Thursday

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The next day, Thursday, Ava was in the kitchen, the morning light filtering through the windows as she prepared breakfast. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air. She hummed softly to herself, lost in the simple pleasure of cooking.

Justin quietly approached from behind, unable to resist the magnetic pull he felt towards her. Without a word, he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close in a gentle back hug. Ava stiffened slightly in surprise but then relaxed into his embrace, a smile spreading across her face.

"Good morning," Justin murmured, his breath warm against her ear. He pressed a soft kiss to her neck, sending a shiver down her spine.

"Good morning," Ava replied, her voice a mix of amusement and contentment. "I see someone woke up in a good mood."

"How could I not, with you here?" Justin whispered, his lips brushing against her skin again. "Need any help with breakfast?"

Ava laughed softly, turning her head to look at him. "I've got it under control, but your company is always welcome."

Justin tightened his hold briefly, savoring the closeness before reluctantly letting go. He leaned against the counter, watching Ava with a playful glint in his eyes. "You know, watching you cook might be my new favorite hobby."

"Oh really?" Ava raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "And what makes it so special?"

"Well," Justin began, a mischievous smile spreading across his face, "it's not just the cooking. It's the whole package—you, the way you move, the little hums you make. It's pretty captivating."

Ava felt her cheeks warm under his gaze, a mixture of bashfulness and delight. "Flatterer," she said, giving him a mock stern look. "You're lucky you're cute."

They continued their playful banter as they finished preparing breakfast. Once everything was ready, they sat down together, the conversation flowing easily, filled with laughter and light-hearted teasing.

After breakfast, they moved to the couch, deciding to continue their K-drama marathon. Justin settled in, pulling Ava close so that she was nestled against his chest. They watched in comfortable silence, the characters' emotions mirrored in their own growing connection.

As they watched, Ava felt a sudden curiosity bubble up inside her. She turned slightly to look at Justin, her eyes filled with curiosity. "So, what kind of books do you like to read?"

Justin's eyes lit up at the question. "I love reading novels, especially those with a 'strangers to lovers' trope. There's something magical about watching two people slowly discover each other and fall in love."

Ava playfully punched his arm, a smile tugging at her lips. "Shut up, you hopeless romantic."

Justin laughed, rubbing his arm dramatically. "What can I say? I'm a sucker for a good love story."

Ava shook her head, a fond smile on her face. "You're something else, Justin."

"Yeah," Justin agreed, his tone softening as he looked at her. "And I think that's why we work so well together."

Ava's heart fluttered at his words, the warmth of his gaze making her feel cherished and understood. She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. "I think so too."

They resumed watching their drama, the world outside fading away as they lost themselves in the story—and in each other. Cuddled up together, they felt a sense of peace and contentment, grateful for the unexpected journey that had brought them to this moment.

After a few episodes of their K-drama, Justin glanced at the clock and then at Ava, a playful smile forming on his lips. "You know, we've been sitting here for a while. How about we do something a bit more... active?"

Ava raised an eyebrow, curious. "What do you have in mind?"

"How about a dance?" Justin suggested, his eyes twinkling. "To your favorite song, 'Perfect' by Ed Sheeran."

Ava's face lit up, her smile radiant. "I'd love that."

Justin stood up and offered his hand to Ava, who took it with a giggle. He led her to the center of the living room, then reached for his phone and queued up the song. As the familiar opening chords began to play, he wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close.

*I found a love for me
Darling, just dive right in and follow my lead*

Ava rested her head against Justin's chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. She closed her eyes, letting the music wash over her, feeling the warmth and security of Justin's embrace.

*Well, I found a girl, beautiful and sweet
Oh, I never knew you were the someone waiting for me*

As Ed Sheeran's voice filled the room, they began to sway gently, their movements in perfect harmony with the music. Justin's hand was firm yet gentle on her waist, guiding her with an effortless grace. Ava lifted her head, meeting Justin's gaze, her eyes sparkling with happiness.

*'Cause we were just kids when we fell in love
Not knowing what it was
I will not give you up this time*

Justin spun Ava around, her laughter bubbling up as he twirled her gracefully. When she came back into his arms, he held her even closer, their foreheads touching, the moment filled with unspoken emotions.

*But darling, just kiss me slow, your heart is all I own
And in your eyes, you're holding mine*

They danced, lost in each other, the world around them fading away. Ava's heart swelled with love, each lyric resonating deeply with her feelings for Justin.

*Baby, I'm dancing in the dark with you between my arms
Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song*

Justin's eyes never left hers, his expression a mixture of tenderness and adoration. He could see his feelings mirrored in Ava's gaze, a silent communication that spoke volumes.

*When you said you looked a mess, I whispered underneath my breath
But you heard it, darling, you look perfect tonight*

As the song reached its crescendo, Justin slowed their movements, savoring the closeness. He leaned in, brushing his lips softly against Ava's, a kiss filled with all the emotions he couldn't put into words.

*Well I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know
She shares my dreams, I hope that someday I'll share her home*

When the song finally came to an end, they remained in each other's arms, swaying gently to the lingering melody. Ava looked up at Justin, her eyes glistening with tears of joy.

"That was perfect," she whispered.

Justin smiled, his voice equally soft. "No, you're perfect."

Ava laughed, her heart light. "You're such a charmer, Justin."

He grinned, his eyes shining with love. "Only for you, Ava."

They stayed like that for a moment longer, soaking in the intimacy and the profound connection they shared. Then, with a shared look of understanding, they returned to the couch, their hearts full and spirits high, ready to continue their day, knowing that they had something truly special.

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