Hot Summer Nights

42

Chapter Forty-Two

Landon

Everything is ready for tonight. I roped Levi and the others into helping me with my grand gesture for Leah. Tonight, I'll take her out for a boat ride, complete with a romantic picnic under the stars, and tell her how I feel about her.

Once the words are off my chest, I'm hopeful that she'll tell me she feels the same. If the last few days have been any indication, my gut is right on the money with that prediction. And once she tells me her feelings, I'll signal back to the beach for the guys to launch the final step of my plan- fireworks.

J helped me clear it with the county so we don't get in trouble for shooting off fireworks in the off-season. Having the cops roll up during the show would put a damper on things. Now, that's the last thing we need to worry about.

Thank you, Jason.

Tonight's going to be amazing.

An evening cruise with my girl. Us finally admitting how we feel. Our favorite food and drinks. All culminating into a spectacular finale under fireworks.

It's fitting really. Leah makes my heart light up like fireworks under a dark sky. So, why not give her a show of her own? It's the brightest idea I've had in a while and I think it will leave a lasting impression even if she isn't quite ready to say the words back to me. This way, at least she'll know how I feel. She'll know I'm in this for the long haul.

She owns my heart. I think it's long overdue that I tell her.

My palms are sweaty and my heart is racing as Leah and I step onto the deck. She looks gorgeous tonight in her summer dress with her hair waving in the breeze. Just looking at her takes my breath away.

She smiles at me, taking one of my hands.

Okay, dude, it's time. You can do this.

Inhaling deeply, I shove away my nerves. You've got this. I open my mouth, getting ready to suggest we go for a boat ride when Leah beats me to it.

Instead of a cruise on the lake, she wants to take a walk. In the opposite direction.

Shit.

I suggest we take the other path- the one leading closer to the dock- but she shakes her head, insisting we go this way. Letting her lead, I convince myself that everything is fine. This is just a detour and everything in the boat will still be there in a little while.

It helps calm my nerves. What's even better is the smile on Leah's face as we walk further from the house. She's stunning.

As I start to relax and enjoy this time with her, I see lights through the trees. I had no idea anything was out that way. Have those always been here?

My palms start to sweat again. Or maybe it's Leah's hands that are suddenly overheated...

The lights become brighter the closer we get and Leah is quiet- almost too quiet.

I look down at her and see a small wrinkle between her eyes. She looks nervous. But why?

Leah continues leading us toward the light, and once we reach a break in the path, I see it- the source of the light. A large tree overlooking the lake is decked out with fairy lights, illuminating the private area I never knew existed here.

We step closer and I can make out candles, blankets, a basket, and wine glasses. Hold on...

Did she-