As they walked back toward the car after their romantic night, the stars above twinkling brightly, Lucas reached over and gently intertwined his fingers with Bella’s. The gesture was so natural, so effortless, that it caught Bella by surprise for a moment. But then, as her hand settled comfortably in his, it felt like the perfect puzzle piece fitting into place.
Bella glanced up at Lucas, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. She tightened her hold on his hand, offering him a reassuring squeeze. "This was the best night I’ve had in a long while," she said softly, her voice full of sincerity.
Lucas looked down at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and affection. "I’m glad to hear that," he replied, his thumb gently brushing over her knuckles. "It’s been the same for me. I wasn’t sure what to expect tonight, but… I’m glad it turned out this way."
They continued walking in silence for a few moments, the connection between them deepening with every step. There was no need for words; the quiet night, their intertwined hands, and the soft glow of the streetlights were enough to say what they both felt.
As they reached the car, Lucas opened the door for Bella, his hand lingering on hers for just a second longer before letting go. Bella slid into the passenger seat, feeling a flutter of excitement mixed with a strange sense of peace. This night was special, more than she had anticipated, and she couldn’t help but wonder what would come next.
Lucas got in the driver’s seat and started the engine, but before pulling away, he glanced over at Bella once more, his expression soft and thoughtful. "I hope we can do this again," he said, a hint of vulnerability in his voice.
Bella smiled, her heart swelling. "I’d like that," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
As they drove off, Bella rested her head against the window, gazing out at the quiet streets. For the first time in a long while, she felt something new stirring inside her—something warm, something hopeful. Maybe, just maybe, this was the start of something neither of them expected.
When they arrived at Bella’s house, the night air still carrying a soft chill, Lucas walked her to the door, their hands still occasionally brushing against each other. As they reached her doorstep, he paused, turning toward her with a gentle smile. The night had been perfect, and he didn’t want to rush anything, but he also didn’t want to leave without a small gesture to close the evening.
He leaned in and placed a soft peck on her cheek, his touch light but meaningful. Bella felt a warmth spread across her skin where his lips had been, and she smiled up at him, her heart racing just a bit.
"Goodnight, Bella," Lucas said, his voice low and filled with sincerity.
"Goodnight, Lucas," Bella replied, feeling a little breathless from the moment.
As she stepped inside, she caught a glimpse of Elizabeth sprawled on the couch, eating pizza and watching a movie. Elizabeth looked over at her with a mischievous grin, clearly having noticed the tender exchange at the door.
"Well, well, well," Elizabeth teased, raising an eyebrow. "Look who’s glowing."
Bella rolled her eyes, but a smile crept across her face. "It was a nice night, that’s all."
Elizabeth laughed, grabbing another slice of pizza. "Uh-huh. Sure. You’re practically floating right now."
Bella kicked off her shoes, feeling the weight of the evening in the best way. She grabbed a slice of pizza and sat next to Elizabeth, sinking into the couch. The soft background noise of the movie filled the room, but Bella’s mind was still on Lucas, the gentle touch of his hand, the peck on her cheek, and the way she hadn’t felt this light in a long time.
YOU ARE READING
An Unforgiving Love
RomanceCaptain Lucas Morani has just returned home after five grueling years of military service in Iraq, his mind constantly occupied by thoughts of the woman he left behind. But when he arrives to find his girlfriend has moved on with his own brother, th...
