CHAPTER EIGHTEEN – PERFECT CHEMISTRY

They found a secluded spot, partially hidden by a cluster of trees. As they sat down, Vito pulled Joan close, and she nestled into his side contentedly. "This is nice," Joan murmured, resting her head on his shoulder. Vito nodded, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on her arm. "It is. I'm really glad we did this." They sat in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the peacefulness of the moment. Joan felt safe and warm in Vito's embrace, her earlier nervousness replaced by a sense of rightness. After a few minutes, Joan lifted her head to look at Vito. Their eyes met, and she felt a surge of desire. Without overthinking it, she leaned in and pressed her lips to his. Vito responded immediately, one hand cupping her face as he deepened the kiss. Joan shifted, moving to straddle his lap for better access. Her fingers tangled in his hair as their kisses grew more passionate. Just as things were heating up, a sharp ringtone cut through the air. Vito broke the kiss, looking dazed for