We fell in love in math class

Chapter 22 "Thanks, But Make it Spicy"

(Saturday Afternoon - Ethan’s House)

Xyleme's POV:

I showed up at Ethan’s place with my usual overconfidence, ready to do absolutely nothing except hang out and mooch off his food. But when I walked in, Ethan was already in the kitchen, busy making something that smelled incredible.

X: “Hey, Chef Boyardee, you cooking for me or yourself?”

Ethan turned around, a knowing grin on his face. “For us. But if you keep calling me that, I might just eat it all by myself.”

X: “No chance. I’m starving.”

Ethan rolled his eyes and set two plates on the counter, each with a sandwich that looked like it was straight out of a food magazine. “You better appreciate this. I slaved over these.”

(A Few Minutes Later - Eating)

X: “Dude, this is amazing. You seriously made this?” I said with my mouth full, probably looking like a chipmunk.

E: “Yep. And you’re welcome,” Ethan said, looking pleased with himself. “So… what’s my reward?”

I paused, swallowing the last bite. “You want a reward for making lunch?”

E: “I’m just saying… a little gratitude would be nice.”

I leaned back in my chair, thinking. “Hmm… I could think of a few ways to thank you,” I said, letting my voice drop just a little, just enough to see his reaction.

Ethan’s eyebrow shot up, his smirk widening. “Oh? Care to elaborate?”

I got up from my chair and sauntered over to him. “I’m much better at showing than telling.”

(Later - Living Room)

We ended up back on the couch, and I decided to turn the tables a little. I straddled his lap, facing him, my hands resting on his shoulders. “I’ve been thinking…” I started, slowly, letting my hands trail down his chest.

E: “That’s dangerous,” he teased, but I could see his eyes darken with anticipation.

X: “You could say that.” I leaned in closer, brushing my lips against his ear, and whispered, “But I think you’ll like where it’s going.”

(A Few Moments Later - Things Heat Up)

Ethan’s hands found my waist, and he pulled me closer, kissing me like he was trying to prove a point. The room got warmer, and I felt my heart beat faster, but I wasn’t about to back down.

X: “This… is way better than sandwiches,” I murmured against his lips.

E: “I don’t know… the sandwiches were pretty good,” he said, trying to keep a straight face.

I huffed, rolling my eyes. “Okay, then. Guess I have to work a little harder to make you forget about them.”

Before he could say anything, I captured his lips again, this time deeper, more intense. I felt his grip on my waist tighten as I kissed him harder, and I could tell he was trying not to laugh, but he was definitely losing the battle.

(A Little While Later)

Ethan broke the kiss, slightly out of breath, but still smirking. “I gotta admit… you’re doing a pretty good job.”

X: “See? I told you.” I grinned, leaning in to give him one last teasing kiss before getting up. “Now, what’s for dessert?”

E: “If this is how you thank me, I might just cook for you more often,” he said, his voice a mix of amusement and something else.

X: “Well, good. Because I’m definitely not done thanking you yet.”