Perfect dinner

The moment Elena sat down across from me, I had to remind myself to breathe. She looked unreal. That light green dress hugged her body like it had been crafted by the gods specifically for her.

Her curls framed her face, her brown skin practically glowing under the lantern light. And her eyes deep, dark pools that could drown me without mercy.

I was in trouble.

Because all I could think about was taking her back to the villa and making love to her until the sun rose.

I swallowed hard, gripping the edge of the table as if it would somehow anchor me to reality. Focus, Carmen. Focus.

The ring was still in my jacket pocket, heavy like a secret, like a promise. The very reason we were here. I had a plan—a perfect plan—and getting distracted now wasn't an option.

A waiter approached with the first dish, and I nearly sighed in relief. Something to keep my hands busy, something to talk about.