Forbidden || Theo James

seven / peonies

how is the storyline going for you? tell me in the comment section!

(word count:1326)

Throughout the entire break, Aaron and I spent almost every day together. We explored different parts of the city, tried out new cafes, and even had a few cozy movie nights at his place. His presence was comforting and constant, a stark contrast to the chaotic feelings I had experienced with Theo. Aaron's sweetness, intelligence, and genuine care for me made me start seeing him as more than just a friend. I found myself looking forward to our time together more and more, feeling a warmth spread through me whenever he was near. One evening, we were sitting on a bench in the park, watching the sunset. Aaron had brought a thermos of hot chocolate, and we were sipping it as the sky turned brilliant shades of pink and orange.

"You know," I said, breaking the comfortable silence, "I'm really glad we spent this break together."

"Me too," he replied, looking at me with those warm, green eyes. "I've really enjoyed getting to know you better, Rosie."

I smiled, feeling my heart flutter. "You've been amazing, Aaron. I don't know what I would've done without you these past few weeks."

He reached out and took my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I'm just glad I could be there for you. And I hope we can keep this going, even when classes start again."

"I'd like that," I said softly.

As the break drew to a close, the campus started to come back to life with students returning for the final stretch of the semester. Aaron and I found ourselves falling into an easy routine, balancing our time between studying and spending time together. One morning, as we walked to our first class of the new term, Aaron turned to me with a playful smile. "Ready to ace these finals?"

"Absolutely," I replied, feeling more confident than I had in a long time.

We entered the lecture hall, taking our seats and preparing for the challenges ahead. As the professor began to speak, I glanced over at Aaron, feeling a sense of contentment settle over me.

As I stepped out of the exam hall, a wave of relief washed over me. The hardest part of the finals was over, and I could finally breathe again. I spotted Anne in the student lounge, her bright smile and excited wave instantly lifting my spirits.

"Hey, you!" she called out, rushing over to give me a hug. "How did it go?"

"Not too bad," I replied, returning the hug. "I'm just glad it's over. What about you?"

"Pretty good," she said with a confident nod. "But let's grab some coffee and catch up properly."

We headed to our favorite coffee shop, opting for takeout so we could chat as we walked back to our dorm. Anne was practically glowing with happiness, and I knew she had something exciting to share.

"So, how are things with Joseph?" I asked, taking a sip of my latte.

"Oh my gosh, Rosie, it's been amazing," she gushed. "He's so sweet and thoughtful. The other day, he surprised me with a picnic in the park. And then last night, we went stargazing. He's just...perfect."I smiled, genuinely happy for her. "That sounds wonderful, Anne. I'm really glad you found someone who makes you so happy."

"Thanks," she said, blushing slightly. "I feel really lucky."

As we continued our walk, chatting about classes and plans for the upcoming break, we finally reached our dorm. Opening the door, we were greeted by a sight that left us both speechless. The room was filled with peonies, their soft pink and white petals creating a stunning display.

"What on earth...?" Anne whispered, her eyes wide with surprise.

I stepped further into the room, carefully navigating through the flowers. "This is incredible. Who could have done this?"

Anne picked up a small card that was nestled among the flowers. "There's a note," she said, handing it to me.

I opened it and read aloud, "To Rosie and Anne, wishing you both the best of luck on your finals and a reminder of how special you are. From someone who cares."

We exchanged puzzled glances. "Do you think it was Aaron?" Anne asked, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.

"I don't know," I replied, feeling a mix of emotions.

I carefully arranged the last of the peonies into vases and buckets, trying to calm my racing thoughts. As I did, I spotted another note hidden among the flowers. "Meet me at the Quode at 6," it read.

My heart skipped a beat. Could it be Theo? I wondered silently, but I kept the thought to myself. Instead, I slipped the note into my pocket, deciding not to mention it to Anne. She would definitely disapprove of me meeting Theo, especially after everything that had happened.

After tidying up our room, I stepped into the shower, letting the warm water soothe my nerves. As I got ready, I chose a thin beige strapped dress made of silk atlas and slipped into a black coat to ward off the evening chill.

"Anne, I have to go," I called out as I hurriedly finished my makeup. "I have a date with Aaron!"

Anne peeked into the bathroom, a teasing smile on her face. "Ooh, a date, huh? You look amazing, Rosie."

I smiled gratefully at her. "Thanks, Anne. I'll see you later." With that, I hurried out of the apartment, my heart racing with anticipation.

As the snowflakes gently brushed my face in the dimming light, I arrived at the Quode, feeling a mix of nerves and curiosity. Inside, a pleasant lady greeted me at the reception, her warm demeanor contrasting with the cool evening air that followed me in.

"Good evening, reservation name please?" she asked with a friendly smile, her voice carrying a hint of anticipation for the evening ahead.

"Hello, I think it's Rosie... maybe?" I replied, my voice betraying a touch of uncertainty, though my smile tried to mask it.

She checked her log with a practiced ease, her eyes scanning the names until they settled on mine. "Ah, yes, come with me," she said warmly, gesturing for me to follow her up the grand staircase that led to the upper level of the restaurant.

Ascending, I marveled at the newfound view of the city unfolding before me, the twinkling lights below creating a romantic ambiance that stirred something within me. Upon reaching the balcony, I was struck by the breathtaking panorama laid out before me. The table for two awaited, adorned with soft, flickering candles that cast gentle shadows across the linen tablecloth.

"Here is your table," the receptionist announced, her voice hushed in reverence for the setting. "The gentleman who made the reservation asked me to give you this," she added, handing me a small, elegantly sealed envelope.

"Oh, thank you," I murmured gratefully, my fingers trembling slightly as I took it from her hand.

Alone now, I hung my coat on a nearby hook, the air around me filled with a mixture of nervous anticipation and the subtle fragrance of the candles. Seated, I settled into the plush chair, my eyes lingering on the envelope resting before me on the table.

"Haven't guessed yet?" I read aloud, my mind racing through possibilities as I pondered the mysterious sender. The puzzle pieces of the evening's events seemed to converge on one person, though part of me resisted believing it could be true.Footsteps echoed down the stairs, drawing my attention away from my thoughts. Turning slowly, I caught sight of him...