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"I'm sure they're beautiful."

"They are."

I smile. She's already planned half of it. She catches me looking at her.

"Why are you looking at me like that?"

"I'm listening to you plan our life."

Her expression softens.

"You don't mind?"

"Maddy." I pull her closer. "I've never wanted anything more."

She touches my face. Then kisses me.

Somewhere between the food cooling on our plates and the restaurant that doesn't exist yet, the future stops being something we're afraid to talk about. It becomes something we're building. Together.

It's late when Maddy finally looks at the clock.

"I should go."

"I'll drive you."

“My car's still by the main building.”

"I'll bring it to you tomorrow."

Her mouth curves.

"You just don't want me to leave yet."

"No."

Her smile changes. Softer now.

"Okay."

I grab my keys. We drive to Helen's with Maddy beside me and her hand in mine across the console. Neither of us talks much. We don't need to. The town is quiet at this hour. Streetlights pass across her face as we drive. Every few minutes, my thumb moves over her fingers just to remind myself she's there.

When I pull up in front of Helen's house, the porch light is on. Maddy looks toward it, then at me.

"I still have to go back Monday."

"I know."

"There's a lot left to finish."

"I know that too."

She searches my face.

"I am coming back."

The words settle deep.

"I know."