Page 20 of Unpredictable Flames

“Thanks,” I replied, a surge of determination fueling my steps as I left the shop.

As I got back into my car, next on the agenda was her favorite bakery. Lily had a sweet tooth, and I knew she would appreciate some delicious treats to accompany the flowers. I selected an assortment of pastries – cupcakes frosted with pastel colors, flaky croissants filled with chocolate, and delicate macarons in every flavor imaginable.

As I waited in line, I overheard a couple chatting behind me. “I don’t mean to be rude but, what's the occasion?” the man asked, nodding toward my purchase.

I grinned proudly. “Just surprising my girlfriend. It's her favorite bakery.”

The woman smiled warmly. “She's going to love that. It's the little things that count, you know?”

“Trust me man, she’s right.” The man winked.

I nodded and smiled in agreement, then I collected my goodies and headed for the checkout, excitement bubbling within me.

Then, I swung by the local bookstore, knowing Lily's love for literature. I scanned the shelves until I found the perfect addition to her collection—a beautifully illustrated edition of her favorite classic novel, complete with gold-edged pages and a silk bookmark.

At the cashier, I blushed slightly, thanked her, and returned to the car. As I drove away, I couldn't wait to see the look on her face when she saw what I had in store for her.

After picking up the last items for the surprise, I made my way to the small picnic store tucked away in the corner of the town. Inside, I found a delightful array of picnic packages filled with delicious food and refreshing drinks. I quickly selected the perfect package and made my purchase, eager to complete my preparations.

“Thank you for your purchase and enjoy your picnic!” the store clerk called out as I exited. I grinned in anticipation as I drove toward the park.

I arrived at the park and found a sunny spot beneath a spreading oak tree, spreading out the blanket with care and arranging the food and drinks in a beautiful display. Every detail mattered, from the neatly folded napkins to the variety of snacks laid out on the platters.

Just as I was putting the finishing touches on the spread, my phone buzzed with a text from Lily, wondering where I had disappeared to and if everything was okay. With a chuckle, I quickly replied, telling her to meet me at the park for a surprise.

A weird, nervous excitement danced in my chest as I waited for her arrival. Would she like it? Would it live up to her expectations? I pushed aside my doubts and focused on the joy of the moment, knowing that, in the end, it was the thought that counted.

Finally, I spotted her approaching, her smile lighting up the park as she took in the scene before her. “Jake, what's all this?” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Grinning from ear to ear, I took her hand and led her over to the blanket. “It's a surprise, just for you,” I explained. “I thought we could enjoy a picnic together.”

Her smile widened, and she leaned in to kiss my cheek softly. “You're the best,” she murmured, her voice filled with warmth. “I would have never thought you were capable of something so sweet.”

I chuckled, feeling a warmth spread through me at her words. “What can I say? I'm full of surprises,” I teased, pulling her down to sit beside me on the blanket.

As the hours passed, we laughed and talked, savoring each bite of food and each sip of drink. The afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the park, and we watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant hues, painting a breathtaking sunset.

Wrapped in each other's arms, Lily stirred, and I looked down and noticed the troubled expression on her face. “Lily, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing serious, except…” she paused, as if contemplating telling me.

“Hey. You can tell me anything. What is it?” I pressed, kissing her forehead.

She sighed. “Okay, but promise it won’t change anything between us?”

“I promise, Lily.”

“Alright then,” she began tentatively, her voice trembling slightly. “There's something I haven't told you about my family. Something I’m sure even Cole hasn’t told you.”

I looked at her with concern, urging her to continue. “Go on.”

“It’s just… my family. We struggle with mental illness.”

I nod, my expression softening, “You don't have to tell me if you're not ready, but I'm here for you, Lily. Always.”

Lily managed a small smile, “We’ve been through a lot, Jake. There have been times when it feels like we're drowning in fear and uncertainty. The weight of it all... it's overwhelming sometimes.”

I reached out and gently squeezed her hand, “I'm so sorry, Lily. You've been carrying this burden alone for so long. But you don't have to anymore. I'm here for you, every step of the way. You're not alone.”

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