Silent Secrets ✔

3| Let's Make A Pact

The days turned into weeks and Liv and Stefan quickly fell back into their old rhythms, as if no time had passed since college. Liv's presence at Hastings Enterprises brought a sense of vibrancy and creativity, making the workplace more dynamic and engaging. For Stefan, her return was like a breath of fresh air, infusing his high-pressure life with a much-needed dose of normalcy and fun.

One Friday evening, after a long week, Stefan found himself standing in front of Liv's desk. She was engrossed in her work, her brow furrowed in concentration as she reviewed a design proposal. Stefan smiled to himself, appreciating her dedication and talent.

"Hey, Liv," he called out, leaning against the doorframe. "Got any plans for tonight?"

Liv looked up, a playful glint in her eye. "Why, Mr. Hastings, are you asking me out on a date?"

He chuckled. "Not exactly. How about a throwback to our college days? Pizza, movies and maybe a few rounds of Mario Kart?"

Liv's face lit up with a grin. "You're on! But don't think I've forgotten how you used to cheat at Mario Kart."

"I did not cheat! I was just...strategically skilled," Stefan defended with a laugh. "I'll order the pizza. You pick the movies."

That evening, Stefan's penthouse was filled with laughter and the smell of freshly delivered pizza. They sprawled on the couch, surrounded by a fortress of pillows and blankets, and immersed themselves in their favorite old movies. It felt just like old times, with playful banter and easy camaraderie.

"Remember this scene?" Liv asked, her eyes sparkling as they watched a classic comedy. "We must've watched this a hundred times in college."

"I remember," Stefan said, smiling at the memory. "You always quoted it word for word."

Liv laughed, mimicking the actor's exaggerated expressions and causing Stefan to burst out laughing.

After the movies, they set up the gaming console and began their Mario Kart marathon. As they raced through colorful tracks, their competitive sides emerged, with playful trash-talking and lots of laughter. Liv managed to win a few rounds, much to her delight, while Stefan pretended to be a sore loser.

"Okay, okay, you win this time," Stefan conceded, raising his hands in mock surrender. "But I demand a rematch."

Liv smirked. "Anytime, Mr. Hastings. Anytime."

As the night wore on, they found themselves talking about everything and nothing— their hopes, their dreams and the funny little moments that had shaped their friendship over the years. Liv felt a sense of comfort and belonging that she hadn't experienced in a long time.

"Stefan, thank you for this," she said softly, her eyes reflecting the city lights outside. "I've missed this— missed us."

"Me too, Liv," Stefan replied, his voice equally soft. "You have no idea how much I've missed having you around. You make everything... better."

Their eyes met and for a moment, the air between them seemed to thicken with unspoken words and emotions. Liv felt her heart race, but she quickly broke the gaze, not wanting to overthink things.

"Let's make a pact," she said, breaking the tension. "No matter what, we'll always find time for moments like these. Deal?"

Stefan smiled and held out his pinky finger. "Deal."

Liv linked her pinky with his, sealing the promise with a laugh. They settled back into their comfortable rhythm, the unspoken bond between them growing stronger with each passing day.

As weeks turned into months, Liv continued to bring a sense of normalcy and fun into Stefan's life. They developed little rituals—morning coffee runs, lunchtime walks in the nearby park and spontaneous adventures around the city. Their friendship blossomed, filling Stefan's life with joy and lightness that balanced the high stakes and pressures of running a billion-dollar company.

One sunny Saturday, they decided to visit the city's famous botanical gardens. It was a place they had always loved in college and they spent hours wandering through the lush greenery, admiring the vibrant flowers and exotic plants.

"Do you remember the time we snuck in here after hours?" Liv asked, a mischievous glint in her eye.

Stefan laughed. "How could I forget? We almost got caught by the security guard and you convinced him we were there for a late-night botany project."

Liv giggled. "He totally bought it! We were such rebels."

As they walked, Liv's laughter and carefree spirit seemed to lift a weight off Stefan's shoulders. For a while, he could forget about the constant demands of his job and simply enjoy the moment.

They found a quiet spot by a serene pond and sat down, watching the koi fish swim lazily beneath the water's surface. Liv leaned back, closing her eyes and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

"This is nice," she said softly. "I needed this."

"Me too," Stefan replied, his gaze fixed on her. "You have a way of making everything better, Liv. I don't know how I got through these past few years without you."

Liv opened her eyes and looked at him, her expression softening. "You did just fine, Stefan. Look at everything you've accomplished. But I'm glad I'm here now. I missed you more than I can say."

Their eyes locked and once again, that familiar warmth and unspoken connection filled the air. Liv felt her heart flutter, but she quickly looked away, focusing on the pond.

As they sat there in comfortable silence, Stefan couldn't help but marvel at how much Liv had changed his life in such a short time. She brought a sense of balance, grounding him in a way no one else could. And as much as he valued their friendship, he couldn't deny the growing feelings he had for her.

For now, though, he was content to enjoy the moment, grateful for the laughter, the lightness and the joy that Liv brought into his life. Whatever the future held, he knew that with her by his side, he could face anything.

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