The room was softly lit, casting a warm glow around them. Standing so close, their hearts beating to the same rhythm, he leaned forward and gently pushed a strand of hair behind her ear; his fingers brushed against her cheek.
"Is this happening?" he whispered, in a very low tone and with so much wonder.
"Maybe it's been meant to happen all along," she said, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
He leaned in and kissed her; she was warm beneath his lips. The world outside receded as the kiss deepened, stirring the fire that wove a spell of warmth through both their bodies. Parting, their breaths mingled as he whispered, "You are more beautiful than I ever imagined."
She smiled, a blush creeping to her cheeks. "And you're even more captivating than the stories I've heard.
She stepped back w
