~Katherine's POV
Aaro nodded slowly, like he expected that answer, and then he looked at me again, this time more directly.
"Then let me take you out," he said.
I felt my lips part slightly, and I had to look away for a brief moment because I suddenly became very aware of how I was feeling, and it was… a lot.
"You are asking me on a date?" I asked, even though it was obvious.
He smiled, and this time there was no hesitation at all.
"Yes," he said. "I am."
It was the beginning of something I had not planned for, something I had not prepared myself for, and yet I found myself wanting it.
I felt a small smile form on my lips before I could stop it.
"Okay," I said, and this time, I did not overthink it.
His expression softened immediately, and there was this quiet satisfaction in his eyes that made my chest feel warm in a way I could not explain.
"Okay?" he repeated, just to be sure.
