"I kissed you because I couldn't help myself, and let's be clear, I've never regretted that moment. In fact, it's given me a glimmer of hope," he confessed unexpectedly, his honesty catching her off guard. The mere idea of him wanting to kiss her surpassed her imagination. "Hope?" she repeated, struggling to grasp the direction of their conversation. "I have an unusual proposal," he stated bluntly, his voice firm and serious, a stark contrast from his gentlemanly demeanor the day before. "A temporary arrangement between us." "What kind of arrangement?" she asked, captivated by his words, realizing she was now the one holding the reins of the conversation. "One that explores our connection further...on a deeper level," he explained, folding his arms, awaiting her response. Ivory found herself at a loss, as she'd never encountered a situation like this and considered the possibility of it happening almost inconceivable. "You, Ivory, intrigue me in ways I didn't anticipate. Our encounter last night suggests there might be mutual interests," he continued, leaving her with much to ponder.
