The sound of running water drowned out Joel Russo's footsteps.
When a pair of hands suddenly wrapped around her waist, followed by a firm, warm chest pressing against her back, Arabella Vanderbilt's body instantly stiffened.
The man's familiar, crisp scent enveloped her, his warm breath spraying on her earlobe, brushing her skin with each exhale.
His voice was deep, smooth, and alluring, "I thought you'd ignore me for quite a long time."
Arabella's rigid body gradually relaxed, and upon hearing Joel Russo's words, she slightly turned her head.
Bright light flowed over her elegantly small nose, her long eyelashes trembling lightly, and her lips parted to let out a faint but enchanting sound.
"Why would I ignore you?"
"You were very upset this afternoon, and I was the one who lost my temper first."
Arabella set the plate in her hand aside, wiped her hands on the apron, and then placed her chilly hands on one of Joel Russo's that was encircling her waist.
