She leaned slightly forward, taking in the tray of appetizers as it was set before them. The fruit was arranged with a meticulous, almost intimate artistry, each piece vibrant and inviting. She let her fingers hover just above the platter, as if feeling the care in its arrangement.

“Look at this exquisite,” she murmured, her gaze flicking up to him. “Just like the two of us.”

Calvin’s smirk returned, teasing but gentle. “Careful you might make me forget my manners and reach for your hand across the table.”

“Try it, and you’ll regret not letting me do the same.” Her eyes glimmered with a spark, a subtle challenge that sent...