Love isn't supposed to be this complicated- at least, that's what Manya thought before Sarth entered her life.
She's fiercely independent, and he's the infuriatingly charming guy who knows how to push her buttons.
Their connection? Intense, messy...
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We stepped into the ice cream parlor, the wind swirling behind us as the soft chime of the doorbell welcomed us. The place had this cozy, vintage vibe, with deep-colored walls and lamps that cast a warm, golden glow. It almost felt like we were stepping into a different world.
Mom led us to a table by the window, a small vase of fresh flowers swaying slightly in the breeze. The whole setup was so... intimate.
I hesitated at the entrance, nerves fluttering in my stomach. It wasn't just the setting—it was the fact that I was here with Sarth's mom. And, of course, Sarth himself, trailing behind us, looking like he couldn't care less, hands shoved in his pockets as usual.
"Isn't this place lovely?" Mom's voice snapped me out of my thoughts. She smiled back at me, clearly proud of her little find. "It's been our favorite for years."
"It's beautiful," I replied, forcing a smile as I slid into the booth across from her, my eyes quickly dropping to the menu.
Sarth sat beside me, close enough that I could feel the warmth of his body. His arm draped casually over the back of the booth, his gaze lazily sweeping the room. The tension between us was thick, even though neither of us said a word.
"Do you have a favorite flavor, Bacche?" Mom asked, her tone soft and welcoming. The way she said it felt... genuine, like she really cared.
"I'm not sure," I admitted, glancing up briefly. "I've never really thought about it."
"Well, today's the perfect day to find out." She winked. "Sarth always goes for chocolate fudge. Double scoop."
"Can't go wrong with the classics," Sarth chimed in, flashing a quick smirk in my direction. "You strike me as someone adventurous with flavors."
I met his gaze, that familiar challenge dancing in his eyes. "Maybe I am," I said, keeping my voice steady even though my heart wasn't quite on board with the calm act.
She chuckled softly. "How about we all try something new? I've heard the lavender honey ice cream is incredible."
Sarth raised an eyebrow but didn't argue. As she placed the orders, I felt the tension ease a little. We started chatting while waiting for the ice cream. Mom asked about my hobbies, my life before this whirlwind of whatever it was. Her questions were gentle, curious, and slowly, I felt my guard lowering.
Sarth, though, stayed mostly quiet, throwing in sarcastic comments here and there, just enough to keep things from getting too serious. But his eyes—his eyes kept finding mine, like he was studying me. Trying to read something between the lines.
When the ice cream arrived, the sweet, floral scent filled the air. I couldn't help but smile at the sight of the lavender honey swirl in front of me.
