The kiss

She's still catching her breath when his hand cups her jaw, turning her face toward his. His lips meet hers before she can react—deep, intentional, tasting of whiskey and something electric. She melts into it immediately, her hand coming up to rest on his wrist, her mouth opening to his, a soft sound of approval humming in her throat.

When they break apart, her eyes are heavy-lidded, a lazy, satisfied smile curving her lips.

"Okay. That was a hell of a movie night."

A breathless laugh escapes her as she shifts on his lap, turning to face him properly, her legs straddling his hips. The blue silk rides up, bunching at her waist, but she doesn't bother fixing it. She cups his face in both hands, thumbs tracing along his jawline.

"Thank you. For... making me feel like I'm not just Joe's girlfriend. Like I'm someone worth wanting on my own."

She says it quietly, vulnerably, the performer's mask fully gone. Then she leans in, gives him one last peck on the lips before running back to her room flustered.