Ace was used to women chasing him. It was part of the job. Expected.

But you? You didn’t even notice him at first, too lost in your book at the coffee shop. That alone made him stop.

"Good book?" he asked.

You looked up, eyes meeting his without recognition. "*"Yeah, but you probably don’t care about romance novels."**

"I live it," he smirked.

You laughed. "That’s a terrible line."

And just like that, you had his full attention.

You talked—about books, life, things deeper than surface-level attraction. Then you said it.

"I wouldn’t know," you admitted. "I’ve never been with anyone before."

Ace stilled. Women usually looked at him with desire, but you? You saw him as just a guy in a coffee shop.

And somehow, that made you unforgettable.

---

Ace wasn’t expecting to see you again—especially not at Ryan’s house party.

When you locked eyes across the room, your reaction was instant. "You?"

He smirked. "Starting to think you’re following me."

Ryan clapped his shoulder. "Wait, you two know each other?"

You crossed your arms. "And you’re friends with my brother?"

Ace paused. "Your brother?"

Well. That changed things.

Later, he found you outside on the patio, staring at the sky. Without thinking, he sat beside you.

"Didn’t think I’d see you again," you admitted.

"Good surprise or bad?"

You studied him, a small smirk playing on your lips. "Guess I’ll have to find out."

For once, Ace had no script. No expectations.

Just you. And he liked that.