The closeness

It was well past midnight when Jasper finally arrived home, his footsteps echoing through the empty house. Ella, who had been waiting up for him, emerged from her bedroom, her eyes fixed on his unsteady figure. She realized he had been drinking, and her heart ached with concern as she watched him stumble toward the stairs.

"Be careful," she called out, hurrying over to him. She took hold of his arm, trying to steady him.

Jasper paused, raising an eyebrow at her. The typical Jasper would have scoffed at the notion of needing assistance, but this time, he didn't resist her touch. He didn't pull away, either. Instead, he looked at her, really looked at her.

Jasper didn't know why he was not distancing himself from her. Was it because of his gratitude toward her for making cookies for him? Or was it because of the alcohol?

As he continued to stare at her, he found her more alluring. Her blushed cheeks seemed inviting.