Chapter 128

EMILIA

The vendor is beaming at him, probably because Liam is arguing over strawberries like it’s a playoff final. I lean against his arm, watching his hand gesture animatedly while he charms the poor woman into throwing in an extra pint “just because the missus looks like she deserves it.”

Missus. I don’t stand a chance.

By the time he’s finished, he’s swinging a paper bag full of strawberries in one hand, mine still trapped in the other.

“Do you flirt with every fruit seller, or just the ones with discounts?” I mutter.

His grin is shameless. “Only the ones who give me extra because you smiled.”

I groan, dragging my free hand down my face. “You’re insufferable.”

“Mm,” he hums, leaning close until his nose brushes my temple, voice dropping low so only I hear it. “And you love me anyway.”

I do. God help me, I do.

“And since when do you even know how to haggle?” I jab his arm. “You don’t look the type.”

“What—too polished? To