Balancing Protective Love

His Place

It was the kind of evening that felt like the start of something special. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden hue over the city as Linda and Alex walked side by side through the quiet neighborhood park.

Linda felt a slight flutter in her stomach. She couldn't tell if it was because of the beauty of the sunset or the fact that she was spending time with Alex. He was everything she'd hoped for—kind, confident, and with a sense of humor that always managed to make her laugh, even when she was nervous.

As they walked along the path, Linda glanced up at Alex, her curiosity getting the better of her. "So, how often do you come here to watch the sunset?"

Alex smiled down at her. "Not often enough, apparently. This view is even better with company."

She laughed softly, the sound light and teasing. "Are you trying to be smooth right now?"

"Is it working?" he asked, his grin widening.

Linda playfully bumped her shoulder against his. "Maybe a little."

They continued walking until they reached a bench overlooking the lake, the water reflecting the colors of the setting sun. Alex gestured for her to sit, and they both settled in, the evening air cool but comfortable.

"You know," Linda began, breaking the comfortable silence, "this is really nice. I don't usually get to do things like this."

"Like what?" Alex asked, genuinely curious.

"Just... take it slow. Enjoy the moment. I'm always so busy with work and life. It's nice to just... be here, with you."

He nodded, understanding. "I get that. Life can be pretty hectic. That's why I try to make time for moments like these. They remind you what's important."

Linda smiled softly, her gaze drifting back to the sunset. "Yeah, it's easy to forget sometimes."

As the last of the sunlight disappeared, Alex turned to her. "Are you hungry? I was thinking we could head back to my place. I've got some snacks we could enjoy."

Her eyes lit up. "Snacks sound great. But... I have a bit of a sweet tooth," she admitted with a slight blush.

He chuckled. "I should've known. Well, I'm more of a healthy snack kind of guy, but we'll see what we can do."

A short while later, they arrived at Alex's apartment. It was cozy and neat, a reflection of his organized personality. Linda felt a little flutter of excitement—this was her first time at his place, and she was curious to see more of his world.

After a quick tour, they settled in the kitchen. "Alright, let's see what we've got," Alex said, opening a cupboard filled with neatly organized snacks.

Linda peered in and raised an eyebrow. "Carrot sticks, nuts, protein bars... Alex, do you have anything that's not... healthy?"

He laughed, shaking his head. "I told you, I'm a healthy snacker. But I can check the freezer. Maybe I've got something sweet hidden away."

Linda watched as he opened the freezer, hoping for a miracle. He pulled out a tub and smiled triumphantly. "How do you feel about Greek yogurt with honey?"

Linda raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile forming on her lips. "Really? This is what you've got? You're such a healthy nut, Alex."

He chuckled, placing the snacks on the counter. "What did you expect? I am a dentist, after all."

Linda's playful smile faltered for a moment, and she shifted slightly where she stood, feeling a small wave of tension wash over her.

She tried to brush it off, but Alex noticed the subtle change in her expression. His teasing grin softened as he turned to her, concern flickering in his eyes.

"Hey," he said gently, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "You okay?"

Linda forced a smile and nodded, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... not the biggest fan of dentists, you know?"

Alex's face softened with understanding, his hand lingering against her cheek for a moment longer. "I get it. But you don't have to worry about that with me, okay? I'm not here to lecture or scare you."

She nodded again, feeling a bit foolish for letting her nerves show. "I know, Alex. It's just... it's a thing for me, I guess."

He leaned in a little closer, his voice warm and reassuring. "You're safe with me, Linda. Always."

She took a deep breath and smiled, feeling the tension ease. "Thanks. I know that."

Alex gave her a small, reassuring squeeze on her shoulder before stepping back to the counter. He picked up a piece of fruit and offered it to her, his playful smile returning. "Now, let's see if I can convince you that healthy snacks aren't all bad."

Linda chuckled, the mood lightening again as she accepted the fruit. "Alright, Mr. Healthy Nut, show me what you've got."