"Go ahead, what are the 3 things you want?" Dominic asked, clearly entertained by Ivy's audacity.
Ivy's grin grew mischievous. "Let's see... First option: I get to hold your arm and rest my head on your shoulder while I sleep the whole night." She paused, enjoying the effect of her words. "Second option: I get to see and feel your abs and chest." She said it with a wink, clearly imagining it.
Dominic chuckled, gathering leaves and some dry wood to start a fire. The chilly night air made it a perfect moment to warm up, though he could hardly focus on the task at hand, still processing Ivy's boldness. "What's the third?" he asked, trying to stay calm.
Ivy looked at him, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Third: I want a five-minute intense kiss."
Dominic's eyes widened in surprise. Her straightforwardness was both shocking and incredibly endearing. He had to admit, the shamelessness was… adorable. He paused for a second, trying to collect himself.
Writer and reader: "All three girls are shameless, feathers of the same flock."
It had only been the day before that Dominic had noticed a beautiful bracelet he thought would be perfect for Ivy. He had it in his pocket, waiting for the right moment.
"Can I add another choice to your list?" Dominic asked with a smirk, his confidence returning. "And I'll let you pick whatever you want."
Ivy raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Sure, what is it? All of the above?" She teased, clearly enjoying this playful back-and-forth.
Dominic laughed, shaking his head. She's the most shameless one, he thought.
Then, without warning, he dropped down onto one knee, pulling out the bracelet. The fire crackled behind him, casting a warm glow that made everything feel even more intimate. "Can I be your boyfriend? The 'all of the above' option, but trust me, five minutes of kissing won't be enough."
The fire he had lit warmed the air around them, and the words warmed their hearts. The flames illuminated their eyes, making it completely visible to each other how much sincerity and longing they held in that moment. It was as if the world had paused, leaving only the two of them under the flickering firelight, surrounded by the crackling warmth and the quiet understanding that something beautiful had just begun.
"I love the 4th option " she said and raised her hand to let him put the bracelet on.