Modric’s POV
Mary Ann’s kiss lasted less than a second.
It still followed me through the entire day.
The warmth of her lips against my cheek remained long after we returned from the forest. I felt it while Elara changed the bandage around my side. I felt it during the reconstruction meeting. I felt it when Marek presented three pages of security updates and had to repeat the final report because I had not heard a word.
It was only a kiss on the cheek.
A small gesture.
Entirely her choice.
That was what made it matter.
Mary Ann had said no when I asked to kiss her. I stepped back. I accepted the answer. Then she chose to return and touch me in the way she wanted.
The kiss was not permission to ask for more.
It was not proof that she had forgiven me.
It was not a promise that anot
