As we drove to Ace's mother's house, the atmosphere in the car was lively and carefree. Ace's mother was chatting away, making jokes and teasing me about my "tough" exterior. I laughed and joked back, feeling a sense of ease with her that I hadn't experienced in a long time.
"I never would have pegged you as a tough cookie, Sharon," Ace's mother said with a grin. "You're a sweetheart."
I blushed and playfully rolled my eyes. "Don't be fooled, I'm a force to be reckoned with," I said, trying to sound tough.
Ace chuckled, and I turned to him, surprised. "You're laughing?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.
He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're just so... entertaining," he said, his voice low and amused.
I felt a flutter in my chest at the warmth in his voice, and I quickly looked away, trying to compose myself.
As we drove, Ace's mother pointed out landmarks and told stories about the neighborhood. I was fascinated by the way she seemed to know everyone and everything.
