ALEX/ZOE

5 MONTHS LATER..

Alex

"Happy birthday, sunshine!" I greet Zoe as I spot her lounging on the couch. "Oh my gosh, Alex, thank you! When did you get here?" she asks, surprised. "You're welcome. I just arrived. Go get ready; we're going out," I reply, handing her the dress.

"But what about my parents? They won't allow," she hesitates.

"It's okay, dear. I took care of it," her sister reassures her.

I turn to acknowledge her sister. "Good morning," I greet her with a smile.

"Good morning, Alex," she replies, returning the smile.

"I'll leave you two to it then. Bye," I say, preparing to depart.

"Bye," Zoe and her sister chorus, excitement evident in Zoe's eyes. As I gaze at Zoe, it feels like I'm seeing her for the first time in days. Despite being in her casual home attire, she radiates beauty. Pulling her into my arms, I whisper softly in her ear, "Happy birthday once again, sunshine."

"Thank you, Alex," she responds with a gentle smile. With a lingering glance, I feel a rush of warmth and affection as I give her a short kiss, my lips lingering on hers for just a moment longer than usual. It felt like time stood still in that brief embrace, our connection deepening with each passing second. Reluctantly, I released her and let her go to get ready, my heart warmed by the simple exchange, yet longing for more of her presence.

Zoe

I walk over to get dressed, the anticipation of the evening ahead making my heart race with excitement. As I pull out the dress Alex had given me, a surge of joy fills me, and I can't help but exclaim, "OMG, this is the prettiest dress I've ever seen!" The memory of the short, sweet kiss we shared downstairs floods my mind, sending shivers down my spine. It felt like a gentle caress, igniting a fire within me that I can still feel burning.

After washing up, I slip into the dress, and it fits me perfectly, like it was made just for me. The luxurious fabric envelops me like a second skin, and as I admire myself in the mirror, I'm left breathless. "It's like this dress was made for me," I whisper, tracing the elegant lines that accentuate my figure. Every detail seems to enhance my beauty, and I can't help but feel radiant.

Sitting down to apply my makeup, I steal a few moments to snap some selfies, knowing that Alex is waiting downstairs. But the anticipation only adds to the excitement, so I indulge myself a little longer. As I descend the stairs, there he is, lounging on the couch, looking effortlessly cool in his tight-fitted black shirt, pants, and shoes. It's a sleek, all-black ensemble that screams elegance. But what catches me off guard is the jewelry he's wearing – something I've never seen him do before. Despite that, it adds an intriguing touch to his look.

He's like a vision in black, and I can feel my heart skipping a beat as I take in his appearance. There's just something about him in this outfit that makes my knees feel like jelly. He's incredibly attractive, and I can't help but admire him from afar before gathering the courage to approach.

As I approach, he stands up and walks toward me. Every feature of his face is so defined, from his sharp cheekbones, endearing dimples, captivating hazel eyes, curly black locks, and petite lips, rendering his appearance utterly captivating. It's like he's stepped out of a dream, and I can't believe that he's here for me.

 When he takes hold of my waist, I feel a rush of warmth spreading through me, and as he leans in to kiss me, my knees grow weak. His lips meet mine in a tender embrace, sending sparks flying and causing my heart to race even faster.

The kiss feels like a promise of everything to come, a reassurance of his love and devotion. As he murmurs, "You look absolutely gorgeous, Sunshine," he murmur as he kisses me. I can't help but melt into his embrace, feeling cherished and adored. This is where I belong, in his arms, surrounded by his love. And as he holds me close, I know that tonight will be nothing short of magical.

Alex

As Zoe descends the stairs, my breath catches in my throat at the sight of her. She's breathtaking in the dress I gave her, as if it was tailor-made for her. I rise to my feet, unable to resist the urge to show my appreciation. 

Approaching her, I gently take hold of her waist, feeling the soft fabric of her dress under my fingertips. Pulling her into my embrace, I plant a tender kiss on her lips, savoring the warmth and sweetness of the moment. It's a kiss filled with affection and admiration, a silent expression of how much she means to me.

