Wildflower

Midsummers Heartbreak

The night dragged on, and Emma couldn't help but feel restless. She excused herself from the dinner table and headed outside, craving fresh air. The night was warm and humid, and the sky was a deep shade of navy blue. The stars twinkled above her, and in the distance, she could hear the distant sound of music and laughter from the Midsummer festival.

As Emma walked around the garden, her mind wandered to Topper. She couldn't shake the feeling that he was with someone else tonight, someone prettier, smarter, and better than her. She cursed herself for feeling this way, but she couldn't help it. Topper had a way of making her feel small and insignificant.

She decided to call him, just to hear his voice. It went straight to voicemail. Emma left a message, telling him she missed him and asking him to call her back.

As she walked back into the house, Emma heard a knock at the door. She turned to see Topper standing there, his eyes fixed on hers. Emma's heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, she forgot all her worries and fears.

"Hey," he said, his voice soft.

"Hey," she replied, trying to sound nonchalant.

"I'm sorry I'm late," he said, his eyes never leaving hers. "I had to take care of something."

Emma knew better than to ask him what he had been doing. She didn't want to ruin the moment.

"Come with me," Topper said, taking her hand.

He led her outside, away from the house and the party. They walked in silence until they came to a small clearing, surrounded by trees. In the center of the clearing was a small pond, and a bench sat next to it.

Topper sat down on the bench and motioned for Emma to sit next to him. She sat down, and they both looked out at the pond, the moonlight reflecting off the water.

"I'm sorry," Topper said, breaking the silence. "For everything. I don't want to fight with you anymore."

Emma didn't know what to say. She wanted to believe him, but she had heard those words before.

"I love you, Emma," Topper said, turning to look at her. "I know I don't show it enough, but I do."

Emma felt a lump form in her throat. She wanted to tell him she loved him too, but she couldn't bring herself to say the words.

"I'm tired, Topper," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I know," he said, taking her hand. "Let's go home."

They stood up, and Emma felt Topper wrap his arm around her waist. As they walked back to the house, Emma couldn't help but wonder if things would ever be different between them.