Chapter 10 - THE KISS HE DIDN'T EXPECT
Their first kiss happened on a rainy evening.
Nora had been discharged from the hospital and was recovering in an accessible apartment arranged independently with her consent.
Raphael visited often.
That evening, he brought dinner.
They ate beside the window while rain tapped against the glass.
Nora was laughing at something he'd said.
Raphael watched her.
“What?” she asked.
He shook his head.
“Nothing.”
“Raphael.”
He smiled.
“I like hearing you laugh.”
Her expression softened.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then Nora said:
“I used to think you were terrifying.”
Raphael raised an eyebrow.
“Used to?”
She smiled.
“Now I think you're mostly difficult.”
He laughed.
She looked at him.
“And occasionally kind.”
Raphael grew serious.
“Nora.”
“Yes?”
“Can I kiss you?”
She froze.
Then smiled.
“Yes.”
Raphael leaned closer.
The kiss was gentle.
Careful.
Nothing like the ruthless man the city feared.
When he pulled back, Nora was smiling.
“What?” he asked.
She shook her head.
“I just never imagined Raphael Corsetti would ask permission.”
He smiled.
“I'm learning.”
She touched his cheek.
May you like
“Good.”
Then she kissed him again.
