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SEAN
She’s going to say yes. She’s going to be my girlfriend. She has to.
I know that this connection between us is real, and although I know I’ve fucked it up, I also know that it’s not something that either one of us can walk away from. And maybe being my girlfriend isn’t all that I want from Astrid, but it’ll be a start. And I’m grateful for that.
The excitement of my question lingers in the air as she trembles, her hands betraying the nerves beneath her quiet demeanor.
“Do you mean it?” she asks, her voice is fragile. “Do you really mean it?” Her lips quivering. Her question hangs between us, filled with both hope and hesitation. Fear and fondness in her expressions as she gazes up at me.
“Of course I mean it, Astrid,” I say, my definitive answer eases some of the tension in her shoulders. My words cutting through her uncertainty.
“Okay,” she whispers. She says it so quietly that I almost don’t hear it.
“Okay?” I press, needing reassurance of my own. I want her to want this as badly as I do, even if I don’t deserve it.
She nods her head, the tears spilling down her cheeks.
I pull her into my arms, afraid that she might slip away if I don’t hold her tightly enough. This is a pivotal moment— I can feel the significance. Astrid is my girlfriend. And she lives here. The pieces fit together and create the story on their own. I can see how her willingness to forgive me and try again will lead to something even greater. But this time I’m not afraid. And I’m determined to never let her go again.
“You’ll be my girlfriend?” I place a kiss on her head. I want to know without a doubt that she wants this too.
“Yes,” she laughs into my chest. “Obviously yes.”
I stroke her head, still unwilling to let her go.
“And you’ll live here, with me? This is your home.”
“I will live here,” she agrees.
I breath in deeply, filling myself with her.
“On one condition.”
I hold her back at arm’s length.
“I will tentatively accept, at least through the end of the school year. And then I reserve the right to reconsider.”
I want to push back, but I accept what she’s given me. It’s a miracle she’s forgiven me at all, I suppose.
“Okay.” I stroke her hair. “That’s a start.”
She’s accepted through the end of the year. That buys me time to rebuild what was shattered in my moments of panic. I need to win her over. Prove to her that everything I say is true and that I’ll never make that mistake again.
I can’t lose her twice. I refuse.
I have a plan—a night of romance crafted with care to win her back and initiate the slow process of rebuilding trust. I’ve sent Astrid down to the basement while I get everything prepared. I understand that one night won't erase the hurt, but it’s a start. And I’m determined. I'm willing to take it one day at a time until she feels safe with me again.
Candles flicker around the room, casting a warm glow over the table I’ve set up for our quiet dinner at home. I want to show her what our life can be like. What her home can feel like. Soft music plays in the background, creating an atmosphere of intimacy I didn’t think was possible for an impromptu date night. The table is set with delicate care, and the scent of her favorite flowers fills the air. I've ordered her favorite meal from her favorite restaurant, and for dessert, I’ve bought her favorite snacks. I even wore the shirt she likes, the one that she says makes my eyes sparkle. I’ve paid attention to every detail in order to make this night special.
With everything completed, I walk over to the basement door.
“Okay, I’m ready,” I call down to her.
As Astrid enters the room, her eyes widen at the sight before her.
“Madam,” I say as I take her hand, guiding her to the table, and pull out the chair for her. The vulnerability in her gaze is matched by a hint of curiosity. I speak from the heart, expressing my love and remorse, making promises that are both sincere and heartfelt.
This night won’t just be about grand gestures; I’ve been good at that. What I need to show to her is consistency. Stability. And tonight is going to prove to her that the subtle moments and our genuine connection is just as important to me as anything else we share together.
