Chapter 16:
Paddleboat Adventures
The following afternoon, Clara suggested a trip to Willow Creek Lake again—but this time, for paddleboats. The sun glinted off the water, and a gentle breeze made the day feel perfect.
“You know,” Liam said, securing a bright yellow paddleboat,“I’m starting to think you plan all these adventures just to see me struggle.”
Clara laughed, stepping into the boat.“Maybe… but you seem to enjoy it.”
Liam grinned.“I do. Somehow, even my failures feel fun with you around.”
They pushed off from the dock and began paddling toward the middle of the lake. At first, everything was smooth—until Liam misstepped, sending them spinning in a circle, laughing uncontrollably as water splashed over the sides.
“You call that paddling?” Clara teased, wiping water from her face.
“It’s advanced technique,” Liam shot back, splashing her lightly.
They continued like that, splashing each other, laughing, and racing toward the opposite shore. Clara felt lighter than she had in weeks, every giggle and playful splash making her heart swell.
After a while, they floated in the middle of the lake, catching their breath. Liam leaned back, eyes on Clara.“Youmake everything… better. Even spinning in circles and getting soaked.”
Clara smiled, brushing her fingers over his wet hair.“And you make ordinary things feel extraordinary. I guess that’s why I like being with you.”
He reached for her hand, squeezing it gently.“I like being with you too… more than I expected.”
For a few quiet moments, they simply held hands, letting the gentle sway of the boat and the calm of the water wrap around them. No words were necessary—their laughter, touches, and shared smiles spoke volumes.
As they paddled back to shore, Clara realized that summer wasn’t just about adventures or sun-soaked days—it was about the quiet, tender moments too. And with Liam, every moment, whether chaotic or calm, felt like it belonged to them.
Chapter 17:
The Picnic Mix-Up
Clara had planned a surprise picnic for Liam at the edge of Willow Creek Park. She packed sandwiches, lemonade, and his favorite chocolate cookies, imagining a quiet, romantic afternoon.
But when she arrived, she saw Liam already there, laughing with a group of friends she didn’t know. Her stomach twisted.“I guess he forgot I was planning something,” she muttered under her breath.
Liam noticed her from across the park and waved, unaware of her growing frustration. Clara took a deep breath, reminding herself not to overreact.“It’s fine,” she said, forcing a smile as she walked toward him.
“Clara! You made it!” Liam exclaimed, oblivious to her initial feelings.“I didn’t expect you so soon.”
“I… just got here,” she replied, hiding her irritation.
Liam gestured to the picnic blanket he’d set up.“I wanted to surprise you too, but I ended up inviting a few friends. I hope that’s okay?”
Clara paused, then sighed, letting herself smile.“It’s okay. Really. I just… I thought this was going to be just the two of us.”
He nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes.“I get it. I should’ve checked with you first. This day is about us, and I don’t want to ruin that.”
With that, he invited the friends to give them some space. Soon, it was just the two of them, sitting on the blanket, eating sandwiches, and laughing quietly together.
“You know,” Liam said, brushing a crumb from her cheek,“even our little mix-ups end up being memorable.”
Clara laughed softly, leaning against him.“I suppose you’re right. It’s messy, but it’s ours.”
As the sun dipped low, casting golden light across the park, Clara realized that summer with Liam wasn’t perfect—but it was theirs. And that was more than enough.
Chapter 18:
