Page 33 of Fight for You

The cozy restaurant exudes a inviting space, with flickering candlelight across the tables adorned with fresh flowers. The murmur of happy conversations and clinking glasses added to the enchanting atmosphere as Leo pulls out a chair for me with a charming smile. I settle into my seat. Leo catches my eye and raises his glass, his gaze sparkling. We toast to our victory, savoring the sweet taste of success that lingered in the air like a fine perfume.

After we get our good and delve into the delicious meal, we reminisce about the journey that has brought us to this moment. The mayor’s initial plans to demolish the bookstore seemed like a distant memory now, overshadowed by the overwhelming support we garnered from the community. Together, we rallied tirelessly, collecting signatures, staging protests, and even garnering some media attention to save it as a historical landmark. And our efforts paid off in ways we never could have imagined.

“I couldn’t have done this without you. It’s been an exhausting month, but it all paid off in the end.”

He laughs. “You were the driving force behind it all, your passion and dedication inspiring me every step of the way. I love you for that.”

The Mayor won’t be in Lawson Ridge much longer after disgracing the town the way she did. She isn’t born and raised here, and everyone can tell. No one will ever sell the town out for corporate greed. There is a difference between wanting to bring in more jobs and money for the town and building a great value strip mall.

Our plates are almost empty, but all I can think about is ripping his clothes off. The way he took charge today turned me on and he is all mine. “I’m done.”

He drops his work with a smirk. “Me too.” Leo raises his hand to get the waiter’s attention. “Check, please.”

We step outside and I take Leo’s hand. “Thank you for being my partner during this battle with the Mayor.”

His thumb caresses my cheek. The way he looks at me with such kindness and understanding makes my heart flutter.

“I love you, Leo Harrison.”

A gust of warm summer breeze caresses our faces as Leo steps closer, wrapping his strong arms around me. The heat radiates from his body as I lean into the embrace, cherishing the sense of safety and belonging that envelopes me.

“I love you too. More than words can say.”

“Promise me something,” Leo says, his warm brown eyes glistening with vulnerability as he searches my face for reassurance.

“Anything,” I reply, voice soft yet steady, the full weight of my commitment evident in her gaze.

“Promise me we'll face whatever life throws at us together,” he implores, his thumb gently caressing the back of my hand. “No matter how difficult it gets, we won't give up on each other.”

My heart swells with love and determination as I meet his earnest plea with a firm nod. “I promise. We'll be a team, facing every challenge side by side. I won't let anything come between us again.”

A smile spreads across Leo's face, reflecting the hope that shimmers within him. He leans forward, bridging the small distance between us, until our foreheads touched, sharing a moment of quiet understanding and affirmation.

“From now on, it's you and me against the world,” I whisper.

“Always,” Leo murmurs, sealing the pact with a tender kiss that sends shivers down my spine, intertwining our fates and forging a bond stronger than steel.

As we part, our eyes lock, conveying a depth of emotion that no words can capture. The world fades away, leaving only the two of us standing in the waning light, our souls bound by a love that would not be easily broken.

“Let's go home,” I suggest, voice filled with warmth and certainty.

“Home,” Leo echoes.

The word takes on a new meaning as I look at the man before me—my partner, my confidant, my everything. Together, we walk towards the park's exit, hand in hand, ready to face any obstacles that come our way as a united front.

As the final glimmers of sunlight vanished, an inescapable sense of euphoria and tranquility wash over me like a tidal wave. In Leo's embrace, I have discovered a safe haven—a sanctuary where I can finally let my guard down and have faith in our intertwined destiny. Despite the countless obstacles that lay ahead, I am certain that our bond is unbreakable, capable of weathering any storm as long as we face it united.

27

Leo

One year later…

As the sun begins to set, I make my way to the cozy café where I am set to meet my sister and best friend Miles. The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pastries and rich coffee, mingling with the sound of laughter and chatter from the locals enjoying their evening. The café itself is a picture of warmth and comfort, with its rustic wooden tables adorned with flickering candles and blooming flowers in delicate vases.

I spot Nina and Miles sitting at a corner table. Nina's eyes sparkle as she catches sight of me, while Miles greets me with his trademark grin. As I settle into the plush chair opposite them.

I sit down at the table with Nina and Miles. They both have knowing looks on their faces, probably sensing that something important is about to be shared.

---