Mason thought about it, and then he acted on it.

He stepped into the cramped kitchen, wrapping his arms around her from behind. His chin rested on Zoe's slender shoulder blades, tilting slightly as he tenderly kissed the soft flesh behind her ear.

The sudden intimacy caught her off guard, and Zoe's legs almost gave way. She lowered her gaze, looking at the unwashed dishes in her hands, and said, "Mason, you said you just wanted a meal. What's going on?"

Mason tightened his grip, whispering near her ear, "Zoe, come back with me."

Zoe's body stiffened. It was the first time Mason did not command her to come back with him. Instead, it sounded more like a request, and this subtle change added a hint of bittersweetness to the atmosphere.

She bowed her head in silence.

Mason kissed her hair and raised his eyes slightly. "Okay?"

A sudden ring interrupted the moment.

Mason frowned slightly, not wanting to answer, but Zoe had already snapped out of it.

"Answer your phone."

Mason glanc