#Chapter 196: Take the Lead

“Cynthia.” Asher’s words rumbled in his chest under my ear. “I would love to repair our bond.” My heart sprouted wings and flew high. “Okay. Okay, great.” He held me, and I held him back. After a moment, I asked, “How do we repair it exactly?” He paused a moment, as if thinking. “We could start from the beginning.” “Okay.” I soaked up his warmth for another few seconds, then forced myself to take a step back, away from him. I lifted my hand up into the new space between us for a handshake. “Hello. I’m Cynthia.” Asher laughed a little, flashing a genuine smile that stole my breath away. He was always handsome, but the sight of him happy was almost too much to bear. Like staring directly into the sun. Asher accepted my handshake with a firm grip. “Nice to meet you, Cynthia. I’m Asher.” We shook hands. Somehow, as this happened, we moved closer together again. I licked my lips. “What happens now?” His smile softened. “What do you want to happen?” Looking at him – at the widt