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The ambiance of the resort is so lively and festive that it instantly lifts my mood even higher. I was worried that I might have overdressed, but it turns out I was worrying for no reason because everyone is dressed lavishly.

Makes sense.

We’re here to welcome a new year.

The place is packed without feeling too crowded. The rooftop restaurant isn’t the only attraction. There’s an underground club too, and a private bar.

Kingston and I ride up in the elevator with a French couple behind us. I study our reflection in the mirror. He truly looks like a sexy lumberjack tonight, big and muscular with dark stubble that sharpens his masculine features.

Even in my heels, I barely reach his shoulders. Our height difference should intimidate me, yet all I feel is protected and cherished.

We’re opposite in every way, but fit together like two halves of a whole.

I turn crimson when he catches me staring and winks right before the door opens, leading us into a dimly lit lobby where we turn right.

The hostess smiles brightly and asks if we have a reservation in a thick accent. Kingston answers fluently in German and I think I catch a hint of a blush on the woman’s cheeks. I’d be jealous if it weren’t for the fact that that’s just the effect he has on people. Also, because I know he only has eyes for me. So, there’s no room for insecurity.

A waiter appears next to us within seconds and ushers us through the gate beside the hostess’s stand.

I’m completely blown away.

The high ceilings are designed in an ancient style, with dazzling chandeliers hanging off them. The restaurant is divided into two seating areas. Private booths line the inside, while the terrace is set with dining tables.

Live music plays in the background, giving the atmosphere a romantic touch.

I gaze through the glass partition at the view… and oh my God.

Bright, colorful lights dance toward the sky while the shadows of mountain peaks provide a lovely backdrop. Every now and then, the rays of the sparkling lights shine on them in the distance before vanishing.

There are Christmas decorations all around the interior, giving the perfect holiday feel.

“Do you like it, darling?” Kingston softly asks while running his palm down my ass discreetly. It manages to distract me.

“It’s a beautiful place,” I rasp in awe to him, my eyes wide. “Was this the surprise?”

“No.” Kissing my forehead, he shares, “That’s coming later.”

My jaw drops and I complain, “How do you expect me to concentrate on dinner then?”

“You made me wait for six months to have you,” he teases. “You can handle a few hours.”

“I pined over you for those months too, you know.”

His gaze darkens and his tone drops an octave. “Not as much as I have, Twinkle.”

The yearning in his confession sends a shiver coursing down my spine. We finally reach our booth at the far back, in a secluded corner. Warmth and something like love spread through my chest when my gaze falls on the candlelit table set for us.

Roses and lilies sit in a vase in the middle of the table, their scent wafting around the space.

“Please have a seat,” the waiter says. “I’ll give you a minute and return to take your order for drinks.”

“That’s fine,” says Kingston. “Just a glass of scotch and a cranberry vodka.”

The bubbly and gooey feeling in my belly intensifies because he remembers my favorite drink from all those months ago.

“Perfect. I’ll bring them right away.”

I slide into the booth and grab Kingston’s hand before he can sit across from me. “Sit beside me.”