"You look absolutely gorgeous, sunshine," I murmur against her lips, my heart swelling with love as I gaze into her hazel, chocolatey eyes. Her warmth envelops me, and for a moment, it feels like time stands still as we share this intimate connection.

As she meets my gaze, a soft smile graces her lips, and I find myself getting lost in the depths of her beauty. It's a moment I want to freeze in time, to cherish forever.

"Shall we?" I ask, offering her my hand, eager to continue our adventure together.

"Yes, we shall. But can you please tell me where we're going? I'm dying of curiosity," she teases.

"You'll find out when we get there," I reply cryptically, a mischievous grin dancing on my lips as we step out the door and head to the car, which I had booked beforehand. I open the door for her, and she slides in gracefully before I join her.

Once we're in the car and on our way, I can't help but steal glances at Zoe, her presence filling me with joy and anticipation.

"Yes, we shall. But can you please tell me where we're going? I'm dying of curiosity," she teases.

"You'll find out when we get there," I reply cryptically, a mischievous grin dancing on my lips as we step out the door and head to the car, which I had booked beforehand. I open the door for her, and she slides in gracefully before I join her.

"So, how was your day, sunshine?" I inquire as we set off.

"There's no difference to it than yesterday, but I AM excited for wherever you're taking me to," she replies with a hint of curiosity.

"Well, too bad, looks like you'll have to wait. By the way, here," I say, handing her a box.

"Now, what's this, Alex? I can't accept this; you already gifted me a dress, and now this too?" she protests.

"Just open it," I insist with a smile.

She takes the box and opens it, revealing a necklace with my name on it. "Alex, seriously? Why did you give me a necklace with your name on it?" she questions, a mixture of surprise and amusement in her voice.

"To let the whole world know you're taken," I reply, flashing her a grin. I then take out the silver necklace from around my own neck and show it to her. "No, you didn't. You got a necklace with my name on it? And you, ALEX, are wearing a necklace?" she exclaims, utterly astonished.

"Why can't men wear necklaces, sunshine?" I tease.

"Oh, yes, they can, but Alex never wore jewelry," she remarks.

"People change, sunshine," I say with a chuckle,

"Well, it's cute, though. Can you help me put this on?" she asks, handing me the necklace.

I tease her playfully, explaining my intention behind the gift, and her laughter fills the car, making my heart soar. And when she asks for help putting it on, it's a moment of quiet intimacy that I treasure, feeling the connection between us deepening with each passing second.

As I carefully fasten the necklace around her neck, I'm overwhelmed by a rush of emotions. Her touch, her scent, her presence beside me—all of it fills me with an indescribable sense of contentment and love.

When she plants a kiss on my cheek and rests her head on my shoulder, I feel a sense of peace wash over me. It's moments like these that remind me how lucky I am to have her by my side, and I silently vow to cherish every moment we share together.

Zoe

The anticipation bubbled within me as Alex led me inside, his hand finding mine naturally. "You ready?" he asked, his excitement palpable. "Yes!" I exclaimed, practically bouncing with anticipation.

With gentle reassurance, he covered my eyes with a cloth, his touch calming as he guided me forward. Suddenly, we stopped. "Ready?" he asked, and I nodded eagerly. With a flourish, he removed the blindfold, revealing a scene straight out of a dream. "Surprise!" my friends yelled, and my heart swelled with joy.

"Happy birthday Zoe!!" Ava exclaimed as she headed towards me, handing me a gift. "Thank you, Ava. You didn't have to get me anything," I said gratefully, touched by her gesture. "It's alright, I don't mind. Just don't forget mine this year," she teased. "Well, it depends on how you treat me," I retorted, earning myself a laugh.

Amidst the well wishes and birthday greetings, I turned to Alex, who had stood by my side the whole time. "Thank you, Alex, really," I murmured, hugging him tightly. "I just wanted to say thank you for everything, throughout my whole life before and after the incident. I'm really grateful to have a boyfriend like you."

His smile warmed my heart, his eyes reflecting his love and devotion. "There's no need to say thank you in this relationship, sunshine. You're my first priority in everything," he reassured me.

