Chapter 120
Just as Alice was about to eat the grapefruit, Caden leaned down and snatched it away with his mouth. Their lips brushed briefly before separating. Alice froze, staring at Caden's stunning face, inches from her own. The unexpected closeness made her heart pound; she felt intensely nervous.
Caden hovered over her, chewing the fruit slowly, his eyes locked on hers, his expression unreadable. Alice's heartbeat quickened; their chests almost touched, and she feared he sensed her restlessness. Carefully, she reached out, trying to create some distance. Caden's Adam's apple bobbed as he swallowed. The fresh citrus scent filled the small space between their faces.
“There are two pieces left,” Caden said. “Will you feed them to me, or should I steal another kiss?”
Feeling the tension rise, Alice quickly replied, “I’ll feed you.”
Caden smiled. “With your mouth?” he joked.
“No! With my hand!” Alice answered.
Caden stepped back, giving her space. Alice composed herself, grabbed the remaining grapefruit segments, and fed him, ensuring no unnecessary contact. The interaction was brief and simple.
As the tension eased, Alice felt the atmosphere lighten. “How does it taste? Do you like it?” she asked.
Caden looked at her. “It’s so-so,” he replied. He had never been a fan of fruit; grapefruit, in particular, had always seemed bland and unappealing. But today, he found it unexpectedly satisfying.
Alice grumbled, “Just so-so? I picked the sweetest one for you.”
Caden looked at her. “It’s sweet, but not too sweet. It’s quite juicy,” he said slowly. “I’d rate it a solid seven out of ten.”
Alice remained silent, suspecting a double meaning. He gave her the last piece. His eyes were fixed on the television, where a couple was kissing.
The sudden intimacy on screen made Alice uncomfortable. A moment ago, they had been arguing; now, they were kissing intensely. The change, coupled with the absence of background music, created an awkward silence. Alice quickly reached for the remote.
Caden commented, “His kissing skills are pretty average, but still better than yours.”
Alice’s lips twitched. “Why are you comparing them to me?”
Caden looked at her calmly. “I’m just being honest,” he said.
Alice rolled her eyes. “Maybe his are better than mine, but yours are definitely worse. What do you think?”
Caden raised an eyebrow, amused. “I see,” he said. “Looks like I need to practice a little more. Since you claim your skills are better, why don't you teach me?”
Alice choked, stunned by his directness. She glared at him; he was clearly up to something. “I’m not interested in teaching anyone,” she said sternly.
Caden remained calm. “Just admit your kissing skills aren't that great. We know each other well enough, and I won’t make fun of you.”
Alice stood her ground. “Laugh all you want. I’m not teaching you anything.”
“Okay. You’re just used to being second best.”
Caden’s teasing sparked a reaction. “What do you mean by that?” Alice demanded.
Caden, maintaining a straight face, said, “When it comes to kissing, that male lead is first, and you’re second. Like our old competitions. For over a decade, you were always second.”
Alice was speechless. Caden watched, amused, as her anger grew. Alice leaned forward, biting her lip, her fierce determination slowly giving way to nervous excitement. Before she could pull away, Caden wrapped his arms around her and lifted her onto his lap.
Their eyes met. Caden’s gaze was unwavering. “If you’re going to teach me, do it well. Don’t make me look down on your efforts.”
Alice stiffened, nestled in his arms, feeling the heat radiating from his body. She found him undeniably attractive; his natural presence and striking features captivated her.
Slowly, Alice raised her hand and ran her fingers through his hair. She leaned down and kissed him. Her movements were awkward and stiff. She bumped her nose repeatedly against his, finally pushing it aside to adjust.
Caden was speechless for a moment. “What are you doing?” he asked, sounding both confused and amused.