The Rude Awakening of Love

26 - Where Everything Changed

Emerson's POV

THURSDAY NIGHT

I stood in my room, clothes scattered everywhere, trying to decide what to pack for my trip back to Oklahoma.

The light from the window filtered in, casting a warm glow over everything. I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the nervous energy that had been building in me all week.

I glanced at my phone, scrolling through messages from my dad, who was already planning our holiday activities. A smile tugged at my lips; I couldn't wait to see him.

But then my thoughts drifted to Dakota. Just the other night, we had shared hot chocolate on the couch, and the way he looked at me had ignited something deeper between us. I replayed our conversation in my head, the way he had opened up about wanting to spend more time together.

As I folded a sweater, I heard a soft knock on my door. "Hey, you in there?" Dakota's voice floated through.

"Yeah, just packing!" I called back, my heart racing at the thought of him.

The door creaked open, and he peeked in, his expression warm but slightly curious. "Need help?"

I laughed lightly, shaking my head. "No, I'm just trying to figure out what I need for a couple weeks at home. It's harder than it seems!"

He stepped inside, leaning against the doorframe. "Want to take a break? We could grab some food or just hang out before you leave."

I hesitated for a moment. The idea of spending more time with him sounded perfect, but I also had to finish packing. "That sounds great, but I really need to get this done."

Dakota nodded, his expression understanding but tinged with disappointment. "Okay, but just so you know, I'm going to miss you."

My heart skipped a beat. "I'll miss you too! We should FaceTime while I'm gone."

He smiled, and I noticed a glimmer of something hopeful in his eyes. "Definitely. And maybe we can plan a fun day when you get back?"

"Absolutely!" I said, feeling a warmth spread through me.

After a few more minutes of packing, I finally closed my suitcase, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

"All done!" I declared, glancing at Dakota. "Let's go grab that food."

As we walked to a nearby café, the streets felt alive with the holiday spirit—decorations twinkling in the winter night. The conversation flowed easily, a mix of lighthearted teasing and deeper talks about our families and traditions.

When we reached the café, we ordered food and found a cozy corner to sit. As we ate, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter.

As we finished up, I felt the weight of the upcoming departure looming. "I can't believe I'm leaving tomorrow," I said, my voice slightly quieter.

Dakota looked at me seriously, his expression softening. "Are you excited?"

"Yeah, but it's hard to leave. Things have been so nice between us," I admitted, feeling a pang of reluctance.

He reached across the table, taking my hand in his. "Just remember, this isn't goodbye. We'll pick up right where we left off."

I nodded, feeling reassured by his words. "You're right. I just need to remind myself of that."

As we left the café, the night air was crisp, and I shivered slightly. Dakota noticed, instantly wrapping his arm around my shoulders, pulling me close. It felt safe and comforting, a gesture that made my heart flutter.