WHEN THEY FALL IN LOVE

Chapter:8

ANNABETH:

As the team was busy producing the dress and makeup for the photoshoot, I grabbed a simple tank top and my favorite blue-washed jeans, feeling comfortable yet stylish. I texted Lucas to let him know I was ready, and moments later, he arrived, looking effortlessly handsome in a white tucked-in shirt and black jeans."Hey, sweetheart," he greeted me with that charming smile that always made my heart race."Hey, babe," I replied, matching his energy as I climbed into the car. He opened the door for me, and as I settled in, I could feel the tension build when he leaned in to help me with my seatbelt. His fingers brushed against my skin, sending a rush of warmth through me.As we started driving, I turned to him with a teasing smile. "So, what's the deal with that fancy shirt? Trying to impress someone?"He chuckled, glancing at me sideways. "Only if that someone is you. I mean, you're the one looking all cute today.""Flattery will get you everywhere," I shot back, raising an eyebrow playfully."Good to know," he replied, grinning. "So, if I wear a tux next time, does that mean I get to take you out for a fancy dinner?""Only if you promise to keep your tuxedo on the entire time," I laughed, enjoying the flirty banter.We reached at the venue, after my photoshoot. We thought of eating out.We arrived at the restaurant, and I could see him distractedly working on his laptop, trying to finish some homework. "Ivy League uni sucks," he muttered, shaking his head.After I finished up in the restroom, I found him still caught up in his work. I nudged his shoulder playfully. "Hey, you know we're here to eat, right?"He looked up, a sheepish grin on his face. "Yeah, I got a little carried away. So, what do you want to order?"As we settled in and looked over the menu, I casually asked, "How did you know I like Italian food?"He acted shocked, raising his hands defensively. "What? It's just a coincidence! I mean, who doesn't like pasta and pizza?"I rolled my eyes playfully. "Yeah, right. You totally planned this.""Okay, maybe I have a little insider knowledge," he admitted, laughing. "But can you blame me? I wanted to impress my girl." "i would appreciate it if you stop looking into it. i hate when people invade my privacy"We ordered our food, the lighthearted conversation flowing easily between us. I could feel the connection deepening, and I knew today was just the beginning of a great adventure together.

LUCAS:

After we finished eating, we climbed back into the car, the atmosphere buzzing with energy. I glanced over at her, smirking. "So, are you going to admit that I have impeccable taste in restaurants?"She laughed, playfully rolling her eyes. "Okay, you might be right this time. But don't let it get to your head! You know how much I like Italian food; I'll never hear the end of this!""Oh, it's already too late for that," I teased, leaning in closer. "Just wait until I take you somewhere even fancier next time. You'll be blown away.""Is that a challenge?" she shot back, raising an eyebrow with a mischievous glint in her eye."Always," I replied, my heart racing at the playful banter. "Just remember, I'm the one with the insider knowledge now. You might think you know Italian, but I have a few hidden gems up my sleeve."She leaned back in her seat, pretending to ponder. "Alright, then. I'll take your word for it... for now. But if you don't deliver, I might have to reconsider this whole 'dating you' thing.""Now that's just cruel!" I laughed, feigning offense. "I promise, no more mediocre meals. I'm all in for the five-star experiences from now on."As we pulled up to her place, I felt a slight heaviness in my chest. "Well, this is it for now," I said softly, wanting to linger just a moment longer."Yeah, I guess so," she replied, her eyes sparkling in the soft light. I leaned in, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. "Bye, sweetheart. Text me later?""Definitely," she said, her smile lingering in my mind as I watched her walk inside. The thought of her feeling disappointed in me haunted me as I drove home.When I arrived at my mom's house, I fell into her arms, tears spilling down my cheeks. "I don't know what to do, Mom," I confessed, my voice shaking. My mom was the only one, aside from my dad, who truly understood what I had done and how I felt about Annabeth."Sweetheart, you have to be honest with her," she said softly, brushing my hair back. "She deserves to know everything. But remember, it's also important to give her space if she needs it.""I know," I replied, wiping my eyes. "It's just hard. I care about her so much."We talked late into the night, my mom offering comfort and wisdom. "You know, Lucas, it's great that you have feelings for her, but you also need to understand her perspective. She values her privacy, and if she finds out you stalked her—""I know!" I interrupted, frustration creeping in. "That's what terrifies me! What if she hates me for it?""Then you'll have to show her how much you've changed. You can't change the past, but you can build a better future together," she said gently.I nodded, trying to absorb her advice. "Thanks, Mom. I'll think about what you said."Later, my phone buzzed with a FaceTime call. It was Annabeth. I answered quickly, unable to hide my smile when I saw her face."Hey, you!" she greeted, her eyes sparkling even through the screen. "I didn't think I'd get to see you tonight.""Surprise! I missed your face," I replied, feeling warmth spread through me. "How was your night?""It was good, just caught up on some work and thought I'd check in with you. How about you? Still crying into your pillow?" she teased, a playful glint in her eyes."Only a little," I said, pretending to sulk. "I mean, it's hard not to when I'm away from you. But seriously, I went to my mom's and got some advice. She's great at helping me sort things out.""Oh? What kind of advice?" she asked, leaning closer, curiosity shining in her eyes."She basically said I need to be honest with you. That you deserve to know everything," I admitted, my heart pounding. "But honestly, I'm scared. What if you're upset with me?""Lucas, I appreciate your honesty," she replied, her tone softening. "But you can't let fear hold you back. Just be real with me. I promise I won't bite... unless you ask nicely," she added, a flirtatious smile spreading across her face.I chuckled, feeling my tension ease. "Oh, so you're saying there's a chance I could get bitten? I'll have to keep that in mind.""Absolutely! But only if you keep being sweet to me," she said, winking. "Seriously, though, you know I value trust, right?""Yeah, I get that. I want you to know that I really care about you, and I don't want to lose that," I replied, feeling more vulnerable."Then just be honest with me, okay? I promise to listen," she said, her expression sincere. "I will," I assured her, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. "You mean a lot to me, Annabeth. I want to make this work.""Good. Because I want to see where this goes," she said, her eyes shining. "Now, enough of the serious talk. What are you wearing right now?""Just a T-shirt and sweatpants. Not exactly what you'd call date attire," I laughed."Eh, I think it suits you. But I can't wait to see you in something fancier for our next outing," she said with a playful smirk."Oh, I'll be sure to impress you," I promised, a smile spreading across my face.As we chatted and flirted, I felt lighter, the weight of my fears slowly lifting. I knew I had to confront the truth soon, but for now, I was just happy to be with her, even if it was through a screen.