“Can’t make it tonight. Something came up.”
Her stomach sank. She had been looking forward to their planned dinner, imagining the soft laughter, the quiet closeness. Now, uncertainty prickled at her.
She stared at her phone for a long moment, trying not to overthink.“Something came up”—was it really something unavoidable, or had he changed his mind?
By the time she walked to their usual café that evening, hoping for an explanation, Ethan was already there, waving as she approached.
“I’m so sorry,” he said, voice earnest.“I had to deal with a last-minute project. I should’ve messaged you earlier.”
Lila bit her lip, holding back frustration.“You could’ve been clearer,” she said softly, trying not to let irritation creep in.
He nodded, looking genuinely remorseful.“You’re right. I didn’t mean to make you worry.” He reached out, brushing her hand gently.“I hate seeing you upset.”
Her chest softened at his touch, the familiar warmth spreading through her.“I know,” she murmured,“I just… I hate feeling like I don’t know where I stand.”
Ethan’s eyes met hers, steady and patient.“You stand right here,” he said, holding her gaze.“Next to me. I’m not going anywhere.”
The tension between them eased, replaced by the quiet understanding that their connection was worth more than a misread text or a hectic day. Lila felt a small, relieved laugh escape her.
“Okay,” she said, smiling,“but next time, clearer messages, agreed?”
He grinned.“Agreed. And maybe dinner too?”
She nodded, heart lighter. As they walked side by side through the softly lit streets, Lila realized that slow-burn love wasn’t about perfection—it was about patience, trust, and the willingness to stay, even when misunderstandings arose.
And with Ethan beside her, she was more than willing to wait.
Chapter 13:
Weekend Escapes
Saturday morning dawned crisp and golden, the kind of day that begged for a spontaneous adventure. Ethan had called early, his voice warm with excitement.
“Pack a bag,” he said.“I’ve got a surprise weekend planned. No questions.”
Lila felt a thrill she hadn’t experienced in months. She hurriedly packed essentials, curiosity bubbling as she wondered where he might take her.
By late morning, they were driving along winding country roads, the city falling away behind them. Rolling hills, fields dotted with wildflowers, and the distant hum of nature stretched before them.
“Where are we going?” Lila asked, trying to hide her impatience.
“You’ll see,” Ethan replied, a mischievous smile tugging at his lips.
They arrived at a quaint, little cabin overlooking a sparkling lake. The view was breathtaking, the kind that made Lila’s heart swell with wonder.“Ethan… this is incredible,” she breathed.
He shrugged, grinning.“I thought it’d be a good place to… unwind. Just you, me, and no distractions.”
They spent the day exploring the lakeside, skipping stones and laughing at their clumsy attempts to balance on rocks. As the sundipped low, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, they sat on the cabin porch, sharing a thermos of cocoa.
“I’m glad you’re here,” Lila said softly, shoulders brushing against his.
Ethan’s hand found hers, fingers intertwining.“Me too,” he said quietly.“I’ve wanted to do this for a long time… just be with you, without anything else pulling us away.”
Lila’s heart fluttered. The slow burn she had felt for weeks now felt like a gentle fire, warming her from the inside out. She squeezed his hand.“I like this. I like us.”
Ethan smiled, leaning closer.“Me too. And I don’t plan on letting this fade.”
As night fell, they watched the stars emerge, the lake reflecting their soft glow. The world felt paused, just for them—a perfect moment, fragile and intimate, yet unforgettable.
