𝑺𝑬𝑬 𝒀𝑶𝑼 𝑨𝑮𝑨𝑰𝑵, javon walton

012

The next day arrived with a burst of energy in the household as Mae's father prepared for his grand birthday dinner. The air was filled with the smell of cooking, laughter, and the soft rustling of decorations being set up. Mae stood in front of her mirror, carefully slipping into a long, flowing black dress that hugged her figure just right, accentuating her elegance. The fabric was soft, almost silky, and it draped down her body in a way that made her feel both sophisticated and confident.

Anya, meanwhile, was getting ready beside her, adjusting her own white dress. It was simple but elegant, contrasting perfectly with Mae's darker choice.

"You look stunning," Anya said, stepping back to admire Mae.

Mae smiled, twirling a little in the mirror. "Thanks, babe. You look incredible too. That dress is so you."

Anya smirked, giving a playful spin of her own. "I know, right? It's perfect. Tonight's going to be fun."

As they finished up, there was a knock at the door, and Mae's father's voice called out. "Girls, we've got guests arriving soon!"

Mae took a deep breath and smiled. "Here we go."

The dining hall was beautifully set, with soft golden lights illuminating the room, casting a warm glow over the long dining table covered with delicate centerpieces and candles. Guests were already arriving, and Mae's father greeted everyone with a wide smile, his charisma filling the room.

Soon, the Waltons arrived. Javon entered, wearing a sharp suit that fit him perfectly, making him look effortlessly handsome. His parents, DJ and Jessica, followed closely behind, greeting Mae's father with kind smiles.

As Javon walked in, his eyes scanned the room until they landed on Mae. His gaze lingered for a moment, taking in how beautiful she looked in her sleek, black dress. The way the fabric moved with her, the way her hair framed her face—it left him momentarily speechless.

He approached her, his smile softening into something more genuine. "You are beautiful," he said quietly, his voice full of admiration.

Mae felt a flutter in her chest but let out a soft laugh, slightly embarrassed by the sincerity in his tone. "You look pretty good too, Javon," she replied with a grin, glancing up at him. Her voice was light, but there was a warmth behind it, and the connection between them felt just a little stronger in that moment.

Javon chuckled, his eyes twinkling as he stood next to her. "Thanks. But really, you look amazing. I'm lucky to be sitting next to you tonight."

Mae raised an eyebrow playfully. "Flirting, are we? You're not getting soft on me, Walton?"

He laughed, shaking his head. "I'm just being honest, Mae. Can't a guy compliment you without being accused of something?"

Mae smiled, turning to face him fully. "I guess I'll allow it... just this once."

Before they could continue, Mae's father called everyone to the table, announcing that dinner was about to be served. Javon offered Mae his arm, and together they walked to their seats, Mae's heart beating just a bit faster than usual.

The dinner went smoothly, filled with laughter, stories, and celebration. Mae's father was in high spirits, grateful to be surrounded by people he loved. Javon, seated beside Mae, felt a sense of ease as they shared quiet jokes and exchanged small glances throughout the evening.

Every now and then, he'd lean closer, making a quiet comment that would leave Mae smiling or laughing softly. And each time their eyes met, there was a shared, unspoken understanding—a growing connection that neither of them could quite put into words.