Finding the perfect reading spot was that eventually—
someone else decided it was perfect too.
Friday afternoon arrived with golden sunlight filtering through the branches of the old oak tree.
When lunch ended, Noah headed toward the familiar bench with his new book in hand.
As expected, Lily was already there.
She looked up and smiled.
“You made it.”
“I said I would.”
He sat beside her, opening the novel to the first chapter while she returned to her own book.
For a little while, the world seemed to slow down.
Students crossed the courtyard.
Leaves rustled overhead.
Somewhere in the distance, a whistle blew from the soccer field.
But at the bench, there was only the quiet rhythm of turning pages.
Eventually, Noah lowered his book.
“You were right.”
Lily looked over.
“Abou
