The Masked Hearts💘

Chapter 3

The morning unfolds gently with a soft light peeking through our bedroom curtains, casting a warm glow over Ashton's peaceful face as he sleeps beside me. 

Last night was quiet and cozy; we watched a movie, ordered pizza, and ended up cuddling and making out until we fell asleep.

"Hey sleepyhead, rise and shine," I murmur, leaning in to plant a small kiss on Ashton's cheek. He stirs and yawns, his voice husky with sleep. "Morning already? Feels like we just fell asleep."

"Time flies when you're having fun," I tease softly. Ashton pulls me closer, wrapping his arms around me, and we linger in the warmth of the moment.

The incident with Joshua feels like a distant memory now.

"Shall we start the day with a bath together?" I suggest, wiggling my eyebrows playfully.

Ashton grins lazily. "Sounds perfect. You splash, I'll fetch the towels."

We tease each other with splashes of water and making out some more.

After drying off and getting ready, we decide to head out for some shopping. Holding hands, we stroll through the lively streets, browsing shops.

"Look at this," Ashton says, holding up a quirky mug. "Wouldn't it be perfect for your morning coffee?"

I laugh. "It's cute, but we already have a cupboard full of mugs!"

He grins, placing it back. "You're right. Let's find something else."

We continue exploring until Ashton surprises me with a small gift—a delicate necklace "For my beautiful girl," he says with a wink, I beam at him. 

"Thank you, it's beautiful," I say, running my fingers over the pendant. He gives me a playful wink as he fastens it around my neck.

We hunt a cozy café for our lunch and we settle into a corner booth, our hands intertwined as we scan the menu. 

"What are you in the mood for?" Ashton asks, his eyes scanning the options with interest.

"I think I'll go for the pasta," I reply, "And you?"

He grins. "Burger and fries, classic choice."

After lunch we do some more shopping, where Ashton tries on a jacket I've picked out. "What do you think?" he asks, turning to model it.

I scrutinize him playfully. "Looking good, but I still think that shirt would suit you better," I tease, holding up another option.

He laughs and playfully pulls me into the dressing room with him. Inside the small space, our laughter echoes softly against the walls. 

"You really think so?" Ashton asks, slipping on the shirt as I watch him, a grin spreading across my face.

"Yeah, definitely," I reply, stepping closer to adjust the collar. Our eyes meet, and without hesitation, he leans in, pressing his lips softly against mine. 

The kiss is tender yet filled with a spark of desire, a silent affirmation of our connection.

When we finally pull away, our smiles linger. "Let's head home," Ashton suggests, his voice soft yet eager.

I nod, "Sounds perfect."

Leaving the store hand in hand, we stroll back to our apartment, the cool evening air brushing against our cheeks. 

As we reach our door, Ashton turns to me, his eyes shining with affection.

"Today was amazing," he says sincerely, cupping my face in his hands.

I smile, leaning into his touch. "It really was." 

We share a lingering kiss, and he picks me up and we head to our room. 

We lie in bed, our naked bodies entwined, staring off into space. Eventually, Ashton breaks the embrace to reach for his phone. "How about we order some food?" he suggests.

I nod, still feeling the buzz , pulling him closer to browse through options.

After having food, we drift off to sleep tangled together, the events of the day running through my mind. I touch the pendant Ashton gave me earlier and smile into the dark.