Modern Love

Chapter 6 - The Last Date

The next morning arrives, and it marks a significant milestone for us. We engage in "real" sex for the first time. It has been a week since we met and officially became a couple. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to meet Anthony's mom, which somehow makes it feel more acceptable and appropriate to take this step. I trust him completely, knowing that he will be considerate and cautious, always checking if I'm comfortable and ensuring that I don't experience any pain. The sensations we share, the harmonious rhythm of our bodies and the symphony of our moans, surpass any description I could ever conjure. It is an indescribable and incredible experience, taking our connection to a new level of intimacy.

Afterward, we decide to head to the supermarket to purchase ingredients for cooking. Later, we settle down to watch the Japanese anime movie, Violet Evergarden, together. We lie side by side on the bed, immersing ourselves in the storyline, and tears well up in our eyes when a poignant song about departure plays. The emotions wash over us because we both know that Anthony will be leaving within a week. A mere seven days ago, neither of us could have predicted the depth of our feelings for one another. It took us both by surprise, to be honest.

We spend the day exploring various activities, including playing the piano, admiring Anthony's artwork from his days in animation school before he quit, and studying Japanese together. I'm in awe of his talent and cannot believe that my boyfriend possesses such remarkable skills. His work is truly amazing, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be with him.

Time seems to slip away effortlessly, and I realize that I need to return home as I have plans to meet some classmates at school. We have decided to indulge in sushi at a local Japanese restaurant called Chiba. I ask Anthony if he would like to join us, but he politely declines, expressing his intention to go to the gym instead. He kindly offers to accompany me home to ensure that I rest before my outing.

Later in the evening, as I gather with my friends, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride as I proudly introduce my boyfriend to them. I never thought of myself as someone who would openly share details about my relationship, but I find myself unable to contain my excitement and the desire to recount the thoughtful things Anthony has done for me. I am truly happy now, basking in the joy of being with Anthony and feeling grateful for the love and care he brings into my life.

The next day arrives, and I am scheduled to go to Paris with my roommates for a four-day trip. This realization dawns on me that it might be the last time I see Anthony for a while. On Saturday, he sends me a text about it, and it leaves me feeling deeply upset. Despite the incredible time I'm having in Paris, I can't help but have his impending departure on my mind. I know I need to talk to him about our future plans, as we have never discussed them before, mainly due to the promise we made on the day we first met. We vowed to live in the moment and not dwell on the sad realities. But now, the situation has changed. Our relationship has evolved beyond what we initially anticipated.

"Hey, how's your day going?" I begin our conversation by discussing the various experiences I've had in Paris. However, I quickly steer the conversation to the heart of the matter. This is what I truly need to address. "So, what will happen after you leave France? I just want to clarify. I'm completely fine with whatever decision you make, but I want to know what you envision for us. Do you still want to be my boyfriend, or was it just a fun two weeks for you? It's okay either way, I just need to be sure." I speak cautiously, not wanting to pressure him. I genuinely mean every word, even if I may feel a little disappointed if Anthony admits that it was just a casual fling. I still respect his decision.

"No, I want you to believe me. I'm genuinely serious about you. If the circumstances were different, I wouldn't even question it and I would still want to be your boyfriend," Anthony responds, his voice filled with sincerity. "But," I interject, sensing there is more he wants to say. "But I've never been in a long-distance relationship, and I don't know if we can make it work. I don't want either of us to get hurt. From what my friends have experienced, and based on what I've heard, I have to admit, I'm quite skeptical." His admission resonates with me, and I can't help but feel a mix of emotions. I am glad to hear his earnestness, but the uncertainty of our future and the challenges of long-distance weigh heavily on my heart. "Yeah, I understand," I reply, my voice tinged with a touch of sadness.