Lost in the Northern Lights

Chapter 3

From that day on, everything unfolded quickly, resembling the best romantic comedies. Love sparked from the first touch of a guitar string to impress the girl. Eva, true to her newfound cautious nature, approached their budding relationship with careful intention, taking each step with purpose and allowing herself to be consumed by it gradually, rather than recklessly. And yet, Alex had already fallen head over heels for her. In her presence, he felt at ease and enchanted. Alex's gestures of affection and his relentless courtship, despite being sometimes excessive, were precisely what any girl could dream of - a continuous, candy-coated period of adoration that seemed destined to last a lifetime. With every interaction, Alex revealed himself to be a genuine gentleman, earning Eva's favor.

On a balmy evening in June, as they cozied up in Eva's petite bed, Alex caressed her hair and whispered a heartfelt sentiment:

"I wish there was a surgical procedure that could divide our two hearts in half, connecting each piece to the other. That way, we would share a single heartbeat, and our togetherness would endure for eternity."

Eva couldn't help but shudder at the unusual request, yet she greeted it with an understanding smile, finding the mixture of creepiness and romance oddly endearing.

"Well," she said, barely holding back a laugh, "such an idea might make my surgeon father raise an eyebrow."

"I'm determined to meet him and pitch this notion," Alex said with conviction. He leaned back on his elbows and tapped the index finger of his right hand in the air against an invisible table in an orderly tone.

Part of his idea became a reality, as Alex could beg Eva if he could meet her parents. With Eva's help, he prepared for the occasion, armed with a stunning bouquet for her mother and a bottle of fine cognac for her father, a cherished indulgence reserved for special evenings.

As they embarked on this significant milestone, their bond grew stronger. Whenever Eva received a call from one of her parents while in Alex's presence, he attempted to squeeze his way toward the phone, yearning for a chance to exchange words with Mr. or Mrs. Davis.

Eva's parents found Alex's persistent attempts to connect with them worthy to be praised, although they considered it intrusive sometimes. They attributed it to his youthful infatuation and his eagerness to win not only their daughter's heart but also their approval. However, their hearts melted with warmth whenever he expressed his gratitude for bringing Eva into the world.

Eva herself was unsure of the specific reasons he should thank her parents for. She didn't consider herself flawless but just a diligent student, a creative soul with a good sense of humor, that's all. She pondered which of these qualities made her unique. Unfortunately, her charming appearance sometimes became a two-faced weapon; while Eva basked in the attention of the gentlemen, they often exploited her naivety. But whenever these thoughts crossed her mind and Alex sensed her inner doubts, he would intervene with gentle reassurance.

"I don't love you for certain qualities," he said sometimes, urging her to look beyond her perceived flaws. Eva would nod in agreement, look away, and quickly change the subject to avoid any unintended declarations of love from Alex. It was too soon, but his face radiated an eagerness to proclaim his love for her to the world.

The matter of the name for Alex's cover band was also resolved promptly. After five years of existence without one, the boys were finally taking their first steps toward the grand stage. It was about time they invented a suitable moniker.

Eva's Lullaby

Alex proudly proclaimed at the start of one of their rehearsals, where he had, as usual, convinced Eva to accompany him. "It's sheer genius."