_Leah's POV_
As the movie went on, Tariq kept up his light-hearted banter, throwing in teasing comments every now and then. When the couple on-screen shared a passionate kiss, Tariq leaned in closer.
"That could be us, you know," he said in a low, flirtatious tone.
I blushed and laughed nervously. "You’re incorrigible."
"Is that a bad thing?" he asked, his eyes gleaming with amusement.
I shook my head, unable to stop the smile that spread across my face. "Maybe not."
For the rest of the movie, we exchanged more playful remarks, and despite myself, I felt more relaxed than I had in days. Tariq had a way of making everything seem lighter and easier.
When the movie finally ended, I let out a contented sigh. "That was nice," I admitted.
Tariq turned to face me, his expression softer no
