I lean in, curious about what's got her so worked up.

"I found a job posting at the McWane Science Center," Elle continues. "It fits my experience and PhD education to a T, and the pay is commensurate with what I'm making now."

My heart leaps, but I try to keep my expression neutral. Inside, I'm elated at the possibility of Elle moving to Birmingham. But I know how much she loves her job in Florida, and I don't want to pressure her.

"That sounds like an amazing opportunity," I say carefully. "How do you feel about it?"

Elle bites her lip, considering. "I'm honestly torn. I love my current job, but being here with you these past weeks... it's made me realize how much I want to be closer to you."

I can't help the smile that spreads across my face. "Elle, I would love for you to live here if it's something you want. But I want you to be happy, too."

Taking a deep breath, I decide to be fully honest with her. "I have a confession to make. I've actually been looking at jobs in Gainesville, too."

Elle's eyes widen in surprise. "You have?"

I nod, reaching across the table to take her hand. "I've been thinking about how we could make this work long-term. I didn't want to say anything until I had something concrete, but... I want us to be together, Elle. Whether that's here or in Florida."

I can see the wheels turning in Elle's mind as she processes my confession. She takes a deep breath, her eyes meeting mine.

"Shep, I don't want us to get ahead of ourselves," she says carefully. "But if the idea of me applying for this job doesn't freak you out..."

"It doesn't," I interject quickly, my heart racing at the possibility.

Elle's face breaks into a smile. "Then I think I'll make some calls and look into it. I have known the recruiter since I got my current job. I feel like I could get the inside scoop from her."

I nod encouragingly, squeezing her hand. "That's a great idea. It doesn't hurt to explore your options."

"Yeah," Elle agrees, her excitement growing. "I'll need to work on my resume, though. It's been a while since I've updated it."

"I'd be happy to help," I offer without hesitation. "I may not be a marine biologist, but I know a thing or two about putting together a compelling CV."

Elle laughs, the sound warming my heart. "I bet you do, Dr. Duncan. I might just take you up on that offer."

As we discuss the potential of Elle applying for the job, I can't help but feel a surge of hope. The idea of her being here in Birmingham, of us building a life together, suddenly feels more tangible than ever before. But I remind myself to temper my excitement. We still have a lot to figure out, and I don't want to pressure Elle into anything she's not ready for.

I can barely contain my excitement as Elle talks about applying for the job at McWane Science Center. My heart races, and I have to consciously remind myself to keep my expression neutral. I've never felt this way before— encouraging a woman to uproot her life and move closer to me. With anyone else, I'd be running for the hills. But Elle... she's different.

"That sounds like a great plan," I say, trying to keep my voice steady. "I think you'd be an incredible asset to their team."

As Elle starts brainstorming ideas for her resume, I find myself imagining a future where we're in the same city—no long-distance calls or counting down the days until our next visit. We could have dinner together after work, spend lazy Sundays with Opie, and build a real life together.

I take a sip of water, hoping to cool the flush I can feel creeping up my neck. "You know," I start, careful not to let my enthusiasm overwhelm her, "Birmingham has a lot to offer. The science community here is growing and with your expertise..."

Elle nods, her eyes bright with possibility. "I've been impressed with what I've seen so far. And the idea of being closer to you and Opie..." She trails off, a soft smile playing on her lips.

I reach across the table, taking her hand in mine. The touch grounds me, reminding me this isn't just a daydream. It's a real possibility.

"Whatever you decide," I say, meaning every word, "I'm here to support you. But I won't lie— the thought of having you here in Birmingham... it's more than I ever dared to hope for."

I pull into my driveway, a smile plastered on my face. The thought of spending the afternoon with Elle and Opie by the pool feels like a dream come true. I see Elle pulling up behind me as I step out of my car.

"Beat you here," I call out, grinning.

Elle laughs as she gets out of her car. "Well, you did have the home-field advantage."

We walk into the house together, and I can hear Opie's excited chatter from the living room. Cason greets us, and I thank her for watching him. As she leaves, Opie comes bounding up to us.

"Daddy! Elle! Are we going swimming?"