Chapter 51: Your Smile Is.....

Walking closer to Nicholas, I crouched down in front of him, a playful pout forming on my lips.

"You know, manners matter," I teased, grinning impishly as I leaned in slightly closer. "If you want those cookies, you'll have to ask nicely. Say 'please,' and I might just whip them up for you."

I couldn't help but chuckle at the look on Nicholas's face, his expression bordering on amused disbelief, as if he thought I was completely nuts. But then, to my utter surprise, he spoke softly.

"Please,"

And it leaves me momentarily speechless. He just spoke to me gently, not those cold replies. My cheeks flushed as my heart started to race. Wow, here I am getting flustered at the bare minimum!

I stammered, "Consider it a payment for your help," trying to mask the sudden rush of emotions.

Feeling a bit flustered, I swiftly made my exit, hoping to distract myself. Rushing out of the room, I made my way into the kitchen, a smile crept across my face, and try as I might, I couldn't suppress it. The