I couldn't resist teasing him. "Then should I consider myself lucky?" I quipped, earning a chuckle from him. "Whatever you say, sunshine," he replied with a grin.

With that playful banter, I planted a kiss on his cheek before taking his hand, feeling complete and utterly content as we made our way to cut the cake together.

As we approached the cake, Alex leaned in closer, whispering in my ear, "You deserve the world, Zoe. I'm just grateful to be a part of it." His words sent shivers down my spine, filling me with warmth and love.

With a smile, I squeezed his hand tighter. "And you're my world, Alex."

He returned the smile, his gaze unwavering. "Let's make this birthday unforgettable, shall we?"

And with that, we dove into the festivities, each moment etching itself into my heart as a cherished memory. With Alex by my side, I knew that every moment would be filled with love, laughter, and endless joy.

Alex

As the party unfolded, I watched Zoe's face light up with joy at the sight of her friends gathered around her. Her happiness was infectious, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride that I was able to contribute to it.

After Zoe's heartfelt thanks, I found myself catching up with Yash, one of my closest friends. As we exchanged pleasantries, I couldn't shake off the thought that had been weighing on my mind.

"So when are you going to ask Leah out?" I inquired, trying to broach the subject delicately.

Yash hesitated, his expression betraying his inner turmoil. "I don't know, Alex. I'm scared, honestly."

His vulnerability tugged at my heartstrings. "How about we talk about this tonight at my house?" I suggested, hoping to offer him some support.

"Okay, sure," he replied, a hint of relief in his voice.

Later, as we sat together, I found myself opening up to Yash about Zoe and the depth of my feelings for her. His attentive listening ear was a comfort, and his words of encouragement bolstered my spirits.

"You're lucky to have found someone like Zoe," Yash remarked, his voice filled with sincerity.

A smile tugged at the corners of my lips. "I think I've won the lottery," I confessed, a swell of emotion rising within me. "Having Zoe in my life feels complete."

Yash nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting understanding. "It's rare to find such a deep connection. Hold onto it, Alex."

In that moment, surrounded by friends and filled with gratitude for Zoe's presence in my life, I couldn't help but feel immensely blessed. And as I glanced over at Zoe, her laughter filling the room, I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be.

Zoe

As the night progresses, I decide it's time to head home. Walking up to the others, who are huddled up and engrossed in conversation, I interrupt gently, "Hey guys, how do you like the party so far?"

"It's amazing, Zoe. You're really lucky to have a guy like Alex," Ava remarks with a warm smile.

"Heck yeah, I'd die to have a guy like Alex," Leah chimes in, echoing Ava's sentiment.

"Yeah, I know, right?" I reply, feeling a surge of gratitude for Alex and his efforts. Alex soon also joins our conversation.

As Yash joins us, offering his birthday wishes, I smile appreciatively. "Hey, Alex, nice party man. Thanks for inviting me, and happy birthday once again, Zoe," Yash says warmly.

"No problem, man. Anytime," Alex replies graciously. "Thanks, Yash," I add with a smile.

"Anyways, I'll be heading out now. Steve's waiting for me," Yash announces. "Oh, okay then. See you," I reply, waving him off.

"Hey, Yash, let's meet at my place at 10 tonight? Let the others know," Alex suggests.

"Sure, I'll inform them," Yash agrees before bidding us farewell. "Alright then, see you guys. Bye, Zoe. Bye, Alex. Bye, Ava," he says as he walks backward, gesturing a goodbye.

"Why didn't he speak to you?" I inquire, turning to Leah.

"I don't know, Zoe. The last time we spoke, he inquired about Xavier getting my number and asking me out," Leah explains.

"He always does this. You guys should talk it out," I suggest to Leah.

"Yeah, I should," Leah agrees. "Anyways, I'm heading out now. Get home safely," she says before bidding us goodbye.

Turning to Alex, I ask, "Can I come over?"

"Huh, what?" he responds, startled and confused.

"I said, can I come over? I need to talk to Yash about Leah," I clarify.

"Oh, yeah, sure. But your parents?" Alex asks concernedly.

"I'll just ask my sister to cover up for me," I assure him.

