In a puff of smoke

Comfort

The weeks flew by in a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation for Alina and Jackson. They navigated their budding relationship with late-night texts, heartfelt phone calls, and occasional visits whenever Jackson's busy schedule allowed. Despite the distance that often separated them, their connection only seemed to grow stronger with each passing day.

As Jackson embarked on another round of international promotions and performances, Alina found herself adjusting to the rhythm of their long-distance relationship. She cherished their nightly conversations, where they shared stories of their days and dreams for the future. Even though they couldn't be physically together, their bond felt tangible and comforting.

One evening, after a particularly hectic day at work, Alina sank into her favourite armchair, grateful for a moment of quiet. She reached for her phone, instinctively checking for any messages from Jackson. Sure enough, there was a text waiting for her.

Jackson: Hey love, how was your day? Thinking of you. ❤️

Alina: Hey babe, it was busy but good. Just happy to hear from you. 😊❤️

They exchanged a few more texts, their conversation flowing effortlessly as they caught up on each other's lives. As the evening progressed, Jackson's messages became more frequent, his longing to see her evident in every word.

Jackson: Wish I could be there with you right now.

Alina: Me too. But soon, right? 😊

Jackson: Definitely. I miss you so much. Can I call you?

Alina's heart skipped a beat at the thought of hearing his voice. She quickly replied, her fingers tingling with anticipation.

Alina: Of course! I'd love that.

Within moments, her phone rang, and she answered eagerly. Jackson's voice, warm and familiar, filled her ears, instantly melting away the distance between them.

"Hey, babe," he greeted softly. "I needed to hear your voice."

"Hi, Jackson," Alina replied, a smile spreading across her face. "I've missed you."

They talked for what felt like hours, sharing their thoughts, dreams, and even the mundane details of their day. Jackson told her about the latest cities he had visited, the fans he had met, and the music he was working on. Alina listened intently, feeling a sense of pride and admiration for the man she was falling for.

As their conversation drew to a close, Jackson hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Alina," he said, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity, "there's something I want to do."

Curiosity piqued, Alina leaned closer to her phone. "What is it?"

"I want to see you," Jackson said simply. "Can we video call?"

Alina's heart skipped a beat. Jackson had never initiated a video call before. She could hear the vulnerability in his voice, the desire to bridge the physical distance between them.

"Of course," she replied softly, her own heart racing with excitement.

They switched to a video call, and within seconds, Jackson's face appeared on her screen. He looked tired but happy to see her, his eyes lighting up as they locked onto hers.

"Hey," he murmured, a tender smile playing on his lips. "I just needed to see your face after a long day."

Alina couldn't help but smile back, her heart swelling with affection. "I'm so glad you called," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

They spent the next hour talking and laughing, their conversation flowing effortlessly as if they were sitting across from each other. Jackson shared stories of his travels, showing her glimpses of the bustling cities and beautiful landscapes he had encountered. Alina shared anecdotes from her own life, feeling grateful for this intimate moment with him.

As the call drew to a close, Jackson's expression softened. "Thank you for always being there," he said sincerely. "You mean the world to me, Alina."

Touched by his words, Alina felt a surge of warmth and affection for the man on her screen. "You mean the world to me too, Jackson," she replied softly.

They said their goodbyes reluctantly, both reluctant to end the call. But as Alina settled back into her armchair, she couldn't wipe the smile off her face. Despite the miles that separated them, she knew that their love was growing stronger with each passing day—a love that transcended distance and time zones, anchored in the deep connection they shared.

And as Jackson continued on his journey, his heart felt lighter knowing that he had someone like Alina to come home to—a steady presence in the whirlwind of his life, a partner who understood him in ways no one else did.

Together, they were writing their story—one filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a future where they could bridge the distance and build a life together, no matter where their paths may lead.