78

The kiss between Zahir and Emily intensified, their shared warmth becoming a refuge from the biting cold. As their lips moved against each other with increasing fervour, the boundaries between them blurred, their desires taking over. The cold air in the treehouse heightened their senses, making every touch, every breath feel electrified, as if the chill outside only fueled the fire between them.

Zahir’s hand slid up Emily’s back, his fingers curling around the nape of her neck as he deepened the kiss. Emily responded eagerly, her hands gripping his jacket, pulling him closer. She could feel his heart pounding in sync with hers, the rhythm mirroring the escalating passion between them.

"Emily," Zahir murmured against her lips, his voice rough with desire, "you are driving me crazy."

"Good," Emily whispered back smugly, her breath warm against his cheek. "That makes two of us."

Their lips met again, more fervent, more desperate this time. Zahir’s hands found the hem of Emily’s shirt, an