“Ooh, good idea,” Paige agrees. “And maybe we could transition from there to the main street decorations?”
As we continue to discuss editing ideas, I find myself getting more and more excited about the project. “You know,” I say, “I never thought I’d enjoy being behind a camera this much. It’s a whole new way of seeing the world.”
Paige beams at me. “You’re a natural. Just wait until we start putting it all together. It’s going to be amazing, Noah. Our first collaborative piece!”
I can’t help but smile at the way she said first–as if there will be a second. “I can’t wait to see the final product. It’s going to be special, isn’t it?”
“More than special,” Paige assures me. “It’s going to be the start of something wonderful. I can feel it.”
When we pull up in front of my house, Paige turns to me, her eyes serious but kind. “You know, Noah, I think you might have found something special today. You have a real talent both for art and for being behind the camera. But whatever you decide to do with it, just know that I believe in you. And I’m here to support you every step of the way.”
As I look at her, backlit by the setting sun, her hair a halo of gold, something stirs deep within me. A certainty, small but growing stronger by the day.
Her eyes reflecting the warm hues of the sunset, and I feel a sense of freedom I’ve never known before. Without thinking, I reach out, gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. My hand lingers, cupping her cheek, and I’m struck by how right this feels. Paige leans into my touch, her eyes never leaving mine.
“Noah,” she whispers, my name a gentle caress on her lips.
I don’t reply with words. Instead, I lean in, closing the distance between us. Our lips meet, soft and tentative at first, then with growing confidence. The kiss is everything I never knew I wanted and more.
As we kiss, I feel as though I’m floating and grounded all at once. Paige’s warmth, her scent, the softness of her lips against mine—it all anchors me to this perfect moment. I’m not sure I could draw this if I wanted. It would be abstract–all warm colors, soft curves, and definitive lines, signifying that this is exactly what I want.
When we finally part, a smile tugs at my lips, mirrored on Paige’s face. In her eyes, I see a reflection of my own emotions—wonder, happiness, and a deepening affection that makes my heart swell.
I may not know exactly what I want for my future, for my art, but I know, with absolute clarity, that I want Paige to be a part of it. And for now, that’s more than enough.
As we say our goodnights, the promise of tomorrow - of more parade planning, more adventures, and church together - hangs between us like a shimmering thread of possibility.
Back in my house, I pull out the drawer where I hastily stashed my sketches of Paige. Looking at them now, I think it’s time to start sharing my art with the world. And maybe, just maybe, I’m starting to figure out what I want after all.
Eleven
WILL
The soft chiming of celestial bells fills the air as I make my way through the pearly corridors of the Angel Institute.
I pause outside Henry’s office to center myself and prepare for the meeting ahead. The door before me is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, intricate clockwork patterns swirling across its surface in a dance of light and shadow. I raise my hand to knock, but before my knuckles can make contact, the door swings open of its own accord.
“Come in, Will,” Henry says. “I’ve been expecting you.”
Of course, he has. Sometimes, I wonder if there’s anything that escapes Henry’s notice.
I step into his office and close the door behind me.
Henry moves to sit behind his gleaming wood desk, a kind smile on his face. The light in the room seems to gravitate toward him, casting a gentle glow around his silver hair. “Have a seat,” he says, gesturing to one of the plush chairs.
I sink into the seat, the cushion molding to my form in a way that should be comforting. But comfort is the last thing on my mind right now.
“What’s troubling you, Will?” Henry asks.
I take a deep breath, trying to organize my thoughts. “It’s about Noah,” I begin, the words tumbling out in a rush. “I don’t think I’m the right angel for this assignment. Everything I do seems to go wrong. I tried to help him network with a gallery owner, but he deflected the spotlight to Paige. And now... now I don’t even know what I’m supposed to be doing. Paige is doing all the work on him—giving him confidence and a reason to spend more time doing what he loves. I’m a very unneeded third wheel.”
Henry listens patiently, his expression one of understanding. When I pause to catch my breath, he leans forward, folding his hands on the desk. “And why do you think Paige is able to influence him so easily?”
“I don’t know. Because he likes her.” I throw my hands up in exasperation. “Because she’s easy to talk to, and she pays attention to him.”
Henry chuckles, the sound like warm honey. “Love is a powerful tool, and unconditional acceptance and love can change people in ways they never saw coming.” He leans back in his chair, regarding me thoughtfully. “Do you remember why you were chosen for this particular assignment?”
I furrow my brow, thinking back to when I first read my assignment letter. “Because... because Noah needs to rediscover his passion? To learn to embrace life?”
