Cosmic Connections (Book 2 Of: Interstellar Passions)

As he gathered his courage, the sound of cheerful voices and laughter filled the night, imbuing the air with excitement and possibility. With friends by his side and stars above him, it was time for Theo to embrace the adventure that lay ahead.

"Tonight's going to be amazing," he thought to himself, a hopeful spark igniting within him. As the event unfolded, he would find a way to connect with Lily-to turn those distant constellations of his feelings into something real.
With a surge of courage, Theo closed the gap, leaning in as he pressed his lips against hers. The world around them dissolved into a blur, the laughter and chatter fading to a soft hum as he lost himself in the magic of the kiss. It felt like they were floating beneath the stars, cradled by the universe itself.
"What did you realize?" Theo asked, his heart thumping as he leaned closer.

"That I can't keep pretending I don't want to be more than friends," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I want to explore this with you, whatever it is. But that means risking everything."

Theo felt a sense of relief wash over him. "Me too. I've felt it for a long time, but I didn't know how to say it."
"Lily, I-" Theo began, but she cut him off, her voice rising with emotion.

"No, Theo. You listen," she interjected, clearly fighting to keep her composure. "I get that work is important. I really do. But it feels like you're avoiding me. I don't even remember the last time we had a real conversation."

A wave of guilt washed over Theo. He stepped away from the door, letting her enter fully as he ran a hand through his hair. "Lily, I'm so sorry. I've just gotten buried in this project, and it slipped away from me. I didn't mean for you to feel ignored-that was never my intention."
"Are you family?" the doctor inquired, looking between Theo and Lily.

"No, but we're friends. What happened?" Theo's voice cracked, a knot tightening in his throat.