Raegan knew Erick's stubbornness all too well, a trait Mitchel seemed to underestimate. Once Erick set his mind on something, he was Like a tree deeply rooted, unmovable.

Her curiosity piqued, Raegan questioned, “And how do you plan to convince my brother?"

Mitchel reassured her with a wave of his hand, “Leave that to me.

The moment he gives his nod, nothing will keep us apart."

Caught off guard by his assurance, Raegan protested, “Wait, ‘us being together? I haven't said yes to anything yet."

Mitchel's confidence didn't waver. "I don't care. I'll make sure your brother sees things our way," he declared.

As the night crept upon them, Raegan attempted to retrieve her hand, saying, "It's getting late. I should head home."

But Mitchel's grip remained firm, his voice dropping to a whisper.

"Please, don't go tonight. Stay with me?"

The memory of Mitchel's allure that night flashed through Raegan's mind, his striking figure etched in her memory, stirring a blush on her cheeks at the thought. The possibility of repeating that night if she stayed crossed her mind. Absolutely not!

Firmly, Raegan refused, "I can't stay. My brother will start looking for me soon."

Raegan remembered how her previous lie to Victor had easily unraveled, prompting Erick to tighten his watch over her. He had taken to video calling her at night, making unexpected checks.

Mitchel, noticing her embarrassment, realized she was recalling their intimate moment the other night. His resolve to negotiate with Erick grew stronger, understanding that only with Erick's blessing could they truly be together.

Mitchel hesitated but didn't want to press Raegan into a corner. He let out a sigh, a mix of resignation and mischief coloring his tone.

"Alright, you can leave. But as a small penalty for having avoided me for the previous two days, how about a kiss?"

Raegan's cheeks warmed at his request, her voice tinged with disbelief. "What are you saying?"

He looked at her, his expression grave. "My stomach's been acting up.

I could use a bit of comfort."

With no real escape, Raegan leaned in, her lips brushing his in the faintest of touches. She felt her face heat up. This was new territory for her, initiating such an intimate gesture.

“I'll be off then," she managed to say, lifting her gaze to meet his.