CHAPTER 23

Ava noticed his change in mood but didn't press him, sensing he needed some space. They started walking down the trail, but then Ava felt something light touch her cheek. She looked up and saw the first snowflakes of the season beginning to fall.

"Xavier! Look, it's the first snow of the year!" Ava exclaimed, her face lighting up with pure joy. She spun around with her arms outstretched, catching the snowflakes as they fell.

Xavier watched her with a smile, his heart warmed by the sight of her happiness. He had planned this night meticulously, knowing that the snowfall would be the perfect touch to make it memorable.

Seeing her so delighted, Xavier felt a surge of love and affection. "Then I guess I should receive a reward for this," he said, leaning in toward her.

Ava smiled widely, leaning in to give him a quick peck on the lips. Just as she was about to pull away, Xavier wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close. The kiss deepened, filled with the intensity of their emotions. The snow began to fall more heavily, creating a serene, romantic backdrop for their moment.

The night was a perfect blend of romance and intimacy, with the snow adding a magical touch to their kiss. As they finally pulled away, their breaths mingling in the cold air, Ava looked up at Xavier with a smile, her heart full of warmth and joy.

As their passionate kiss came to an end, both Xavier and Ava found themselves breathless, their lips lingering with the taste of their heated exchange. Xavier's thumb brushed gently over Ava's lower lip, a tender gesture that contrasted with the intensity of their earlier kiss.

"Your lips are so addictive," Xavier murmured, his voice a mix of awe and affection as he nibbled lightly on her lower lip. Ava's eyes fluttered open, and she met his gaze with a smile that spoke of contentment and desire. They remained in each other's embrace, savoring the quiet moment as the snow continued to fall around them, creating a serene cocoon of white.

Their moment of intimacy was interrupted by a voice. "Are you the couple from the zoo?"

Both Xavier and Ava turned to find an elderly couple, the same pair they had met while babysitting at the zoo. The recognition in their eyes was immediate, and they greeted each other warmly.

"Oh, hi," Xavier and Ava said in unison, surprised but pleased to see the couple again.

"Did you come to watch the first snow?" the lady asked, her eyes twinkling with warmth.

"Yes, we're on a date," Ava replied with a bright smile.

The old lady's face lit up. "You know, couples who watch the first snowfall together are said to live a long and happy life. May you both enjoy a lifetime of love and happiness."

"Thank you, we hope the same for you," Xavier said, his gaze drifting to Ava with a smile that conveyed his deep affection.

"Is it your first snow together?" the old lady inquired.

"Yes," Xavier confirmed. "What about you two?"

"We've watched the first snow together every year since the day we got married," the old man said, wrapping his arm around his wife and pulling her close, sharing a tender moment of their own.

"It's been a pleasure meeting you," Xavier said, his tone sincere as he prepared to leave. They exchanged farewells and watched as the old couple walked away, their mutual smiles a testament to the connection they shared.

As they began their descent down the mountain, Xavier extended his hand with a playful flourish. "Shall we leave now, my lady?"

Ava took his hand with a soft laugh, placing her palm against his. "Sure, my lord," she responded, her tone playful yet filled with affection. They made their way back to the ropeway, their fingers intertwined.

Once they were back in the car, the warmth of the interior contrasted with the cold air outside. Ava turned to Xavier, her curiosity piqued. "You seemed disappointed earlier, didn't you?"

"Yes," Xavier admitted, his gaze focused on the road ahead. "I had checked the weather forecast, and it was supposed to snow today. I waited for hours, but the weather can be unpredictable."

Ava's smile grew as she looked at him. "Well, I'll remember today forever. It was truly memorable."

Xavier's fingers gently squeezed Ava's hand as he drove, his expression softening. "I'm glad. I wanted tonight to be special for us."

As the car glided smoothly through the snowy streets, Ava leaned against the seat, her heart full of happiness. The night had been a perfect blend of romance, connection, and unforgettable moments. And with Xavier by her side, Ava knew that their journey together was just beginning.

As they drove through the quiet streets, the snow softly falling around them, Ava broke the comfortable silence with a playful suggestion. "Next time, let's go on a bike. I like biking more than being in a car."

Xavier's lips curled into a smile. "I'll remember that. Bikes, huh? I'll make sure to plan for it."

Their conversation continued with Ava's curiosity about Xavier's family. "By the way, did Lia mention anything about her boyfriend?"

"Yes," Xavier said, his tone casual. "She told me she's dating Xan. I'm okay with it; it's her life."

Ava raised an eyebrow, surprised. "You're okay with it?"

"Of course," Xavier assured her, though his voice held a hint of seriousness. "As long as he doesn't hurt her. If he does, it'll be the last day of his life."

Ava chuckled, shaking her head. "Chill out. Xan's a nice guy. He won't hurt her."

"Alright," Xavier said with a nod.

Ava's playful curiosity was not yet satisfied. "Can I ask you something?"

"Of course," Xavier replied, glancing over at her.

"You look super hot in your suits, but why don't you wear a tie?" she asked, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

Xavier's face flushed slightly with embarrassment. "Because I don't know how to tie one."

Ava burst into laughter, unable to contain her amusement. "Are you serious? You don't know how to tie a tie?"

"I am," Xavier admitted with a sheepish grin. "And I'm not planning on learning. You're going to be the one to do it from now on."

Ava's laughter subsided, and she looked at him with a soft smile. "Deal. I'll make sure your ties are always perfect."

"You're smiling a lot today," Xavier remarked, his gaze warm and appreciative.

Ava's eyes sparkled with happiness. "It's because this is my first real date, and it's been unforgettable."

Xavier's expression turned tender. "So, that means I'm your first..."

Ava interrupted with a confident grin. "You think I'm hot?"

"Yeah," Xavier said with a chuckle. "Are you saying that you think so too?"

"Definitely," Ava replied, her tone frank and assured. "And I'm always honest about my opinions."

Xavier smiled, clearly pleased by her confidence. "Well, I'm glad to hear that."

When they finally arrived at Ava's house, Xavier parked the car and turned to her with a gentle smile. They shared a warm hug, their embrace lingering as if neither wanted to let go.