Page 97 of When We Ignite

Ethan’s lips found their way to my jaw in the softest kiss imaginable—testing the waters.

“Help with what? Getting dressed?” Ethan teased, his tone playful.

I chuckled, resting my forehead against his. “I’m much better at the undressing part,” I replied, chasing his tongue with mine as he laughed softly.

“That’s great, Ash. Hey, I’ve been meaning to ask—what did you think about Ian? I talked to him yesterday, and he thought you were great,” Charlotte said.

Ethan pulled back slightly, his pale eyes locking with mine.

“I’m not interested, but thanks for the introduction. It was sweet of you,” I told her, unmuting briefly again.

Ethan tilted his head, a sly smirk spreading across his lips.

“That’s too bad. I thought for sure you’d hit it off,” Charlotte continued.

“Not really my type,” I muttered, watching Ethan’s tongue dart out to wet his bottom lip, the motion leaving me momentarily distracted.

“What is your type, then? And please don’t say my brother.”

Ethan pressed his lips together, trying to stifle his laughter.

“Your brother looks like a Greek statue come to life,” I said, holding Ethan’s gaze. His expression softened, the smirk melting into something quieter. “He’s that sort of timeless beauty. I’d venture to guess he’s most people’s type.”

“That was much sweeter than I would’ve expected from you,” Charlotte admitted, sounding as surprised as Ethan looked.

“I’m not the devil,” I said dryly, earning a chuckle from her.

Ethan’s cheeks flushed, and it took everything in me not to kiss him again right there.

“I wasn’t implying you were. I just wouldn’t have guessed you were a romantic. I’ll keep that in mind for next time.”

“You shouldn’t bother, Charlie. I’m perfectly capable of finding my own men.”

“You never know, Ash. Love can be found in the most unexpected places,” she said.

Ethan’s pale eyes widened slightly before darting away.

“Thanks again for trying, but I’m not really in the mood for love right now,” I said softly.

Ethan’s shoulders squared, his mask slipping back into place. A familiar pang tightened in my chest—I needed to be more careful with my words around him.

“Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it,” she said. Then, with a sigh, she added, “That reminds me, I need to call him.”

“More wedding scheduling?” I asked, my hands finding his waist, giving a gentle tug.

“No, just our own family drama. Nothing to worry about.”

Ethan tensed under my touch. Interesting.

“Thanks for making the time, Ash. See you next week,” she chirped brightly.

“Looking forward to it. See you next week,” I said before ending the call.

When Ethan looked back at me, his face was perfectly neutral again, but I could see the faint cracks beneath.

“I didn’t expect to find you here,” I said, watching the flush return to his cheeks.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured.