Heather's POV

Kayden stepped out of the cozy wooden house, carrying dishes of food in both hands. He placed them carefully on the gazebo table, which was already beautifully set. My breath caught as I whispered, “Wow, you went to such lengths to prepare all this.”

“I just want to impress you,” he muttered, his voice soft but sincere.

I couldn’t help but smile as I glanced at the smoked, grilled salmon. My stomach growled in anticipation. Without waiting,I took a bite. The taste melted on my tongue.

“Damn, you’ve really outdone yourself. It’s delicious! Are you secretly taking cooking lessons or something?” I teased, though my words were muffled...