Beneath the Surface

Blossoming Connections

Ava had forgotten how nice it felt to be wooed. Louis had a way of making her feel cherished in ways she hadn't experienced before. It was subtle, but the more time they spent together, the more she realized how much she'd missed this-genuine, thoughtful care. Not the manipulation or cruelty that had defined her past, but kindness that made her smile effortlessly.

They met at a charming café that morning, the sky soft with light clouds, the air crisp. Louis arrived with a bouquet of vibrant wildflowers in hand, his face breaking into a smile when he saw her.

"These are for you," he said, his voice as smooth as ever.

Ava blinked in surprise, her hand instinctively going to her mouth. "You didn't have to do that," she said softly, though the smile on her lips was genuine.

"I wanted to. You've had a rough go at things, Ava. You deserve something to brighten your day."

It wasn't just the flowers. It was the way Louis looked at her-like she was the only person in the room, like she mattered in a way she hadn't felt in years. She accepted the bouquet, her heart lighter than it had been in a long time. Together, they sat at the café, the conversation flowing effortlessly, both of them laughing and teasing one another.

Louis opened up more than he had in their previous meetings. He told her about growing up in a small town, how he'd always dreamed of making something of himself, the journey that led him to the city. He wasn't just good-looking-he had depth, ambition, and most importantly, a gentle heart. It wasn't forced; it was as if he genuinely enjoyed getting to know her, discovering the layers that made her, her.

"I've had a few relationships," Louis admitted, a small, self-deprecating smile tugging at his lips. "But nothing that ever really stuck, you know? I guess I've been waiting for the right person."

Ava nodded, understanding the sentiment all too well. She sipped her coffee, the warmth spreading through her as she watched him across the table. He wasn't like Matt at all. He wasn't like anyone she'd ever been with. Louis was patient, calm, and there was no rush. No hidden agenda. Just sincerity.

"I'm glad we're doing this," Ava said after a beat of silence, her voice soft but full of meaning.

"Me too," Louis replied, his eyes catching hers in a moment that felt more intimate than any kiss.

Meanwhile, Damien sat at the bar, staring into the amber liquid in his glass. He wasn't sure why he'd signed up for the dating app. Maybe it was because he didn't want to feel left out. Or maybe it was because watching Ava with Louis had stirred something in him, something unfamiliar. Jealousy wasn't a feeling he was used to. Not like this. Not over someone like Ava.

He had his own life, his own goals. He had always been focused, but lately, his thoughts kept circling back to her. To those moments they shared-intense, fiery, and complicated. But now, seeing her with Louis, he couldn't help but feel... displaced.

The woman sitting next to him was talking, but her words barely registered. She was someone he'd met on the app-a pretty girl with striking features and a sweet laugh. But his mind kept drifting back to Ava. What was it about her? Why did it feel like he was constantly trying to pull himself away, only to be drawn back in?

"Damien?" The girl's voice cut through his thoughts, and he blinked, realizing he hadn't heard a word she'd said. "You okay?"

"Yeah," Damien nodded, forcing a smile. "Sorry, I just... got lost in thought."

She smiled, touching his arm. "It's okay. First dates can be awkward."

He chuckled, though it felt hollow. This wasn't awkward. It was wrong. He wasn't supposed to be here, and yet, here he was, trying to fill a void that shouldn't even exist. Was he really jealous of Louis? Or was he just frustrated that Ava had walked away from their shared mission?

The night dragged on, and though the woman was kind and attractive, Damien's mind was somewhere else entirely. He left the date feeling more confused than ever.

Ava spent the following days feeling lighter, happier than she had in a long time. Louis had a way of making her feel special. He'd pick her up for dates, bring her flowers, and always have a new, interesting spot for them to explore. They shared meals, walks in the park, and long conversations under the stars. It felt... safe. Something she hadn't experienced in what felt like an eternity.

But despite how good things were going, Ava couldn't shake the sense that something was looming over her. There were nights when she'd wake up in a cold sweat, the memory of Matt's words echoing in her mind. You will never be free, because I will always be watching.

She hadn't told Louis about it, not wanting to drag him into the darkness that still clung to her. But that darkness never left her completely, not even when Louis was holding her hand.

One night, after a particularly sweet date, Ava walked home alone, replaying the evening in her mind. Her phone buzzed in her pocket. She smiled, expecting it to be Louis, but when she unlocked it, her heart dropped.

"I see you've found a new toy to play with. But you'll never really escape. He can't protect you."

The message sent a cold shiver down her spine. She looked around, her eyes scanning the empty street. No one was there. But the words lingered, taunting her. Matt was still out there, still watching her every move.

And worse, she had no idea when he would strike again.