Ryan smirked, that familiar, sly glint returning. "What?" he replied, feigning innocence. "Can't a husband kiss his wife?" There was a playful confidence in his tone, an edge that was new to her. The redness on his face betrayed him, though, revealing his own surprise at his boldness.
She laughed softly, reaching up to pat his cheek, the warmth of her hand lingering. "Why now?" she teased, arching a brow, her curiosity piqued.
But before he could respond, she grabbed him by the collar, pulling him back toward her with a fierceness that surprised them both. Her fingers threaded through his hair, and she kissed him with a newfound intensity, letting her emotions speak for her. He tensed for a moment, caught off guard, but soon his arms wrapped around her, grounding them both.
