Alisha smiled faintly, though her heart pounded so hard she thought it might leap out of her chest. The moment he leaned in earlier, brushing his chin against her cheek instead of kissing her, she had felt a rush of embarrassment and disappointment. It was clear now—Zeriel was teasing her, pulling her strings like he always did.
She pressed her palms against her lap, trying to calm the tingling sensation racing through her body. She had been ready for that kiss, her lips parted in anticipation, only for him to slip away with that knowing smirk.
He's enjoying this, she thought, biting down on her lower lip. He knows exactly how nervous I am.
Moments later, the sound of footsteps returned. Zeriel reappeared, holding a silver tray balanced effortlessly in his hands. A glass bowl filled with popcorn, a chilled bottle of red wine, and two gleaming glasses rested neatly upon it.
