Chapter 203

Evelyn

"You know, Evelyn... you're the only woman I've ever met who complains about shopping too much," Jacob chuckled, his deep voice resonating with amusement as we strolled down the pavement hand-in-hand.

I rolled my eyes, but the smile tugging at my lips betrayed me. After a marathon of "extra shopping" we'd stuffed the car's backseat with bags and parked nearby for a walk-because I insisted, of course.

As we wandered through the peaceful evening, enjoying the crisp air and easy conversation, my eyes suddenly caught sight of a street-side ice cream shop. I stopped mid-step, my gaze locking onto the neon-lit counter like a moth to a flame.

Jacob noticed immediately. "You want ice cream?" he asked, already grinning.

"Yes, please!" I chirped, tugging him toward the shop.

When we reached the counter, Jacob, knowing me better than anyone, placed the order without hesitation. "One cookies and cream, please."

"And," I added, "a mint chocolate chip."

He raised a brow at me. "Evelyn, I don't even want ice cream right now."

"No one needs ice cream, silly," I retorted, reaching up to brush his messy hair back. "They want it."

"Well, I don't want it either."

"You think you don't, but you do."

"Evelyn..."

"Your order, sir," the shopkeeper interrupted, handing over two cups before Jacob could argue further.


I grabbed the cups, thrusting his toward him before scooping a spoonful of mine. Anticipation turned to confusion as I frowned at the taste.

"What's wrong?" Jacob asked, his brow furrowing.

"It's... off," I said, my disappointment palpable.

He reached for my cup. "Let me try."

After taking a bite, he shook his head, amused. "Tastes fine to me. Classic cookies and cream."

"Really?" I snatched it back, determined to give it another shot. But no, it still tasted strange. The smell was right, the texture perfect-but my tastebuds were betraying me. What was wrong with me these days?

I sighed in defeat. "Maybe today just isn't my ice cream day."

Jacob offered a sympathetic smile. "Want to try somewhere else? I know a few good spots." He hesitated before holding up his untouched cup. "You could even have mine, but..." His tone turned teasing. "You've always hated mint chocolate chip."

My gaze drifted to his cup. The creamy green swirl suddenly looked... tempting.

"Can I try it?" I asked, surprising even myself.

to try

"What's wrong with trying

as he handed me


froze. It was incredible. A delightful mix of refreshing mint and rich chocolate that

"Jacob, how did I

my hair. "Because you're

swatted his hand away. "Don't

in to kiss my cheek. "Fine. So, what are

"An adult, obviously!"

earned a full, hearty

you laughing?" I

his tone light with mischief as he started walking

think they're

I just fucking tell you that I am

up a generous dollop of ice cream and smashed it

For a heartbeat, neither of us moved. Then, unable to hold it in, I burst into laughter. "Oh my God,


raising his hand to wipe the ice cream from his nose with the slow precision

the realization of my mistake hit me. Without waiting for a response, I turned on my heel

getting away with this, Evelyn!" Jacob's voice rang out behind me, followed

ran as fast as I could, weaving through the narrow street, my heart racing from equal parts exertion and exhilaration.

didn't take long before he caught up, effortlessly grabbing my

said smugly, his eyes glinting

for breath, I tried to wriggle

what was left of his ice cream across my

squealed, smacking his

laughing as he wiped a smudge of mint chocolate chip

laugh along with him. Moments like this— carefree, silly,

***

my best efforts to stay asleep. It was still late at night—I could tell by Jacob's steady breathing beside me. He was always the first to wake up in the mornings,


up slowly, my gaze settling on him. As expected, my man

happiness as I lay back down, facing him. I could do this forever-watch him, savor the peacefulness of these moments. There was a serenity here, one I never wanted

hands ached to touch

of his jaw, thread through his soft hair,

knewid wake him if

indulged, so I

slip out of bed instead. My smile deepened when I realized I was still wearing his shirt. I

stepped onto the balcony. My fingers gripped the railing as I stared into the quiet city below. Most apartments were cloaked in darkness, save

the soft whispers of the

chest, his chin resting on my shoulder as his

voice soft and low, his lips brushing my

fire, soothing and electrifying all at once. The shirt I wore had done little to

but warmth. He

perfectly, like the final piece of a puzzle I hadn't known

glancing over my

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255