Chapter 35: I killed a man, Roman?
As Thorne prepares to leave, Noelle stands in the kitchen, arms crossed and watching him with a mix of amusement and affection. Thorne, ever dramatic, pauses at the door, casting a glance back at Noelle as though he were setting off on a grand journey.
"My beloved star, I have to go see Ben in town. I'll be back soon," Thorne says, his deep voice filled with a teasing lilt.
Noelle rolls his eyes and huffs, folding his arms tighter. "Hmm, it's not like you're going for months. It's just a few hours away, Thorne."
Thorne places a hand on his chest, feigning offense. "You wound me, Noelle. I will miss you terribly." Then, with dramatic flair, he cups Noelle's cheeks and presses a loud, playful kiss to his lips.
Noelle chuckles, unable to keep a straight face. Thorne always knew how to make him laugh, even when being over-the-top. "It's always so hard kissing you like this. You're so tiny," Thorne teases, a grin spreading across his face.
Noelle arches a brow, playfully indignant. "You're just tall."
Thorne's response is a low hum of agreement, and before Noelle can protest, Thorne effortlessly lifts him by the thighs, wrapping Noelle's legs around his waist. Now, they're at eye level, Noelle looking down at him from this new vantage point. His hands grip Thorne's broad shoulders instinctively.
"This is better," Thorne says with a mischievous glint in his eye.
Noelle can't help but smile. "I won't disagree," he replies, a softness in his voice as they lean into another kiss. This one is deeper, lingering, the warmth between them growing with each second.