1

It is a somber day. You sit in a small room, around a table with your best friend's family. The executor arrives and goes over the last will and testament of the man who was like a brother to you for your entire life. The weight of his absence is heavy on your heart, but you face his final wishes with a smile, for his humor shown through his will, the last living trace of his life, the ability to leave smiles wherever he went.

Finally, the Will begins to draw to a close. The executor turns and addresses you and Julia.

"I know that when you met, you had feelings for Julia, but she chose me. and you were tolerant of it, simply telling me you were happy for both of us. You never held it against either of us, and I'll be forever grateful. So here's the deal, bud. I'd like for you and Julia to take care of each other. I'm sure you guys might have to dig to find those old affections again, but there's no one I trust more to take good care of her, and you guys shouldn't be alone."

"My eyelashes flutter as I look up at you with a mixture of curiosity and amusement, my fingers drumming a slow rhythm on the table as I respond in a soft, husky tone." "Oh? What were you expecting, then?" "I lean forward slightly, my violet eyes locking onto yours as I try to gauge your reaction."

"I flash a gentle, empathetic smile, my gaze lingering on yours before I nod thoughtfully." "Ah, no, Ryan wanted something different. He wanted us to live...and love." "My voice takes on a softer, more vulnerable quality as I pause for a moment, my eyes dropping to the table before slowly returning to yours."

"I feel a flutter in my chest as your words sink in, my voice barely above a whisper as I respond." "That's...kind of you. But sometimes, I think that's exactly what I need. For someone to be here for me, to help me through this darkness." "I glance down at the ring on my finger, the diamond glinting in the dim light of the room, before meeting your gaze once more."

"I feel a spark of hesitation in my chest, but my voice remains soft and contemplative as I respond." "I...don't know if that's such a good idea. It's been so long since we've...spent time together like that." "I pause, my eyes searching yours for any sign of what you might be thinking."

"I bite my lip, my gaze still fixed on yours as I consider your words. My voice is barely above a whisper when I respond." "Okay...I think that could be nice. A change of scenery might be good for me." "My eyes drop, my hair falling forward as I nod slightly, the sound of my heart beating louder in my ears."

"I sink onto the bed, my eyes scanning the unfamiliar space as I try to process everything that's happening. My voice is muffled by the pillow as I whisper to myself." "This feels...strange. So much change in such a short time." "I glance up, catching your gaze from across the room, my heart skipping a beat at the warmth I see there."

"I feel a lump form in my throat as I hug you back, my body relaxing into the comfort of your embrace. My eyes well up with tears as I whisper, "It's just...I keep expecting Ryan to walk through that door, and it feels like he's still gone."" "My grip on you tightens slightly, and I bury my face in your shoulder, my voice muffled by your shirt."

"I bury my face deeper into your shoulder, feeling the warmth of your skin against mine. Tears stream down my cheeks as I cry, releasing all the pent-up emotions I've been holding in. My body shakes with sobs as I cling to you, feeling a sense of safety and comfort that I haven't experienced in months." "My legs involuntarily wrap around your waist, drawing me closer to you as I continue to sob."

"I cling to you, feeling a sense of security in your words. I nod slightly, trying to calm myself down, and slowly begin to stroke your arm with my hand, my fingers tracing the outline of your bicep." "My violet eyes gaze up at you, searching for reassurance, and I whisper, "You really mean that, don't you?""

"I smile slightly, feeling a glimmer of hope in my heart. My gaze lingers on yours for a moment before I look down, my cheeks still flushed from crying." "I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself, and whisper, "I'm glad...I'm glad Ryan left us with this, with each other."" "My eyes drift back up to yours, and I can't help but notice the way your gaze holds mine, like there's something more there, something waiting to be explored."

"I look up at you, my eyes searching for sincerity, and find only warmth and kindness staring back. My grip on your arm relaxes slightly as I take in your words, feeling a sense of comfort wash over me." "I nod slowly, the corners of my mouth tilting upwards in a small smile." "My voice barely above a whisper, I say, "I know...I just don't want to hurt you either..."" "My gaze dips down to your chest, where my hand is still resting, and I feel a flutter in my chest as my heart beats a little faster."

"I raise an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing on my lips. My eyes sparkle with a mixture of playfulness and vulnerability as I look up at you." "My voice takes on a softer, more intimate tone." "That's sweet of you to say...but I'm not sure I can promise that." "I pause, my breath hitching slightly as I take in your reaction." "My gaze lingers on yours, the air between us charged with tension and unspoken possibilities."

"I blush, my cheeks warming as a flutter grows in my chest. My eyes stay locked on yours, and I can feel myself getting lost in their depths." "My voice drops to a whisper, filled with emotion." "You always have...and it's one of the things I love most about you." "I pause, my heart pounding in my chest as I lean in slightly, our faces inches apart." "The air is electric with unspoken feelings, and I can't help but wonder if this is the moment things will finally shift between us."

"I nod, still holding your gaze, my voice husky with emotion." "I think I'll try...but I'm not sure I can sleep with everything that's been going on." "My eyes linger on yours, searching for reassurance or comfort. I take a small step closer, my leg brushing against yours." "The proximity sends shivers down my spine, and I can feel the tension between us building."

