9 parts Ongoing MatureThe soft glow of the city lights wraps around us, but all I can focus on is Stefan. His eyes lock onto mine with a tenderness that makes it hard to breathe. He steps closer, his hand brushing a strand of hair from my face, his touch gentle and warm.
"Ariana," he murmurs, his voice a soft whisper in the quiet night. "I'm in love with you. Not the version you show the world-the real you. The one you try so hard to hide. And I'd choose you, every time."
His words hit me like a wave, pulling me under, but I don't want to fight it. I feel my heart beat faster, louder, as he takes another step toward me, so close I can feel the warmth of his breath against my skin.
"You don't have to fight me, or push me away," he continues, his thumb gently grazing my cheek. "I'm not afraid of your past, your secrets, or anything else. I just want you. All of you."
I feel my defenses crumbling, my voice barely a whisper. "Stefan..."
He leans in, his lips brushing against mine with a tenderness that makes everything else fade away. It's a kiss like no other-slow, sweet, and full of promises I'm too afraid to hear. His hands cradle my face, and in that moment, everything else disappears.
When he pulls back, his forehead rests against mine, and I can hear the words that he didn't have to say. "I'll take care of you, Ariana. I promise."
This story is still being highly edited.
