Page 97 of Pretender

“Favourite holiday?”

“Florence.”

I’m about to ask another question, but I’m stuck with my mouth open.

“Really? But we didn’t go anywhere.”

“What’s your favourite holiday?” he asks, tilting his head.

“Probably my summer in France with Jamie, Sophie, and a few more from our dorms. We cycled and travelled on canal boats down the country and then took the train back home.”

“That does sound fun.”

“No food poisoning to write home about,” I say, my ears blushing at the memories and I touch my hair to check they’re covered.

“Ah, see, that’s where I think Florence has the upper hand. Memorable, if nothing else.”

I playfully flick his forearm. “I’m still trying to find a spell to make you forget it.”

“I’ll never.” He winks and takes a big bite of his baguette.

Oh gosh, that’s mortifying. Although, it wasn’t all bad, I guess.

“Actually, I did quite enjoy watching a movie with you,” I say, holding his gaze, surprising myself.

“Same.”

“Want to do it again?”

“Hm.” He breaks eye contact. Is he looking at my lips?

“What does that little grunt mean?”

“Right now it means I was picturing something else I’d like to do with you again,” he says, his voice low, making my stomach flutter.

Aiden breathes out, and I lift my gaze to his. His eyes flit between mine and down to my mouth. I’m sure of it this time.

“Aiden?”

He licks his lips, tucking in his bottom lip in that dangerous way. “Yes.”

Still looking at my mouth.

“Are you saying you want to kiss me?” I’ve no clue where this bravery comes from, but I want him so badly. I just need to know what he’s thinking first.

A smile splits his face.

“I am.”

My heart lurches, and all I do is stare at him.

“May I?” He tilts his head, his gaze flicking between my mouth and my eyes.

“Why?” I whisper, my pulse racing so fast I can hardly get the words out.

“Why I want to kiss you?” The corners of his mouth twitch down but he’s still grinning, scanning my face.

“Why everything. Why did you think of me when your mum asked who you were seeing?”