The drinks flowed between them, loosening tongues and breaking down any lingering awkwardness.
Laughter came more easily now, each smile brighter and more genuine than the last.
Two hours passed like minutes, and Ashley could feel the warmth of the alcohol spreading through her body.
Her cheeks were flushed, her movements a little softer, a little more languid.
Every glance from Ross seemed to linger a fraction longer, every joke a little more intimate, and she found herself smiling more than she had in weeks.
As the conversation continued, Ashley felt a pleasant heaviness creeping into her limbs.
Her eyelids drooped slightly, and her head leaned just a little closer to Ross as if drawn by some invisible force.
But when she opened her eyes again, she froze. Ross's lips were already pressed against hers.
"Hmmmm…" Ashley's soft gasp betrayed her surprise.
