Ava lifted her face and offered Liam a soft smile. Under the glow of the chandelier, his tall frame cast a commanding shadow over her. She hesitated for just a moment before lightly placing her fingers against his much larger hand. Without hesitation, he intertwined their fingers, his thumb brushing tenderly against the back of her neck—a gesture both protective and intimate.
"The traffic was a nightmare. Sorry I'm late," he murmured, his voice low and rich, carrying the weight of the long day.
Ava stepped in closer, allowing the warmth of his presence to envelop her. "I just got here too," she reassured him gently.
From the corner of her eye, she caught Aunt Florence's expression—a disapproving huff before she turned on her heel and walked away. It was clear she had no interest in provoking Liam's temper tonight.