annoyed with himself. A wave of helplessness washed over him. They were only just beginning, and it wasn't going well. Should he continue with his plan?

He was already regretting his decision. He shouldn't have taken Edward's advice. The man had no experience with women. This was the result of two romantically inexperienced men concocting a date—searching online for suggestions that clearly weren't very good.

After the long, passionate kiss, Lily felt her body temperature rising. It had also stopped her laughter. "Thank you for the flowers. I really love them," she whispered, staring at the slightly crushed roses.

Alexander was finally satisfied. This was the reaction he'd wanted.

"Shall we leave then? It's getting colder," he asked softly, leading her toward his car. Then, remembering his plan, he said, "Wait a minute, let me show you something."

Lily sensed something was amiss. He released her hand and pulled something from his coat pocket: sparklers. Instead of being long and straight, they were bent at odd angles, reminding Lily of wilting sunflowers.

Alexander was equally surprised. Shock and confusion were evident on his face. Lily wanted to laugh at his expression, but knowing it would hurt his pride, she coughed and said, "Are these sparklers? Do you want to light them?"

"Sure, let's do it," Alexander nodded, though unsure if they would even ignite. His original plan was to use them as a signal for Edward. He'd accidentally folded them in his pocket and now wondered if they'd still work.