When she lifted her gaze to meet his, their eyes locked. The sincerity and concern in his eyes made Emerald’s chest tighten. She wanted to cry.

“H-huh?” she stammered, taking a deep breath to hold back her emotions. “J-just a little…”

The sound of water flowing from the faucet stopped as Alaric turned it off. Emerald’s heart pounded louder and faster. When she looked at him again, she couldn’t hold herself back anymore.

Her hand reached up, grasping his loose tie, and she stood on tiptoe to give him a gentle kiss. Alaric quickly responded, his hands sliding up to her underarms, and in one swift motion, he lifted her...