Ashley's expression was all smiles as she happily returned to eating, oblivious to Tanaga's intense stare.
Her previous stress subsided as she briefly forgot her problems and concentrated on her supper.
But Tanaga eyed her with calm absorption and admiration, and he stayed thinking.
Her rapid mood swings and her effortless ability to find joy in the little things, even after talking about something as nerve-wracking as meeting her family, captivated him.
Ashley was ready to cut into her meal when Tanaga's phone rang, ruining the moment.
The sound interrupted the silence and grabbed their attention. Uncertain if the message was for him or Ashley, Tanaga squinted and fumbled for his phone. With a glance, both of them seemed curious.
"Is it yours?" Ashley questioned her fork centimeters from her lips.
