Hannah blushed, unprepared for a kiss in front of so many people. She stood, then fled, fearing her photograph might be taken.
Ralph merely stared, ill-prepared for her reaction. "Hey, your fiancée got shy! Go after her!" someone yelled.
He smiled, catching himself. "You bet I will!" He strode after her. He'd prepared the suite upstairs; he wouldn't let her go.
Unfamiliar with the surroundings, Hannah reached the elevator and pressed the button. She glanced nervously over her shoulder toward the restaurant, torn between conflicting emotions. She longed for him to follow, yet dreaded his approach. She had to leave, despite her desire to stay; her sister would send someone for her.
It wasn't meant to be. No matter how perfect things seemed, the bubble would burst. She knew this, yet couldn't bear to leave, wanting to spend every moment with him.
Ralph caught her wrist. "Annie!" He'd found that calling her this softened her when she grew distant. He didn't know if it was a nickname, but to subdue her, he'd call her anything.
As he'd predicted, she blushed again. Pursing her lips, she tugged gently but didn't release her hand. Knowing her strength, Ralph was certain she was happy and reluctant to leave.
"I'm sorry," he said earnestly. "Did I do something to upset you? Tell me anything you're unhappy with, and I'll change it!"
Hannah shook her head. "No, I'm not upset. You did well. So well!" Everything was amazing; she'd never felt such happiness. The dinner, the atmosphere, his confession of love—it was the first time anyone had said those words to her. He might have meant it for Heather, but who cared? He said my name! She was starting to believe he truly liked her, not her sister.
"Did I make you shy?" he asked softly, looking down at her.
Blushing, she remained silent, offering no denial. He was pleased; he'd found her weakness. He wouldn't have been beaten up if he'd known he could tame her with "Annie" and sweet talk.
"Annie, I..."
Before he could finish, the elevator dinged, its doors opening, and passengers emerged.