(Jake)
As Amanda stepped closer, I could feel the energy shift into something more intimate.
As the sun slipped below the horizon, the twilight of the evening wrapped the world in a gentle embrace. Amanda and I slipped farther away from the gathering, purposefully seeking a quieter corner away from prying eyes. The stars twinkled overhead, illuminating our path as we found an old fallen log to sit upon.
“I can’t believe how much we pushed ourselves today,” Amanda said, breathless and exhilarated. Her earlier shyness was fading, replaced with a glowing confidence and warmth. “I’ve never felt so strong… or so welcomed.”
“I’m glad to hear that,” I responded, my voice low and steady. Each moment spent with her felt like a new puzzle piece fitting perfectly into place. “You have a tremendou
