Hazel’s compliment carried a hint of playful mockery. Still tipsy, she leaned in close, smirking as if to challenge him. Her fingers brushed against his chest in a teasing touch, and Francisco let out a low chuckle.

“Handsome,” she drawled, eyes gleaming, “you really don’t know how to talk to a beautiful lady. You shouldn’t reject someone like me.”

Francisco narrowed his eyes. Slowly, he reached up and loosened her messy hair, letting it fall around her shoulders.

“Let’s ...