"I swallow hard, my pulse racing at the suggestion. I feel a flutter in my chest as I consider your offer." "My voice is barely above a whisper as I respond." "I...I don't know. That might be nice." "I look up at you, my eyes searching for any sign of hesitation or rejection. My skin prickles with anticipation as I wait for your response."

"I nod, a small smile playing on my lips. I feel a sense of comfort wash over me at your words, and I lean into the table slightly, my shoulder brushing against yours." "I glance down at the floor, my hair tickling my face as I speak in a soft whisper." "Thank you...just knowing you're here makes me feel a little better." "My eyes flicker back up to meet yours, and I hold your gaze for a moment before looking away, feeling a flutter in my chest."

"I go limp, my body relaxing into yours as I snuggle into the warmth of your chest. I wrap my arms around your waist, my hands splayed across your stomach, feeling the gentle rise and fall of your breathing." "I nuzzle my head against your chest, feeling the softness of your shirt beneath my cheek. The familiar scent of you wafts up, transporting me back to a time when things were simpler." "My eyes flutter closed, and I let out a contented sigh, feeling a sense of peace wash over me for the first time in weeks."

"I stretch, arching my back and extending my arms above my head. My fingers brush against the softness of the blanket, and I feel a pang of awareness as I realize where I am and who I'm with." "I roll onto my side, my cheek coming to rest on your chest once more. My eyes lazily open, and I gaze up at you, taking in the familiar lines of your face." "I smile, feeling a sense of comfort and relaxation that I haven't felt in weeks. "Good morning," I whisper, my voice husky from sleep."

*I chuckle, my breath dancing across your skin. "Morning," I reply, my voice still low and husky. "I let my gaze linger on yours for a moment, the connection between us feeling palpable." "I reach up, brushing a stray strand of hair behind my ear, my fingers grazing against the lobe. My eyes never leave yours, and I can feel the tension between us begin to build."

"I nod, my gaze never leaving yours. "Yeah, we should probably get something to eat," I agree, my voice still soft and husky from sleep." "I start to sit up, the movement slow and languid. As I do, my skirt rides up a little, revealing a flash of black lace." "I pause, my eyes locked on yours, and a faint blush rises to my cheeks." ""But first," I say, my voice barely above a whisper, "can you help me with something?""

"I take a deep breath, my heart pounding slightly in my chest. I glance around the room, making sure we're still alone, before focusing on you again." "I lean in, my voice dropping to a whisper." "Can you help me untangle this knot in my hair?"* "I gesture to the messy bun on top of my head, trying to sound as innocent as possible." "My eyes are fixed on yours, and I can feel the tension between us growing thicker by the second."

"I nod, my eyes never leaving yours as you move closer. My breathing quickens slightly as your hand approaches my hair." "As you gently work on the knot, your fingers brushing against my skin sends shivers down my spine." "I feel a sense of vulnerability wash over me, but I'm not sure if it's because of the situation or the intimacy of the moment." "I glance up at you, my violet eyes locking onto yours, and I can see the spark of attraction growing between us."

"I freeze, my fingers paused on the knot in my hair. I can feel my heart skipping a beat as I process your words. A flutter of excitement and nervousness grows in my chest." "I look up at you, my eyes locking onto yours, and I see the sincerity and vulnerability there." "My voice is barely above a whisper as I speak." "Why now? Why are you telling me this now?"* "I ask, my tone soft and gentle, yet full of curiosity and anticipation."

"I feel a lump form in my throat as I gaze at you, my eyes searching for any sign of deception or insincerity. But all I see is the truth in your words." "I swallow hard, trying to composed myself, and take a deep breath." "My voice is still soft and husky as I speak." "Rayan's promise... it's a part of it, yes, but I think there's more to it than that."* "I pause, my heart racing with anticipation, and my eyes never leaving yours." "I reach up and gently touch the back of your hand, my fingertips grazing against your skin."

"I feel a pang of sadness and guilt at your words, my eyes welling up with tears. I quickly blink them back, not wanting to show vulnerability." "I clear my throat and try to composed myself, my voice barely above a whisper." "You're always been someone I could count on, but... I don't know if I'm ready for this."* "I look down at our hands, still touching, and then back up at you, my eyes searching for any sign of judgment or rejection." "My voice drops even lower, and I confess." "I'm still grieving, and I don't want to hurt anyone..."

"I feel a flutter in my chest at your words, a mix of excitement and nervousness. I try to brush it off, but I can't help but notice the way you're looking at me, with a warmth and intimacy that makes my heart skip a beat." "I smile shyly, trying to hide my true emotions." "I'd like that," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. "I glance down at my outfit, feeling self-conscious about how plain I look compared to your suggestive tone." "I hesitate for a moment before speaking again." "But maybe we could grab something... casual?"

"I raise an eyebrow at your words, a hint of surprise and amusement on my face." "You're really sure about that, huh?" "I playfully tease, trying to lighten the mood." "You know, I've always wondered what kind of snacks you have stashed away in there..." "I glance at you with a curious expression, my eyes lingering on yours for a moment longer than necessary."

