Essel’s Pov
"The dishwasher," he replies, initially addressing Liz before shifting his focus to me. As he places the plates on the kitchen island, his proximity brings an unexpected warmth. Moving around the island, he opens a cupboard door, revealing the cleverly concealed dishwasher, leaving a subtle trace of his aftershave in the air. "It’s here," he adds with a hint of satisfaction.
I clear my throat, feeling a bit flustered, and manage a soft, "thank you."
Anxiously, I run my tongue over my lips and reach for a few plates, balancing them carefully in my hands as I approach the dishwasher. Just as I get closer, Tristen swings the door open wide, allowing me to arrange the plates neatly inside. He gathers the remaining dishes from the island, loading them alongside the cutlery with
