Aestrea lowered his gaze first to Violet.
"You want to be spoiled?" he asked softly.
Her confidence wavered for half a second under the weight of his voice.
"Y-yes."
He leaned closer, slow enough for her to feel every inch of the distance closing. His fingers slid from her cheek to her chin, lifting her face just slightly.
"Then you should say it properly," he murmured.
"Look at me when you ask."
Her breath caught at those seemingly enticing words. She had thought she was being bold enough, but she had never expected him to answer like this.
Violet swallowed hard, then steadied herself. Her eyes met his again, no longer darting away, showing a hint of stubborness on them.
"…I want you to spoil me," she repeated, softer but firm.
His lips curved into a faint smile.
"Good."
His thumb slowly brushed gently across her lower lip, before his hand dropped. The simple touch sent heat rushing straight to her ears.
Alaine felt his hand tighten slightly at her waist.
