Page 212 of From Rivals to I Do

In the studio, my brush glides across the canvas, creating strokes of color that bring my imagination to life. But no matter how hard I try to focus; my thoughts keep wandering to Jackson. It's becoming harder to deny the growing feelings I have for him. I find myself daydreaming about the moments we've shared, the glances and the subtle touches, the way his eyes light up when he laughs, the way his voice resonates with strength and kindness.

Sometimes, I catch myself stealing glances at him when he's not looking, admiring the way his strong hands grip a cup of coffee or the way his eyes light up when he smiles. It's becoming harder to deny the growing feelings I have for him.

There's a certain intensity in his gaze, a depth that pulls me in. And every now and then when we're together, I catch him staring back at me, his eyes lingering a little longer than necessary. It's become a constant presence, this growing attraction I feel toward him. I try to brush it off as nothing, convincing myself that it's just a fleeting infatuation. But deep down, I know it's more than that.

I'm so lost in my daydream about Jackson that I don't notice Liam standing beside me until he clears his throat. I blink, snapping out of my daze and giving him a sheepish smile.

He chuckles, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Maya, are you with us today or lost in some magical world of your own?" he teases, a playful smirk on his face.

I chuckle, trying to brush off my distracted state. "Yes, I am here, I guess my mind is just wandering today."

He raises an eyebrow knowingly. "Mind wandering, huh? More like heart wandering if you ask me."

I blush, feeling a mix of embarrassment and excitement. Liam has picked up on my feelings for Jackson, but I try to shake off the distraction, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Oh, it's nothing, just lost in my thoughts."

Liam raises an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Come on, Maya. I've known you for years. I can tell when something's bothering you."

I sigh, feeling the weight of my unspoken emotions. "It's Jackson," I admit, my voice barely a whisper.

Liam's eyes widen in surprise. "You mean Jackson Reed, the firefighter you said saved you from the fire?"

I nod, unable to hide the smile that creeps onto my face. "Yes, him. I can't explain it, Liam. There's just something about him that draws me in. The more time we spend together, the stronger these feelings become."

Liam leans back in his chair, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, Maya, it sounds like you've fallen for him."

I shake my head, trying to dismiss his words. "No, it can't be. We started off with so much animosity, and now... I don't know what's happening."

Liam chuckles. "Love works in mysterious ways, Maya. Sometimes, the people we least expect end up capturing our hearts."

I resume painting, trying to focus on the canvas in front of me, but my mind keeps drifting back to Jackson. Images of his smile, his laughter, and the way his eyes light up when he's passionate about something fill my thoughts.

Days pass, and the tension between Jackson and me continues to grow. Our playful banter becomes infused with an undercurrent of something more, an electric charge that ignites whenever our bodies or fingers accidentally brush against each other. It sends shivers down my spine, and I can't help but wonder if he feels it too.

One afternoon, as I'm lost in a particularly intricate painting, I feel a presence behind me. I turn around, and there he is, Jackson, his eyes fixed on my work.

"That's beautiful, Maya," he says, his voice soft.

I smile, feeling a rush of warmth spreading through me. "Thank you, Jackson."

He takes a step closer, our bodies almost touching, and I can feel my heart pounding in my chest. "Maya, I have to admit something. These past few weeks, being with you has been... incredible. I never expected our relationship to change like this, but I'm glad it has."

"It's the same for me," I say, heat filling my cheeks.

"Hey, Maya," he says suddenly. "I was thinking, how about we spend a day at the beach?" There’s a warm smile playing on his lips.

The mere idea fills me with excitement, and I can't help but imagine the sun-kissed sand beneath my toes and the gentle caress of the ocean waves. "That sounds amazing, Jackson! I'd love to go," I respond eagerly, my voice brimming with anticipation.

But then a thought crosses my mind, and I furrow my brow in concern. "What about Henry?" I ask, worried about leaving his son behind.

Jackson's smile remains unwavering, and he reassures me, "Don't worry. Karen will be around that day to look after him. He'll be in good hands."

Relief washes over me, and I find myself smiling in return. It's clear that Jackson has thought this through, and I trust his judgment.

By the weekend, we arrive at the beach, and I can't help but be captivated by the picturesque scenery before me—the azure waters stretching out endlessly, the golden sand beneath my feet, and the gentle breeze playing with my hair.

I feel a surge of excitement. The sun is high in the sky, casting a golden glow upon the glistening sand and the sparkling waves. The rhythmic sound of the crashing waves fills the air, creating a soothing melody that washes away any lingering tension.

I steal glances at Jackson, my heart fluttering with anticipation. I can't help but notice how his muscles ripple as he takes off his shirt. He looks incredibly attractive, his toned physique showcased by the warm sunlight. His tanned skin glistens in the sun, and I find myself staring. He catches me and grins, and I blush, looking away.

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