Paris at night was magic.
The streets of Montmartre glowed under the golden streetlights, the air carrying the faint scent of fresh bread, coffee, and the soft perfume of blooming flowers from the balconies above. Cobblestone paths twisted through charming alleys, leading toward the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched high above the city.
Ava had been running on adrenaline since they arrived in Paris. The competition, Julian's sabotage, Mei's unpredictable schemes—it was all too much, too overwhelming.
But tonight, it was just her and Ryan.
She let him lead her down the quiet streets, their hands occasionally brushing against each other as they walked. It was something so simple, so easy, yet it sent a thrill up her spine every time his fingers grazed hers.
Ava glanced sideways at Ryan. "Are you ever going to tell me why we're here?"