HERMIONE Aiden's car pulls to a stop in front of the hospital, and I reach for the door handle. "Hey," Aiden grumbles as I attempt to unlock the door. I turn to face him, sensing he's deliberately blocking my exit. He taps his cheek, a mischievous smile spreading across his lips. "Don't I get a kiss?" His eyes sparkle with expectation. "In your dreams," I retort. "Unlock the door, Aiden." Aiden sighs, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Thanks for honoring my invitation today, Hermione." "You forced my hand," I remind him. "But you had fun, didn't you?" He throws back, his grin unwavering. I scrunch up my nose, looking away. I'm enjoying his company, but I won't admit it easily. It's a defense mechanism, protecting myself from falling deeper under his spell. "Let me out," I

