You were already late. Of course, fate decided to laugh at you — and put him in the same elevator.

A neat suit. A woody perfume. And that damn look of someone who knows how much he drives you crazy.

“How lucky I am,” you muttered, not hiding your sarcasm.

“Honestly?” — He looked at his watch. “I’d rather take the stairs.” You laughed bitterly. “Go for it. There’s still time to jump through the crack.”

But before either of you could say another word, the elevator shuddered… and stopped. Silence. The panel went dark. The engine noise disappeared. And then the heat started. “

“You’re kidding.” — You pressed the buttons, trying to stay calm.

“Relax,” he said, already taking off his jacket. “It’ll be quick.”

You crossed your arms, trying not to look at the way he was loosening his tie.

“If you think you can take off your clothes to distract me…”

“No need. You’re already distracted by looking at me.”

The answer was automatic. “I hate you.”

“I know.” — He took a step. — But do you know what’s worse?

You stepped back — just a little. “It’s just that this hatred smells like a lie.”

The two of you were quiet. Only the muffled sound of the still air between you. Your heart racing. His gaze fixed, steady, almost daring you to deny what you both knew.

“Since when did you realize?” — ​​you asked, almost in a whisper. He moved closer. Slowly. Without rushing.

“Since that debate. When you cursed me… but you couldn’t stop looking at my mouth.” He stopped inches away.

“And you? Since when do you feel it?”

“Since now.” You answered.

Because it was true. Or maybe you just stopped denying it at that second. And then he kissed you. It was with anger. With hunger. With everything that was trapped between teasing, fighting and lingering looks. His hands tightened around your waist as if he wanted to get out of you every answer that pride had hidden for so long.

When you pulled away, panting, he rested his forehead against yours. "When the elevator comes back... do we keep pretending?" "No." You smiled, pulling him back. "we'll finish this at my apartment”