Suddenly, almost without realizing it, Ava found her fingers intertwined with Ethan's—his grip firm yet gentle, like a silent promise.
Together, with an effortless grace, the two of them stepped into the elegantly lit living room, where the golden afternoon light filtered through sheer curtains, casting a warm glow on everything it touched.
Their entrance was magnetic, commanding the attention of every eye in the room.
For a brief, breathless moment, his entire family stood frozen, captivated by the sight of them.
All except Mason—Ethan's father—who sat rigidly in the corner, his eyes narrowed and unreadable.
His gaze wasn't just cold; it was analytical, almost like a seasoned chess player scrutinizing his opponent's next move. It was clear he wasn't ready to accept what he was seeing.
"Well, if it isn't the stars of the day," Rebecca quipped with a bright smile as she rose from her seat, her tone playful but tinged with genuine warmth.