Ace's POV
I led her to where dinner was already set, this time opting for the outdoor parlor.
The moon poured its silver light over us, casting an almost ethereal glow across the table. The setting was perfect. Romantic, intimate—intentional.
But I chose not to bring up the three kisses she owed me.
Not yet.
Even though, good lord, I was dying to finally kiss her.
I had been fantasizing about it for far too long.
The way her lips would feel against mine.
The way she would react—stiff at first, maybe, but then melting into me.
Would she taste as intoxicating as I imagined?
Would she fight it?
Would she kiss me back?
I was eager, but I wasn't about to rush.
Instead, I let the moment stretch, talking about random things to keep the air light.
I asked her about her childhood.
