𝔅𝔬𝔯𝔫 𝔱𝔬 𝔡𝔦𝔢 - Rafe Cameron

④

...

Topper had invited Rafe to join the group at the bar, and Rafe had insisted on bringing Jazmine along. It had been a few days since she hadn't been feeling well, and it had been a long time since she and Rafe had spent time together, just the two of them.

She knew that the outing with Topper was really just an excuse for her and Rafe to have some time alone. But despite that, she couldn't resist. Rafe had a way of convincing her, and this time was no different. She had agreed, even if she wasn't entirely sure what to expect from the night.

She wasn't really the type to enjoy these kinds of social settings, especially when she didn't know anyone.

Rafe looked over at Jazmine, his voice softer now. "We're here."

"You know, we can always leave if you want," he added, a genuine concern in his eyes.

Jazmine felt a tug at her heart at his words. He always worried about her comfort, even when he was the one who seemed most uncomfortable.

Jazmine shook her head. "No, no, it's your friends. I don't want to stop you from seeing them."

It wasn't entirely the truth, but she didn't want to make him feel bad. She liked being with him, even if it was in a crowded, unfamiliar space.

Rafe shrugged nonchalantly, but there was a glint of sincerity in his eyes. "I don't really care. I'm not lying to you, you know. I just thought it would be a good opportunity to have a drink with you."

His words made Jazmine's chest tighten, her heart fluttering just a little. He wasn't just saying that; he meant it. And though she still felt a bit out of place, she found herself more than happy to stay for him.

As they stepped out of the car, Rafe's arm naturally draped over her shoulders, pulling her closer. He leaned down and kissed the top of her head, a sweet gesture that made her heart skip.

"You're amazing," Rafe murmured against her hair, his voice a little more than just a compliment.

Jazmine smiled, her breath catching. She was used to compliments, especially from him, and they always stirred something deep inside her. Whether she was getting ready, cooking, reading, or even sleeping, Rafe had a way of complimenting her effortlessly, as if it were second nature to him.

"You're handsome too," she replied softly, her voice quieter than usual.

Rafe grinned, his eyes scanning her up and down, clearly proud to have her by his side. "You're seriously stealing the show here. Look at you."

Her dress clung to her curves, a beautiful sage green that she paired with several gold jewelry pieces. Her hair was styled in a loose updo, with curls escaping in every direction, framing her face—casual yet elegant. Jazmine couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence when he said that.

When they entered the place, Jazmine couldn't help but feel a little out of place. She didn't recognize anyone, and the loud chatter and laughter felt overwhelming. But she wasn't here for the crowd; she was here with Rafe, and that made everything feel a little better.

"Go ahead, I'll stay outside for a bit," Jazmine said, her voice quiet.

Rafe paused, looking at her with concern. "Are you sure? Everything's fine ?"

"Perfectly fine," Jazmine replied with a small smile. "Just go in, I'll be right here."

As Rafe stepped inside, he paused and leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Jazmine's lips. She smiled up at him, her hand gently caressing his cheek before giving him a slight push, urging him to go.