As Emma and Ethan stepped out of the restaurant, the cool night breeze brushed against her skin.
Ethan’s hand held hers gently, his thumb absentmindedly tracing small circles on the back of her palm.
The dinner had been… unexpected. She hadn’t imagined Ethan would be so open, telling her about his family, his past, and how he had never been lucky in relationships.
There was something genuine about the way he spoke, something that made her feel warm inside.
As they reached his car, Ethan turned to her, his dark eyes searching hers. “Emma…”
She glanced up at him, waiting.
He sighed softly, then smiled.
“I meant what I said back there. I won’t rush you. I’ll wait for your answer, however long it takes.”
Emma felt a strange flutter in her chest.
She wasn’t sure what to say, so she
