Stutter

Chapter Twenty-One

Captured Moments

**Chris's Perspective**

The night air was cool and crisp as Chris and Arielle walked hand in hand back towards their apartment building, the laughter and energy of the movie still bubbling between them. The streets were illuminated by soft streetlights, their glow casting a gentle warmth over the sidewalk.

Arielle smiled up at Chris, their steps perfectly in sync, feeling a deep sense of contentment. The evening had been delightful—filled with shared excitement over the film, whispered jokes, and quiet moments that solidified their growing connection.

As they turned a corner, they noticed a street photographer setting up his camera. He was an older gentleman with a keen eye, capturing fleeting moments of life through his lens.

As Chris and Arielle approached, the photographer quickly raised his camera, snapping a picture of the pair walking hand in hand. The click of the shutter echoed faintly in the night air.

The photographer lowered his camera and approached them with a friendly smile. “I hope you don’t mind,” he said, his voice rich with warmth, “but I couldn’t resist capturing such a beautiful couple.”

Arielle felt a slight blush creep up her cheeks as she smiled back at the photographer. "Thank you," she replied softly, feeling a mix of surprise and delight.

The photographer handed them a printed copy of the photo. It was a candid shot, perfectly capturing the natural ease and happiness on their faces.

Chris looked at the photo, grinning with pride. "Thank ya! My baby is beautiful, right?" he said, turning his gaze to Arielle with a playful wink.

Arielle's heart skipped a beat at his words. She glanced at Chris, her eyes wide with surprise and a smile tugging at her lips. *Did he just call me his baby?* she thought to herself, feeling a rush of warmth.

The photographer chuckled, clearly pleased with their reaction. “You two have a great night,” he said, tipping his hat before turning to find his next subject.

As they continued walking towards their apartment, Arielle held the photograph gently in her hand. It felt like a small treasure, a tangible memory of a moment that was both spontaneous and special.

“That was unexpected,” Chris said, his voice light with amusement. “But I’m glad he took it.”

Arielle nodded, her smile warm. “Me too. It’s a beautiful picture.”

There was a comfortable silence between them as they approached their building, each lost in their thoughts. Arielle couldn't help but replay Chris’s words in her mind, feeling a joyful flutter. The term of endearment had slipped out so naturally, yet it felt significant, like a small promise wrapped in affection.

They reached the entrance of their apartment building, lingering for a moment outside. Chris squeezed her hand gently. “I really enjoyed tonight, Arielle. We should do this more often.”

“Definitely,” Arielle replied, her eyes meeting his. She felt a strong sense of belonging standing there with him, knowing their lives were slowly weaving together.

“Goodnight, Arielle.” Chris said, leaning in to give her a soft, lingering kiss on her cheek. It was a simple gesture, yet it spoke volumes.

“Goodnight, Chris.” Arielle responded, watching as he made his way inside.

As she climbed the stairs to her apartment, she carried the photograph carefully, glancing at it once more before placing it on her bedside table. It was a moment captured in time—unplanned and perfect in its own right. She knew it would be the first of many memories they would create together, each one telling their story in its unique way.