Hannah blinked, relief mixing with lingering unease.“A fan letter?”
“Yes,” he said, stepping closer.“I mean, look at it—how could anyone take it seriously? But I wanted you to know, first. You’re the one I care about, Hannah. Always.”
Hannah felt the tension leave her chest, replaced by a warm, fluttering sensation.“You could have just told me,” she murmured, a small smile tugging at her lips.
“I know,” Ethan admitted, brushing a damp strand of hair from her face.“But I didn’t want to ruin our boardwalk peace. I wanted to handle it quietly.”
Hannah laughed softly, shaking her head.“You and your quiet handling. It’s part of your charm, I suppose.”
He grinned, holding her hand.“Part of my charm, huh? Then let me charm you properly.”
They walked along the boardwalk together, the letter forgotten, replaced by playful teasing and soft glances. The brief scare had reminded Hannah how much she trusted him, how strong their slow-burning connection had become.
And as the sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the water gold, Hannah realized that love—slow, steady, and patient—was worth every flutter, every worry, and every heartbeat spent waiting for moments like this.
Chapter 16:
The Surprise Visitor
The boardwalk was quiet that evening, the fading light casting soft shadows across the weathered wood. Hannah was sketching the lighthouse in the distance when she noticed movement near the bench.
Ethan was already there, of course, but this time he wasn’t alone. A young man, probably in his twenties, stood beside him, holding a camera.
“Hannah!” Ethan called, waving her over.“I want you to meet Alex—he’s a photographer I’ve been helping with a project.”
Hannah smiled politely, though a small pang of nervousness tightened her chest.“Hi,” she said softly.
Alex nodded, friendly.“Hi, I’ve heard a lot about your sketches. Ethan’s told me you’re amazing.”
Ethan elbowed her lightly, a playful grin on his face.“See? Told you she’s talented.”
Hannah laughed, feeling some of her nerves ease. But as Alex chatted about photography techniques, she noticed Ethan’s attention never wavered from her. Even when explaining a camera lens, he’d glance at her, eyes warm, protective, and teasing all at once.
After a while, Alex packed up his gear and waved goodbye. Ethan turned to Hannah, brushing a damp strand of hair behind her ear.“See? Nothing to worry about. Just a friend.”
Hannah smiled, her chest fluttering.“I know… I just hate feeling like I have to compete for your attention.”
Ethan laughed softly, taking her hand.“You’re not competing, Hannah. You’re the reason I show up here every evening. You’re the reason my sketches, my letters, my day… everything feels brighter.”
Hannah felt her heart swell.“I feel the same,” she whispered.
Ethan leaned closer, resting his forehead against hers.“Then let’s keep enjoying this, just us. No distractions, no misunderstandings. Just… slow, steady, us.”
Hannah closed her eyes, letting the warmth of his presence settle around her. The slow burn of their love—built through letters, sketches, and quiet confessions—was stronger than ever, and she realized that no unexpected visitor could ever change the bond they were forming.
Chapter 17:
Hidden Paths
The weekend brought a rare free morning for both of them. Hannah had suggested exploring the cliffs just outside town, a place she had always wanted to sketch but never dared to visit alone.
Ethan arrived at her door with a small backpack and an excited grin.“Ready for an adventure?”
Hannah smiled, looping her arm through his.“Lead the way.”
The path was narrow and winding, overgrown in places, but the challenge made it exhilarating. They walked side by side, exchanging playful banter about who had the better sense of direction. When Ethan stumbled over a loose rock, Hannah caught him, laughing at the way he flailed dramatically.
“You’re ridiculous,” she teased, steadying him.
