I had some help

Twenty-two

Today was the day Bailey was to return. Alex was so excited, she cleaned her entire apartment and his whole house, making sure everything was perfect for his arrival. She wanted everything to be just right, a warm welcome after his time away.

As she fluffed the pillows on the couch for the third time, her mind drifted back to what Morgan had said a few weeks ago. "The fact that you feel bad means you care about him. You just need to figure yourself out." Those words had stuck with her, echoing in her mind as she prepared for Bailey's return.

She missed him so much, and the time apart had given her a lot to think about. She realized how much she valued their relationship and how important it was to be honest with him about her feelings and the mistakes she'd made.

The hours seemed to crawl by as she waited, her excitement and nervousness growing with each passing minute. She checked her phone constantly, waiting for the text that would let her know he was on his way.

Finally, around mid-afternoon, her phone buzzed. It was Bailey. "Just landed, heading home now. Can't wait to see you."

Alex's heart leapt with joy. She quickly finished her last-minute touches and then headed to Bailey's house to wait for him. She paced the living room, glancing out the window every few minutes, anticipation building.

When she finally saw his car pull into the driveway, she ran to the door, barely able to contain her excitement. As Bailey stepped out of the car, their eyes met, and she couldn't hold back any longer. She rushed to him, wrapping her arms around him in a tight embrace.

"Welcome home." She whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

Bailey hugged her back just as tightly. "I've missed you so much, Alex."

They stood there for a moment, just holding each other, before Bailey pulled back slightly to look at her. "You didn't have to clean everything." He said with a soft smile. "But I appreciate it."

Alex laughed, a bit embarrassed. "I just wanted everything to be perfect for you."

"It's perfect because you're here." Bailey replied, leaning in to kiss her gently.

The first thing Alex showed Bailey was the bedroom. She had missed him so much during their time apart, and she could see in his eyes that he felt the same way. As they walked down the hallway, her heart pounded with anticipation.

She opened the door to the bedroom, revealing a space that was immaculately clean and inviting. Fresh sheets were on the bed, and the room was softly lit with candles, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

Bailey turned to her, his eyes filled with longing. "I've missed you so much, Alex."

Without another word, Alex stepped closer, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him into a deep kiss. The weeks of separation melted away as they held each other, their connection reigniting with a passion that had been building in their absence.

They moved towards the bed, shedding their clothes with a sense of urgency and desire. As they lay down together, their bodies intertwined, Alex felt a rush of relief and happiness. Being with Bailey again felt like home.

Their lovemaking was intense and tender, a perfect blend of passion and love. Every touch, every kiss conveyed the depth of their longing and the strength of their bond. They moved together in perfect harmony, lost in each other.

Afterwards, they lay entwined in the soft glow of the candles, catching their breath and enjoying the warmth of their closeness. Alex rested her head on Bailey's chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

"I've needed this," She whispered. "I've needed you."

Bailey kissed the top of her head, his hand gently stroking her hair. "Me too. It feels so good to be home, with you."

As they lay there, wrapped in each other's arms, Alex felt a sense of contentment and peace. She knew there were still important conversations to be had, but for now, she was simply grateful to be with Bailey, to feel his presence and his love.

It was a balmy spring evening, and Bailey had planned a special night for Alex. They had been seeing each other for a few months, their connection growing stronger with each passing day. Bailey wanted to make things official and knew that tonight was the perfect time to ask Alex to be his girlfriend.

He picked her up at her apartment, presenting her with a bouquet of her favorite flowers. Alex's eyes lit up when she saw them, and she gave him a warm hug. "They're beautiful, Bailey. Thank you."

They drove to a quaint, cozy restaurant on the outskirts of town, known for its romantic ambiance and delicious food. As they entered, the soft glow of candlelight and the gentle hum of live jazz music set the perfect mood. Bailey had reserved a corner table with a view of the garden, where twinkling fairy lights added a touch of magic to the night.

Throughout dinner, they talked and laughed, sharing stories and enjoying each other's company. Bailey's heart raced with anticipation, but he managed to keep his nerves in check, wanting the moment to be just right.

After dessert, Bailey suggested a walk in the garden. Alex agreed, and they strolled hand in hand along the winding paths, the scent of blooming flowers filling the air. Bailey paused near a small fountain, where the sound of trickling water added to the serene atmosphere.

"Alex," Bailey began, turning to face her. He took both of her hands in his, his heart pounding in his chest. "There's something I want to ask you."

Alex looked up at him, her eyes filled with curiosity and warmth. "What is it, Bailey?"

Taking a deep breath, Bailey smiled, his nervousness melting away in the presence of her kind gaze. "These past few months have been incredible. I've never felt this way about anyone before, and I can't imagine my life without you. You're amazing, and you make me so happy."

Alex's eyes shimmered with emotion, her heart racing as she listened to his words.

"Will you be my girlfriend?" Bailey asked, his voice sincere and hopeful.

A radiant smile spread across Alex's face, and she nodded eagerly. "Yes, Bailey, I'd love to be your girlfriend."

Bailey let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, his heart swelling with joy. He pulled Alex into a tight embrace, their lips meeting in a tender, heartfelt kiss. The world seemed to fade away as they held each other, the promise of a beautiful future together sealed with that single, perfect moment.

When they finally pulled apart, Alex rested her forehead against Bailey's, her smile never fading. "You make me so happy too, Bailey. I can't wait to see where this journey takes us."

Bailey grinned, feeling a profound sense of contentment and excitement. "Me neither, Alex. Me neither."

They continued their walk through the garden, their hands intertwined, knowing that this was just the beginning of something truly special. The night was perfect, a memory they would cherish forever, marking the start of their official relationship and the many adventures that lay ahead.