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February 14, 2023 (Valentine's)

Los Angeles, CA

Tori's POV


Valentine's Day. A holiday I didn't care about until getting with Kai. And this years felt extra special because we were spending it in LA. Everything felt perfect; like we were exactly where we were supposed to be, and I couldn't have been happier.

We woke up in the hotel room-luxurious, just like everything else Kai had planned for us. He was already up and getting ready for a few work meetings he had that morning. I didn't mind; I knew he had to handle business, but I was just grateful that we had the rest of the day to ourselves.

He wasn't gone long, and once he got back I was dressed and ready for the day. LA was beautiful and vibrant, on a whole different level from Atlanta.

We spent the afternoon exploring LA together. First, we grabbed lunch. We laughed over a little inside joke, and I couldn't help but think how nice it was that we could enjoy such simple moments together. Kai was always so focused, but he made sure I felt like I was the only thing that mattered when we were together.

Next, we hit the shops. I had a blast picking out a few new things for myself, but also for Kai, of course. He didn't ask for much, but I loved surprising him with little gifts I knew he'd appreciate. We took our time, strolling through the streets, popping into boutiques, enjoying each other's company.

Later, we went to the pier. The air was crisp, the waves crashing against the shore, and the sun was beginning to set. It was one of those moments that made you stop and appreciate the beauty of everything around you.

Kai and I found a quiet spot near the water, away from the crowd, and just sat there. I leaned against him, and we talked. About everything. About us.

"Are you happy, Toriana?" Kai asked after a long pause, his voice soft but serious.

I turned to him, seeing the concern in his eyes, the way he always checked in on me. "I really am. Everything feels perfect. But... I've been thinking."

He looked at me, waiting.

"I've been thinking about my place in all of this," I continued, my thoughts spilling out. "I know I'm not on social media anymore, and part of me feels like I should be. I want to get back out there, but at the same time, I don't want to rush it. I don't want to do something just because it's expected of me."

Kai turned to face me fully, taking my hands in his. "If you want to return to social media, then do it. But it's gotta be for you, Tor. Make sure you have a purpose. Make sure it's something you really want to do. You've got a platform that can reach so many people, but you need to know what you want to achieve with it first."

I nodded slowly, considering his words. "That's what I'm trying to figure out. I want to heal further, continue this journey I've been on. But I'm thinking about reaching out to my mom... I know it's a lot, and I don't want to overwhelm myself, but... I think I need that. I think I need to make peace with that chapter of my life."

Kai's gaze softened as he looked at me, squeezing my hands gently. "You know I'm gonna support whatever you decide to do. But take it slow, okay? Don't rush it, Tor. Don't overload yourself. You've been through a lot, and I want to make sure you're healing at your own pace, not because you feel like you have to do it all at once."

"I know," I said, feeling reassured by his words. "I'm fine. I've never been better."

He smiled, clearly relieved, but there was still a hint of protectiveness in his eyes.

We continued our walk along the pier, the sound of the waves lapping against the shore creating a calming background. We talked more about everything and nothing-our hopes, our future, how far we had come together. It felt good, just being with him, not having to say too much.

As we walked, we passed a small tattoo shop that caught my eye. I stopped and looked through the window, curious.

"You wanna get a tattoo?" Kai asked, a playful glint in his eyes.

I smirked. "Maybe."

Kai grinned, grabbing my hand and leading me inside. We talked to the artist, and after some consideration, I knew exactly what I wanted. It wasn't a huge tattoo-just his name on my wrist, simple and intimate. It made sense since he already had mine.

The process was quick, and soon enough, the tattoo was done. I could feel Kai's eyes on me, his excitement evident.

Kai laughed, his face lighting up. "Best Valentine's gift ever."

We left the shop hand in hand, it wasn't a ring or anything but part of me felt like I had just sealed something permanent with him.

The day had truly brought me nothing but peace as I was surrounded and flowing with love. What more could I ask for.

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