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.

blinked. "You want to try mint chocolate

feigning nonchalance. "What's wrong with trying new

he handed me


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

did I not know this flavor was so good? I've been trashing it my entire

ruffled my hair. "Because

away. "Don't call me

kiss my cheek. "Fine. So,

"An adult, obviously!"

earned a full, hearty

laughing?" I demanded,

he said, his tone light with

kids think they're adults

just fucking tell you that I am not

Before Jacob could finish, I scooped up a generous dollop of ice

with disbelief. For a heartbeat, neither of us moved. Then, unable to hold it


ice cream from his nose with the slow precision of

hit me. Without waiting for a response, I

voice rang out behind me,

through the narrow street, my heart racing from equal parts exertion and exhilaration. But let's

before he caught up, effortlessly grabbing

said smugly, his

tried to wriggle free. "Fine! You win!

was left of his ice cream across my cheek, a victorious grin spreading

I squealed, smacking

what you get," he said, laughing as he wiped a smudge of mint chocolate chip

him. Moments like

***

me. He was always the first to wake up in the mornings, and feeling his warmth now, deep in slumber, confirmed it was either


I sat up slowly, my gaze settling on him. As

quiet kind of 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 to lose. He was my peace. The

hands ached to

his soft hair, and caress the slight stubble on his

knewid wake him if

indulged, so I

realized I was still wearing his shirt. I

as I stepped onto the balcony. My fingers gripped the railing as I stared into the quiet city below. Most apartments

the breeze against my skin.

me back against his chest, his chin resting on my shoulder as

he murmured, his voice soft and low, his lips brushing

the coolness of the night. His presence was everything-comfort and fire, soothing and electrifying all at once. The shirt I wore had done little to shield me from the chill, but

warmth. He

the final piece of a puzzle I

you awake?" I asked, glancing over

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