Chapter 140: Master chef?

As Seraphina's breath hitched, I couldn't help but relish the bewildered look on her face. The surprise in her eyes was an intoxicating mix of challenge and admiration, a clear acknowledgment of the unexpected turn our little spar had taken.

"Cheating? Maybe," I teased, my voice low and playful as I held her arms firm but not unkind, my body just inches from hers. "But you must admit, it was an effective tactic." 

Her lips curved into that deliciously wicked smile, a spark of mischief igniting in her gaze. "Oh, I'll give you that," she replied, her tone conversational, but the air around us was charged with an excitement that pulsed between us. "But I think we both know this isn't over." 

With calculated slowness, I leaned back, my grip easing just slightly but still holding her in place. "It certainly isn't. But perhaps we should take a moment to catch our breath?"