**Chapter 18: A Sneaky Suggestion**

As they waited for their food to arrive, Peach couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. She was with Mario, and that was all that mattered. The atmosphere in the restaurant was lively, with the sounds of sizzling food and chatter filling the air. Mario leaned in close, his voice low and husky as he whispered, "You know, I was thinking... maybe after we eat lunch, we can head back to our room in the castle to have a little 'snack'." Peach's eyes widened in surprise, her cheeks flushing with a hint of pink. She knew exactly what Mario was implying, and she couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement at the suggestion. She glanced around the restaurant, making sure no one was listening in on their conversation. The other patrons seemed oblivious to their private exchange, but Peach still kept her voice down. "A snack, huh?" she replied, her voice playful and flirtatious. Mario nodded, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Yeah, something to hold us over until dinner," he said, his voice laced with innuendo. Peach chuckled, her heart racing with anticipation. She couldn't wait to see what the rest of the day had in store for her and Mario. Just then, their food arrived, and they dug in, savoring the delicious flavors of their meal. The spaghetti was cooked to perfection, and Peach couldn't help but feel grateful for the wonderful culinary skills of the chef at Toad's Kitchen. As they ate, Mario couldn't take his eyes off Peach, his gaze lingering on her face and her hair. She felt a flutter in her chest, knowing that he was still thinking about their whispered conversation. The meal flew by quickly, and before they knew it, they were finishing up their dessert. Mario signaled for the check, and as they waited for the bill to arrive, Peach couldn't help but wonder what the rest of the day had in store for her and Mario. The check arrived, and Mario paid for their meal, his movements swift and efficient. As they left the restaurant, Peach felt a sense of excitement building up inside her. She knew that she was in for a treat, and she couldn't wait to see what Mario had planned for their "snack".