Carlos's POV
I smiled at her, though exhaustion weighed heavily on my face. Sleep tugged at my eyelids, and the alcohol I'd consumed didn't help. Still, my mood wasn't sour.
I patted my lap. "Come sit here with me. Let's watch the stars together."
"…"
Grace moved toward me slowly, then settled on the bed's edge instead. "You look worn out, Carlos. Maybe you should just sleep."
"Can't hear you from there, Gracie," I said. "Come closer."
Grace rolled her eyes, and I could tell she thought it was the same old trick. She clearly disliked playing games anyway. Without hesitation, she stood and settled directly onto my lap.
"Whoa—wait," I reacted instinctively. "Didn't think you'd actually do it."
"What? Don't like it? Fine then." Grace started to rise from my lap, but I quickly gripped her waist, keeping her against me.
"Just caught me off guard. Of course I don't want you to leave," I said. "I'm happy you're here with me. Tonight feels lonely without you."
