Lonely hearts

25. A year later

A year had passed since that first magical date at the restaurant, and life had settled into a delightful routine for Matt and me. We had experienced countless adventures, both big and small, and each day seemed to bring us closer together. Our love was strong and deeply rooted, and it was clear that we wanted to spend our lives together.

On a sunny morning, we sat together in the park, at the same spot where we had often sat during our early dates. It was a place full of memories and joy, a symbol of our growing relationship. We sat on a picnic blanket, surrounded by the gentle rustling of the trees and the cheerful singing of the birds.

Matt reached for my hand and squeezed it gently. "Do you remember the first time we sat here? It felt so special even then."

I smiled and nodded. "Yes, I remember it well. It was the beginning of so many beautiful things."

He looked at me with a warm smile, his eyes glistening in the sunlight. "I'm so glad we found each other, Olivia. You are my everything."

I felt a wave of love and gratitude wash over me. "Me too, Matt. You complete my life."

We spent the morning talking, laughing, and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a perfect reflection of our life together—full of love, support, and happiness. After our picnic, we decided to take a walk by the lake, hand in hand, enjoying the peace and beauty of nature.

As the afternoon progressed, we headed back to the triplets' house, where Chris and Nick were already expecting us. They had prepared a surprise for us, as they often did. Upon entering, we were greeted with a room full of decorations and the delicious smell of homemade pizzas.

"Welcome home, lovebirds!" Nick exclaimed, handing us a drink. "We have something special planned for you."

Chris came over and gave us both a hug. "We wanted to do something to celebrate how far you two have come. You deserve it."

We were overwhelmed by their kindness and love. The evening was filled with laughter, stories, and memories of the past year. It was a perfect example of how our relationship had enriched not only us but also our friends and family.

Later that night, after everyone had left and the house had grown quiet, Matt and I went to his room together. We sat next to each other on the bed, enjoying the silence and each other's company.

"Matt," I began softly, "I am so grateful for you. For everything you do for me and for the love we share."

He looked at me, his gaze serious and loving. "Me too, Olivia. You are my world. And I want you to know that I will always be here for you, no matter what."

We kissed gently, a confirmation of our love and commitment to each other. It was a moment of pure bliss, knowing that we were strong together and ready for whatever the future might bring.

The days that followed were filled with joy and new adventures. We explored new places, created new memories, and supported each other through thick and thin. Our relationship grew and flourished, and each day brought us closer together.

One evening, while we lay together under the stars, Matt whispered in my ear, "Do you know what the best thing is about being together, Olivia? That we are not just lovers, but best friends."

I smiled and felt a tear of joy roll down my cheek. "Yes, that is the best thing. You are my everything, Matt. And I can't wait to spend the rest of our lives together."

And so, we closed our story, hand in hand, ready for whatever life had to offer. Because together we were happy, and that was all we ever needed.