My Dad's Bestfriend

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 mint

nonchalance. "What's wrong with trying

eyes as he handed me his cup. "Here. Let's see

incredible. A delightful mix of refreshing mint and rich chocolate that made me

another spoonful. "Jacob, how did I not know this flavor was so good?

ruffled my hair. "Because you're a

away. "Don't call me a

in to kiss my cheek. "Fine. So,

"An adult, obviously!"

earned a

you laughing?"

he said, his tone light with mischief as

they're adults these

just fucking tell you that I am not a

Jacob could finish, I scooped up a generous dollop

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

cream from his nose with the slow precision of someone plotting revenge. The ominous look in his eyes made

mouth as the realization of my mistake hit me. Without waiting for a response, I turned on my heel and bolted, trying-and

rang out behind me, followed by the sound of

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

up, effortlessly grabbing

he said smugly, his eyes glinting with

wriggle

He smeared what was left of his ice cream across my cheek, a victorious grin

I squealed,

as he wiped a smudge of mint chocolate chip from his own

mess, I couldn't help but laugh along with him. Moments like this— carefree, silly,

***

slipped past my lips as I began to stir, despite my best efforts to stay asleep. It was still late at night—I could tell by Jacob's steady breathing beside me. He was

eyes open, I sat 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 to lose. He was my peace. The

hands ached

line of his jaw, thread through his soft hair, and caress the slight stubble

knewid wake him if

indulged, so I

smile deepened when I realized I was still wearing his shirt. I like smelling just

quiet city below. Most apartments were cloaked in darkness, save for a

stood there for a while, soaking in the stillness and the soft whispers of the

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

he murmured, his voice soft and low,

the coolness of the night. His presence was everything-comfort and fire, soothing and electrifying all at once. The shirt I wore had done

warmth. He

of a puzzle I hadn't known I

are you awake?" I asked, glancing over my shoulder. "I could've