The word hung in the air between them like a promise. Lia's cheeks flushed deeper, and for a moment, neither of them moved.
The lamplight seemed to dim everything else around them, creating a private world where only they existed.
"Anything," she whispered back, her voice barely audible but carrying absolute certainty.
Ren reached up slowly, giving her every chance to pull away. His fingers traced along her jawline, gentle but deliberate.
Her skin was warm despite the cold air, and he could feel the slight tremor that ran through her at his touch.
"You're sure?" he asked, his thumb brushing across her cheek.
Instead of answering with words, Lia rose up on her tiptoes, closing the remaining distance between them.
Their lips met in a kiss that was soft at first, tentative, almost questioning. Then her hands found the front of his shirt, pulling him closer, and the kiss deepened.