"Okay then, let's head out," he agrees. I take his hand, and we head outside.

After a short wait, the cab arrives, and we get inside. I rest my head on Alex's shoulder, feeling comforted by his presence. "Alex, be honest with me," I begin.

"Yes, sunshine? Go on," he encourages me.

"Does Yash like Leah?" I ask, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

He seems hesitant at first but then answers, "Yeah, he does. For almost more than four years, I think."

"What? He does? And for three years?" I exclaim, shocked by the revelation.

He nods, confirming my suspicions. "You need to tell me more about this," I insist, feeling a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"Alright, so..." he starts, recounting everything as we drive to his house. By the time we arrive, I'm still in shock, processing the newfound information.

Entering the house, I greet Alex's mom before heading to his room. "Alex, you need to give me clothes; this dress is too tight," I tell him.

"Sure, sunshine, go ahead and get whatever you want from my closet," he replies.

I browse through his closet, grabbing a hoodie and sweatpants before heading to the washroom. After a refreshing shower, I change into the comfy clothes and step out. As I walk out, I notice Yash and Alex deep in conversation.

"Hey, Yash, when did you get here?" I inquire.

"Hey, Zoe. I arrived 15 minutes ago," he replies.

"Oh, okay. So, what were you guys talking about?" I ask, curious.

"Oh, nothing, just the normal stuff, you know," Alex responds casually.

"Okay, I guess. Anyways, Yash, you know you should tell Leah about you liking her, right?" I suggest. He didn't seem surprised about me knowing this. I assume Alex might have told him before hand

"Yeah, I know, but I'm too scared it will ruin our friendship, you know," he confesses, and we talk as the night progresses.

"Hey, I have to head home now. See you guys," Yash says, glancing at the clock.

"Okay then, see you, Yash. Bye," I bid him farewell as I see Alex showing Yash the way out.

Until Alex returns, I get comfortable in his bed. Finally, he comes back and joins me on the bed. "Do you think he'll tell her?" I ask as he settles in beside me.

He puts his hand under my head, pulling me into his chest and cuddling with me. "Yeah, probably. Hopefully soon," he responds. I nod in agreement.

"Anyways, sunshine, get some sleep; you've had quite the day today," he advises.

"Yeah, I'm so tired. It was quite a hectic day, but it was fun. Thank you once again, Alex," I express my gratitude, kissing him on the cheek.

"No worries, sunshine. Anytime for you," he says, lifting my chin up and kissing me. It feels like the best kiss ever; his lips feel so smooth and soft. I wish it could last forever, but sadly, he pulls away.

Our breaths mingled, warm and sweet, as if the universe conspired to bring our lips together. Alex's touch was gentle yet firm, his thumb tracing the curve of my jaw. The world faded away, leaving only the two of us in this suspended moment.

His lips met mine, and it was like a crescendo of emotions. Softness yielded to urgency, and our mouths moved in perfect harmony. I tasted the remnants of laughter and gratitude on his lips, a heady mix that made me dizzy.

His kiss was a promise—a promise of stolen nights, whispered secrets, and tangled limbs. The stubble on his chin grazed my skin, adding a delicious edge to the sensation. I clung onto him, fingers threading through his hair, pulling him closer.

Outside, the night held its breath. Stars blinked, and time ceased to exist. Our kiss was a symphony of desire, a melody that resonated deep within their souls. When he finally pulled away, our foreheads touched, and we both gasped for air.

"Sunshine," he murmured, his voice rough, " you know, you're my favorite kind of chaos."

And in that stolen moment, I realize just how deeply I love him, and how grateful I am to have him by my side, now and always.

"Good night, sunshine," he says softly.

"Good night," I reply, snuggling into his chest with his arms around me, feeling content and loved.

As I drift off to sleep, wrapped in Alex's comforting embrace, I feel a sense of warmth and security wash over me. Despite the uncertainties of the day, his presence brings me solace, and I know that whatever challenges may come our way, we'll face them together. With a peaceful smile on my lips, I let myself succumb to the gentle embrace of slumber, grateful for the love and companionship that fills my heart.