Xavier's mind raced, trying to process Ariel's unexpected comment. He couldn't deny that he had been holding back, trying to respect her boundaries and give her the space she needed. But her words had caught him off guard, making him question his own actions.

Before he could respond, a surge of emotions overwhelmed Xavier. The longing, the regret, and the desire that had been building up inside him suddenly took control. Unable to resist any longer, he leaned in and captured Ariel's lips in a passionate kiss.

Ariel's eyes widened in surprise, but instead of pulling away, she found herself melting into the kiss. The flood of emotions that had...