The state I'm in COMPLETED

Realization

With Rose's blessing, Harry was free to stay with me for the next two weeks, and I couldn't have been happier. The weight of that stupid phone call from earlier completely lifted, replaced with the excitement of having him here, really here.

Before leaving, Rose had done everything to make him feel at home. She changed her bed sheets, left out fresh towels, and even made space for his things in her closet.

I appreciated it. Harry was my boyfriend now. She was making an effort, though I didn't miss the flicker of disappointment in his eyes when he realized he wouldn't be staying in my room.

It was too much, too soon, and according to Rose, everyone should have their own space in case—and I quote—"small storms come in."

I rolled my eyes at her words, but deep down, I knew she was right.

Rose leaned against her car, arms crossed, staring at me with a knowing look.

"Have fun, Valerie."

Then, more seriously, "I know Harry is a lot to handle, but he needs support with what's coming his way."

I sighed. She was right.

We only had a few weeks, maybe days, before his life completely changed—before he became a father, before his responsibilities weighed on him even more heavily.

I needed to stop worrying. I needed to enjoy this, to cherish these carefree moments before everything shifted.

I pressed the elevator button, my stomach doing tiny flips in anticipation.

Walking into the apartment, I heard the soft shuffling of movement in Rose's room. Peering in, I saw Harry organizing his things in the closet. He noticed me immediately, a slow, warm smile spreading across his face.

"Come here."

He opened his arms, and I fell into his embrace, resting my head against his chest, breathing him in. His scent was intoxicating—a mix of cologne and something purely Harry.

"Are you sure you want me here?" His voice was quieter now, tinged with uncertainty.

"Positive."

He exhaled, pulling back slightly so he could look at me.

"So, what now? What do you wanna do?"

"I don't have work today, so we don't have to worry about time," I grinned, relishing the freedom of a day spent entirely with him.

"That's great! Any ideas?"

"Let's get coffee and something to eat. I'm starving."

"I know just the place."

Harry directed me through unfamiliar streets, leading me to a small, hidden café I'd never noticed before.

The interior was warm and inviting—stone walls, wooden floors, a vintage '60s aesthetic. The jukebox played soft music, blending seamlessly with the low hum of conversation. A fireplace flickered in the corner, casting a golden glow across leather and floral-patterned armchairs.

It was perfect.

Harry led me toward a cosy spot near the fire, his hand resting lightly on my back.

"You've been here before?" I asked, surprised he knew all these incredible places in my town, when he lived over an hour away.

"Yeah. My dad used to bring us here when we were kids," he said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.