Beyond the Notebook

A rainy night of confessions

As Zac's lips met mine, the kiss was sweet and unexpected. But as he pulled away, his eyes were filled with a mix of apology and sincerity. "I'm so sorry," he said softly, "I've been wanting to kiss you since the beginning of the song. I didn't mean to rush things."

I looked into his eyes, a warm smile spreading across my face. "I wanted to kiss you too," I admitted. "Ever since you picked me up at the airport, I've been feeling this connection. It felt just right."

Zac's face lit up with a relieved smile, and he closed the gap between us, kissing me again, this time with a bit more passion. The rain began to fall, soft and steady, creating a gentle patter on the garden's stone path.

He pulled me close, lifting me off the ground in a joyous twirl. "Let's get inside before we both get soaked!" he said with a laugh. I took his hand, and together we ran back to the house, our laughter mingling with the sound of the rain.

Once inside, we quickly dried off and decided to take a hot shower to warm up. I slipped back into my chemise and robe, feeling cozy and content. I joined Zac in the living room, where he was preparing hot chocolate.

Zac handed me a steaming cup, the rich aroma filling the room. We settled on the sofa, the warmth of the hot chocolate comforting us. As we sipped, the conversation turned to our feelings and what the future might hold.

"I've been thinking," I began, looking down at my cup, "about how much I've enjoyed the time we've spent together. Last night was amazing, and this morning was even better. But... I'm also feeling anxious."

Zac looked at me with concern. "Anxious? About what?"

I took a deep breath. "I'm afraid of what will happen when I go back to France. I mean, what if you fall for someone else while I'm gone? What if you forget about me?"

Zac's eyes softened, he put the cup on the coffee table and he reached out to gently take my hand in his. "I understand why you're worried. I've been feeling the same way. But I want you to know that what we have is real. I've never felt this way about anyone before."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me, but there was still a trace of doubt in my voice. "But you're a celebrity. You're surrounded by beautiful people all the time. How can I be sure you won't find someone else?"

Zac took a moment, then said with heartfelt sincerity, "I know that being in the spotlight means I'm constantly surrounded by people, but it's you who I'm drawn to. The feelings I have for you are genuine. I've been thinking about us a lot, and I really care about you. I love you."

His words were a balm to my worried heart. I gazed at him, feeling a deep sense of connection. "I love you too, Zac. More than I ever thought I could. But what are we going to do to make this work? We live on opposite sides of the world."

Zac squeezed my hand. "We'll figure it out. I'm willing to do whatever it takes. We can stay in touch, visit each other, and make plans for the future. It won't be easy, but I believe it's worth it."

I nodded, feeling a sense of resolve and hope. "You're right. We can make this work. I just need to trust in us and in what we have."

Zac's smile was reassuring. "Exactly. We've got something special here, and I'm committed to making it work. Let's take it one step at a time and see where it leads."

After our deep conversation, Zac looked thoughtful for a moment. "You know, I've been thinking about what you said. About making this work and everything."

I nodded, my heart feeling lighter. "There's something I want to ask you, too."

Zac's curiosity was piqued. "What's that?"

I took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "I've recently started my own company called Norac. It's a film studio. The name is a combination of our names—Zac and Nora. I was wondering if you'd consider being my associate."

Zac's eyes widened in surprise and appreciation. "That's incredibly touching. I'm honored. What kind of company is Norac exactly?"

I smiled, glad to explain. "Norac is focused on producing films that tell unique and compelling stories. It's a place where creativity and passion come together. I'd love to have you be a part of that if you're interested."

Zac looked moved by the gesture. "I'm really flattered. I'll definitely think about it. It sounds like an amazing opportunity."

With a sense of renewed hope and commitment, we turned our attention to the evening ahead.

"Instead of cooking tonight, how about we order some pizza and have a 'Netflix and Chill' evening? I think it would be a nice way to relax and enjoy our last night together." Zac offered with a smile.

"I'd love that," I said with a smile. "But I get to pick the first movie."

He agreed, and I chose Hairspray, my all-time favorite. Zac ordered a vegetarian pizza for me and a pepperoni one for himself. As we settled in for the evening, the movie played, and we enjoyed the comfort of each other's company.

After the movie and pizza, I turned to Zac, feeling a mix of warmth and affection. "Can we...," I started hesitantly, "sleep together tonight? Just for the last night."

Zac's expression softened, and he nodded. "Of course."

As we lay together in the soft glow of the dimly lit room, Zac wrapped his arms around me, pulling me closer. The warmth of his embrace was comforting, and I could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat against my cheek. We gazed into each other's eyes, the quiet stillness of the night settling around us. Gently, he leaned in, brushing his lips against mine in a tender kiss. When we pulled back, he whispered, "Goodnight... I love you." Smiling softly, I kissed him once more, my heart full. "Goodnight... I love you too." We held each other close, drifting into sleep.

The day ends with us nestled together, the promise of a beautiful day ahead tempered by the bittersweet knowledge that this moment was fleeting.