4

I smiled warmly, reminiscing about how we used my favourite stuffed animal as the god. My mother would play the evil monster, and we'd have an absolute blast. "I'm sorry, I rambled on too much. You didn't ask for all that," I realized, feeling a tad embarrassed. Yet, in that moment, Dimitri seemed less like a stranger and more like someone I had known my entire life.

"It's fine," he smiles at me, a slight dimple appearing on his cheeks. "It's getting late, and I need to close up. Would you mind waiting outside? I can walk you home."

"Sure, that sounds nice," I reply, slipping my heels back on and rising to my feet, trying to conceal my blushing cheeks and giddy smile. Dimitri guides me to the door and disappears inside while I wait beneath the radiant moonlight.

The night is warm, the sky is clear, and countless stars twinkle above. The streets are deserted, and I realize I have lost track of time. I glance at my phone and see that it's 1 AM. Have I been here that long?

Dimitri emerges from the door, locking it behind him, and approaches me. "Ready?" I nod, and we begin walking down the street towards my apartment. As we stroll, our conversation flows endlessly, touching on various topics. We start with the basics, like our origins and professions, but the discussions never grow dull. Dimitri proves to be an intriguing person, although his mysterious side adds a hint of intimidation.

"I have another question for you," I say, and his smile widens. "Where do you find your inspiration?"

"It's quite simple, actually," he chuckles, glancing at me. "Beauty. If something or someone strikes me as beautiful, it inspires me. It's a common trait among artists. Beautiful things are my weakness."

"Ah, that makes sense," I nod, now feeling a bit foolish for asking the question.

"I have a question for you this time," he says after a brief silence, and I grin, realizing that I had been the one posing all the questions throughout the night. "How did you become so knowledgeable about art?" I smile, knowing this question would come up sooner or later. "My father is an art professor. He taught me everything I know."

"Can you draw or paint then?" he inquires.

"Not at all," I laugh, shaking my head. "Sadly, that was one skill he didn't pass on to me. I wish he had." Throughout my childhood, I had always longed to possess the artistic talent of my father. I envied those classmates who effortlessly sketched impressive drawings on their papers. After a few more minutes of walking and talking, we arrive at my apartment building. I feel a tinge of sadness, wishing our time together didn't have to end. Dimitri has been an engrossing conversationalist, breathing life into every subject. "This is me."

We stand facing each other in front of the stairs, uncertain of what to do. "I had a wonderful time with you tonight, Calliope. I hope we meet again soon," Dimitri finally says, his hands buried in his pockets.

"Me too. Goodbye, Dimitri Kouris, the artist," I smile. He chuckles softly and waves farewell as I ascend the steps and reach the door. "Goodbye, Calliope," his voice reaches me as the door closes. I wave at him through the small window before watching him disappear from view.

Tonight has been the most enjoyable evening I've had in a while. Dimitri has added an extra layer of fascination with his captivating charm, which still takes my breath away whenever I glance at him or gaze upon him for a moment too long. Although we didn't exchange numbers, deep down, I have a feeling we will cross paths again. It may not be tomorrow or next week, but I know our meeting is not over. Hopefully, it will be sooner rather than later.