A Night of Warmth

Alex's heart seemed to skip a beat. He stared at Claire, who was now so close, and forgot to react. The kiss was light and brief.

Claire let go of him and took a step back, feeling a little uneasy as she lowered her head. Her ears flushed red. She hadn't expected to take the initiative to kiss him.

Alex stood in a daze, his heart in turmoil, unable to calm down. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, an indescribable joy and growing anticipation swelling in his chest. His Claire had finally made the first move.

His face lit up with excitement, and his voice trembled slightly.

"You…"

Before he could say more, Claire turned abruptly.

"I'm leaving. I need to see Leander," she said, her voice flustered.

She hurried to leave as if escaping, but Alex grabbed her arm. The momentum caused her to stumble back into his embrace.