Page 8 of Stalked By the Gamer

"He is," she confirms. "He's really into this new chick. I haven't met her yet, but he seems happy." Nova swirls her wine, gazing into the glass. "It's nice, you know? Having someone."

I reach across the table, squeezing her hand. "You deserve that too, Nova."

She looks up at me through her lashes, eyes gleaming. "Yeah?"

"Absolutely." I brush my thumb over her knuckles, heart pounding. "Anyone would be lucky to have you."

"What about you?" Nova whispers. "Would you want...something real?"

I stare into her eyes, willing her to feel the intensity of what I'm about to say. "I've wanted something real for a very long time."

A soft gasp escapes her. I've dreamed of this moment. Having Nova look at me like I'm her entire world.

Tonight is only the beginning. She's mine now, heart and soul, and I'm never letting her go.

My pulse races as I wait for Nova's response, barely daring to breathe.

Finally, she smiles, slow and sweet, eyes shining. "Me too."

Joy erupts in my chest, nearly overwhelming in its intensity. I squeeze Nova's hand tighter, thrilled when she doesn't pull away. "Can I have your number then? So, we can stay in touch?"

Nova hesitates, nibbling her lower lip. For one heart-stopping second, I'm afraid she'll say no. Then she nods, a faint blush staining her cheeks. "Yeah, I'd like that."

I pull out my phone, fingers trembling in anticipation as I type in the numbers Nova recites. Her contact info appears on the screen, solid proof this isn't just another fantasy.

Nova Sinclair.Mine.

"There," she says with a shy grin. "Now you can text me whenever you want."

"I'll be sure to take advantage of that." I tuck my phone away, meeting Nova's gaze. "Thank you for giving me a chance. I really enjoy spending time with you."

"Me too." Nova squeezes my hand once more before pulling away. "I should head home, though."

I stand as she does, walking Nova to her car. The urge to kiss her is nearly overwhelming, but I resist. We've only just begun. There will be time for that later.

For now, I'm content watching Nova drive away, already imagining our next conversation. The start of something real and deep and forever.

Just like I promised.

* * *

That night, I can barely sleep. All I can think about is Nova—her smile, her laugh, the way she felt in my arms. My fingers itch to text her, but it's late and I don't want to seem overeager.

When the sun peeks through my curtains, I give in.

Good morning, beautiful. I hope you slept well. I couldn't stop thinking about you.

Really? Cause I had trouble sleeping too. Kept replaying our date in my head.

I blush like a schoolboy as I grin down at my phone.

Mmm, I like the sound of that. What was your favorite part?

Honestly, just talking with you for hours. I feel like I can tell you anything.

You can, sweetheart. I want to know all your secrets. The good and the bad.

Maybe someday. If you keep taking me out on amazing dates like that, I might just spill everything.

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