Brandon's POV
"Okay..."
I carefully lowered the steaming bowl onto the wooden dining table and took one cautious step back like a chef presenting the masterpiece he'd spent years perfecting.
"There we go."
I spread my hands dramatically.
"Your five-star meal has officially arrived."
Ashley stared at the bowl.
Then at me.
Then back at the bowl again.
One perfectly shaped eyebrow lifted.
"Should I be worried?"
I placed a hand over my chest.
"Ouch."
She smiled despite herself.
"I'm serious."
"So am I."
I pulled out the chair opposite hers and sat down with exaggerated confidence.
"Go ahead."
She leaned closer instead.
Steam curled lazily into the air, carrying with it the comforting aroma of butter, herbs and toasted bread.
"Hmm..."
She waved the steam toward herself with one hand.
"I'll admit..."
She closed her eyes dramatically as she inhaled.
"It doesn't smell life-threatening like I expected."
I rolled my eyes so hard they almost hurt.
"You're impossible."