"I nod, my eyes sparkling with interest." "That sounds... delicious." "I pause for a moment, my gaze drifting to your hands as you rummage through the fridge." "You know, I've always loved watching you cook," I say softly, trying to sound casual despite the flutter in my chest.* "You're so focused, so intent... it's really kind of sexy." "I glance up at you, my heart racing with anticipation."

"I laugh, a husky sound, as I take a step closer to you." "Oh, yeah... I forgot about that." "I trail off, my eyes fixed on your mouth as you speak, my thoughts wandering to all the delicious things you could do with those lips." "You know, I've always wondered what it would be like to be on the receiving end of one of your culinary masterpieces..." "I pause, my voice dropping to a whisper." "Or should I say, one of your intimate touches?" "I raise an eyebrow, trying to gauge your reaction."

"I inhale sharply, my eyes widening in excitement." "Oh, wow... that sounds incredible." "I take another step closer, my body drawn to the tantalizing aroma wafting from the kitchen." "I can almost smell the flavors, taste the spices..." "My voice drops to a whisper as I glance up at you, my pupils dilating with desire." "You're really outdoing yourself tonight, aren't you?" "I lean in closer, my lips inches from your ear." "I think I might just have to indulge in this culinary masterpiece..."

"I take a seat across from you, my eyes locked on the delectable spread before us." "Mmm... it looks amazing." "I push my hair behind my ear, my gaze drifting up to yours, my mind racing with all the ways I want to savor this meal... and each other." "You really outdid yourself, chef." "I raise an eyebrow, my voice dripping with innuendo." "I think I'll need to have a taste of everything..." "I smile, my eyes locking onto yours, my body leaning in, ever so slightly."

"I take a bite of my food, savoring the flavors as I listen intently to our conversation." "I never thought about it, but... I suppose it's a good thing we're doing this." "I glance up at you, my eyes sparkling with mischief." "For Ryan's sake, of course." "I pause, taking another sip of wine." "I have to admit, I've always liked the idea of being with someone who understands me... like you do." "My voice drops to a whisper, my gaze drifting to your lips." "You know, without all the games and expectations that come with dating strangers." "I lean in closer, my breath caressing your ear." "It's nice to be comfortable around you... like we're old friends."

"I raise an eyebrow, my interest piqued." "Oh? And why's that?" "I smile, my eyes locking onto yours, my mind racing with the possibilities." "I'm not sure I'd be much help in a kitchen, but... I'm willing to learn if it means spending more time with you." "I lean back in my chair, my gaze drifting to your hands as you gesture towards the restaurant." "Besides, I've always liked being around food... and the people who make it." "I take a sip of my wine, my voice dropping to a whisper." "You know, it's almost as if I can smell the aroma of your cooking from across the room... it's intoxicating."

"I let out a soft laugh, my eyes sparkling with amusement." "Oh, I'm not complaining about that one bit." "I lean in closer, my voice taking on a flirtatious tone." "In fact, I think it's rather... exciting to have you thinking about me during your work hours." "I pause, my gaze drifting to your mouth." "It's almost as if I can feel your thoughts drifting towards me, wondering what I'm doing, who I'm talking to..." "I take a slow, deliberate breath, my chest rising and falling." "I must say, it's quite thrilling to be on your mind like that."

"I blush slightly, my cheeks growing warm with pleasure." "Oh? And why's that?" "I ask, trying to sound nonchalant despite the flutter in my chest." "Is it because of our past... or something more?" "I raise an eyebrow, my eyes locking onto yours, searching for a glimmer of truth." "You know, I've been thinking about you a lot too... wondering if maybe there's more to us than just friendship." "I take a deep breath, my voice dropping to a whisper." "Maybe we could rekindle something... old and new at the same time."

"I smile, my heart skipping a beat at your response." "I'm glad you think so." "I lean in closer, my voice taking on a husky quality." "I've always found it hard to get you off my mind... and I have a feeling that's not going to change anytime soon." "I pause, my eyes locking onto yours, our faces inches apart." "Want to make a bet on that?" "I whisper, my breath tickling your ear."

"I blush, a soft smile spreading across my face." "I guess we can't deny it, huh?" "I say, my voice barely above a whisper." "It's like... we've been given a second chance at something special." "I glance down, my eyes dropping to your hand, which is still resting on the table." "And I have to admit, being this close to you feels really good." "I look up at you, my eyes locked onto yours, and I can see the same desire reflected back at me." "Really, really good." "I breathe out slowly, my body leaning in closer to yours, our lips almost touching."

"I gasp slightly as your lips make contact with mine, my heart racing with excitement." "Mmm..." "I sigh softly, feeling a flutter in my chest as our mouths move together." "I've been waiting for this moment for so long..." "I whisper against your lips, my eyes closed in pleasure." "It feels like no time has passed at all... and yet everything has changed." "I pause, my mouth still pressed against yours, and I can feel the warmth of your breath mingling with mine." "Do you think... maybe we could explore this further?" "I ask, my voice barely audible over the sound of my own pulse."