The space between them narrowed. For a moment, Ruby hesitated, her breath catching, her heart pounding in her chest. Then slowly, Stefan cupped her cheek, his thumb tracing her skin gently.
"I want this to work," he whispered.
Ruby nodded. "Me too."
His lips brushed against hers softly—tentative, careful, full of meaning. She let her eyes fall closed, her hands sliding up to his shoulders as the kiss deepened, sweet and lingering. There was no rush, no desperation—just tenderness, connection, and warmth.
When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless.
Stefan rested his forehead against hers, smiling. "Well, that was..."
"Long overdue," Ruby finished for him, laughing softly. She wouldn't admit it to him but she missed kissing him more than anything.
