Page 20 of Desired By Eros

She caught the playful glint in his eyes and decided to match his tone. “That better not be a comment on my weight,” she said, arching an eyebrow.

He chuckled, the sound warm and unbothered. “Your weight? No, but for the record, I happen to like your body.”

“Well, that’s good, I guess,” she said, her tone sincere. “I’ve worked really hard to like it too.”

Eros shook his head, his grin growing. “Why do I even try?” he muttered.

She shrugged and gestured to the path ahead. “Where are we going, anyway?”

“There’s a pizza spot not far from here.”

“Pizza?” she echoed.

“Don’t worry,” he said, holding up a hand like he was trying to calm her down. “They’ve got other options, too, but they’re famous for their pizza. It’s Friday; you can give yourself a treat.”

She just gave him a look, and he grinned wider. “Fine,” he said. “I’ll give myself a treat. But don’t you dare ask for a slice.”

Psyche squinted at him. “I wouldn’t dream of it. Besides, you’d probably eat the whole thing before I got the chance to ask.”

Eros chuckled. “You know me so well.”

As they continued walking, he glanced sideways at her. “So, really, what’s with the appetite today?”

She shrugged. “It’s been a long week. Maybe my body knows I need the extra energy.”

“Or maybe,” he said, leaning in slightly, “you’re finally succumbing to the dark side. A world of indulgence awaits, Psyche.”

She gave him a side-eye. “Is that what pizza represents to you? The pinnacle of decadence?”

“Hey, don’t knock it,” he said, grinning. “Pizza is an art form. And this place? Pure magic.”

Psyche tilted her head thoughtfully. “I’ll be the judge of that.”

They reached the restaurant and ordered their food. “Prepare to have your mind blown. But just to be clear, you’re really not getting any of my pizza.”

“You’re awfully territorial about food for someone who doesn’t even need to eat.”

“It’s not about need. It’s about enjoying the finer things in life. And pizza is definitely one of them.”

“You talk a big game. This pizza better be as life-changing as you claim.”

Eros shot her a quick, confident smile. “Oh, it is. Trust me.”

Their table was overflowing with food when the server left. Psyche reached for her salad first, the fresh greens and vibrant vegetables calling to her. She’d also ordered something else—a small plate of roasted vegetables—but she slid it aside for now, focusing on her salad.

The rest of the table was dominated by Eros’s food: a large pizza loaded with toppings, wings, garlic knots, and even a side of pasta. It was almost comical.

Eros dove into the pizza immediately, pulling a cheesy slice free. “So,” he said between bites, “I went for a hike earlier. Tallest mountain in the area, of course. Incredible views, a little challenging, but worth it.”

Psyche nodded, listening as she chewed her salad. She couldn’t help sneaking glances at the pizza. The gooey cheese, the crisp crust, the perfectly charred toppings—it all looked so good.

If Eros noticed her gaze, he said nothing; he just kept talking about the hike. Finally, she gave in, reaching for a slice. The first bite was pure bliss—crispy, savory, and delicious.

She paused mid-chew, her eyes widening as she looked at Eros. “Shut up.”

Eros burst out laughing, his whole body shaking as he leaned back in his chair. “I didn’t even say anything!”

“You were thinking it,” she countered, taking another bite.

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