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"Really?"
I hadn't aimed for sexy, but I suppose that's not a bad thing. I think?
Leia stifles a laugh with her hand. "No, not sexy, but you do look super cute."
Well, that's slightly disappointing.
"I was hoping for more than just cute," I grumble.
Leia quickly reassures me, "You're always beautiful, and your outfit is cute, so you look gorgeous."
I pout. "You could've started with that."
"Watching you squirm is much more fun," she teases.
I tug at the collar of my sweater, trying to get some cool air on my slightly sweaty skin. "Rude," I gasp. "Ugh, I wish I could have worn a dress."
Leia heads over to our closet. "You can wear one if you want. He can handle it."
I slump back onto my bed. "He told me to bring my skates, so a dress is definitely out of the question."
Leia concedes, "Yeah, okay. I guess you should be comfortable if you're going skating." She sounds a bit disappointed she won't get to help me choose a new outfit.
"What if—"
A knock at our door has Leia's eyes going wide, her excitement painted across her face with a vibrant red smile, the same shade as her lips. She doesn't grant me a moment to sit up on my bed, let alone collect my thoughts, before she dashes to the door, swinging it open with such enthusiasm that I half expect the hinges to shudder in response.
On the other side stands Lincoln, cradling a bouquet of flowers that appear to belong to the superior variety, not the generic kind you'd pick up at a grocery store. They're a delightful blend of pink and white, precisely the choice I'd make for myself if given the chance.
I quickly clamber off my bed, taking a moment to smooth my unruly hair before heading towards the door, playfully nudging Leia aside. Lincoln and I find ourselves momentarily frozen in our respective spots, our gazes unabashedly exploring each other. I appreciate the snug fit of his jeans over his impressive thighs, the touch of sophistication his gray sweater and black jacket bring to his outfit, and the evident effort he's put into taming his unruly hair.
The sight before me has me nearly salivating, and I subtly swipe at my chin to ensure no drool has escaped my notice. Leia's throat clearing breaks our enchantment, prompting a burst of laughter from her as she accepts the bouquet from Lincoln and practically shoves me out of the door towards him.
Stepping into the hallway, I can't help but notice Ronan standing to the side, a perplexing addition to this scene. "Ronan, what are you doing here?"
"Sutt, I'll put these flowers in water. Have fun!" Leia announces, her tone ringing with amusement.
Ronan appears on the verge of bursting with joy as he rocks back and forth on his feet. "See you guys later!"
My confusion mounts as I inquire, "What's happening later?"
Leia responds with a sly smile, "We're going to their house to watch a movie tonight."
My face flushes with embarrassment as I mumble, "Thanks for the heads-up."
Ignoring my comment, she flashes a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with affection, and waves. "Love you! I'll see you later!"
I raise my hand to wave goodbye, but before I can react, Ronan playfully shoves by me into my room, basically slamming the door in my face. Lincoln and I are left alone in the dimly lit hallway, tension and anticipation hanging in the air.
He extends his hand toward me, his palm steady, fingers inviting. I pray my own hands aren't clammy as I gently slide mine into his, our fingers intertwining seamlessly. He takes the lead, guiding us out of the dorm and into the chilly evening, his grip reassuring and warm.
His voice is tinged with a hint of uncertainty as he clears his throat. "I hope you don't mind that we're going skating. I thought it might be fun, given that we both enjoy it." He pauses, his words hanging in the balance. "But, I mean, if you'd rather do something else, we can totally change our plans. We can find something else to do."
I can't help but wonder if he's nervous. His words spill out in a torrent of indecision, and I'm determined to help him find his footing. "No, no," I reassure him with a smile.
"Skating sounds perfect. I love it." I pat my bag and add, "I even brought my skates!"
As we reach his truck, he opens the passenger side door for me. I step forward to climb inside, and he lends a supportive hand to guide me up into the seat. Our eyes meet, and I see a wave of relief wash over his face.
