Laughter filled the living room as Dylan and I sat across from each other, him chuckling even though he had no idea what was so funny. I was practically in tears, holding my stomach as I struggled to get my words out.

"If you could've seen his face, Dylan, you would be laughing just as hard as I am right now!" I gasped between fits of laughter.

Dylan shook his head, grinning. "I don't even know if what you're saying is true, but honestly, it's still funny as hell."

"It is true! Ask Thomas, he'll back me up right awa—"

My phone vibrated against the table, cutting off my words. I glanced at the screen, my laughter immediately fading when I saw Thomas's name flashing.

Dylan smirked knowingly, raising an eyebrow. "Lover boy calling?"

I rolled my eyes but didn't bother denying it as I answered. "Hello, Thomas?"

"Hey, love. Are you home?"

"Yeah, why?" I asked, curiosity piqued.

"Be ready in fifteen minutes. I'm picking you up."

Before I could even respond, the line went dead.

I stared at my phone in disbelief.

Dylan let out an exaggerated sigh, shaking his head dramatically. "Lover boy moves fast, huh?"

I grabbed the nearest pillow and launched it at him. "Shut up, Dylan."

He dodged effortlessly, still grinning. "Seriously though, why are you still standing here? You have fifteen minutes, and knowing you, you'll need every second of that to pick an outfit."

I groaned but didn't argue. Instead, I walked over to him, wrapping my arms around him in a quick hug. "Thanks, Dyl. For always being so supportive."

He softened, squeezing me back. "You're like a sister to me. I'll always be here for you."

I smiled against his shoulder. "And I'll always be here for you too, big bro."

Dylan gave me a light shove. "Alright, enough of this sappy moment. Go get ready before Thomas leaves you behind."

I rolled my eyes but quickly rushed to my room.

I stood in front of my closet, staring at the mess of clothes before me. What do you even wear when your maybe-boyfriend kidnaps you for a surprise date?

Thomas hadn't given me any clues, which only made things harder. Should I go casual? Dressy? Something in between?

After mentally debating for a full five minutes, I finally settled on (insert outfit of your choice).

I slipped on my shoes just as a knock sounded from the front door.

Perfect timing.

I quickly checked my reflection in the mirror before heading to the door. When I opened it, I was immediately met with the sight of a bouquet of roses.

"For you," Thomas said, holding the flowers up to my face with a small, shy smile.

I took the bouquet from him, lowering it slightly so I could actually see his face. And damn, he looked good.

How was it possible for someone to look effortlessly attractive in just a simple t-shirt and jeans? It wasn't fair.

"So," he said, rocking on his heels slightly. "You ready to go?"

"Yeah, let me just put these in a vase real quick," I said, walking back inside to place the roses in water before grabbing my bag.

Ten minutes into the drive, I couldn't hold my curiosity any longer.

"Thomas, where are we going?" I asked, turning to him with a suspicious look.

He simply smirked, keeping his eyes on the road. "You'll see."

I groaned, slumping back into my seat. "Come on, you know I hate surprises."

"I know," he said, amusement clear in his voice. "But I promise you'll love this one."

I huffed, crossing my arms dramatically. "Fine."

Thomas chuckled, glancing at me briefly. "You look mad."

"I am mad," I muttered, turning my gaze out the window.

"Uh-oh," he teased. "Guess I better start making it up to you now."

I rolled my eyes, but before I could retort, he reached over, his fingers gently lacing through mine.

My breath hitched slightly at the simple gesture.

Neither of us said anything.

Neither of us pulled away.

And just like that, my irritation melted away.

After what felt like forever, Thomas finally pulled the car into a parking lot. I looked out the window, and the second I saw where we were, my heart leaped.

An amusement park.

I turned to Thomas, wide-eyed. "No way."

He grinned. "Told you you'd be happy."

A warmth spread through my chest. He remembered.

I had mentioned once—just in passing—that I hadn't been to an amusement park in years. That I missed the thrill of roller coasters, the taste of overpriced cotton candy, the sheer joy of running around like a kid again.

And now, here we were.

Without thinking, I leaned over and pressed a quick kiss to his lips before practically bouncing out of the car.

Thomas followed closely behind me, reaching for my hand as we walked toward the entrance.

It wasn't until we were already inside, surrounded by the buzzing energy of the crowd, that I realized—

We were holding hands.

In public.

I glanced down at our intertwined fingers, then up at Thomas, but he didn't seem fazed. He was just looking around, smiling, as if this was the most natural thing in the world.

My heart pounded.

This was real.

Not a stolen moment. Not something hidden in the shadows.

For the first time since all of this started, it felt like we were truly together.

And I never wanted it to end.