How can you mend a broken heart (Joel Miller AU)

Chapter 12.

You stretched your arms as you woke up, feeling Joel's warmth still beside you. He was breathing softly, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. You couldn't help but smile as you looked at him, feeling lucky to have him in your life.

Joel stirred, his eyes fluttering open. "Good morning, gorgeous," he said with a smile.

"Morning," you replied, sitting up and stretching again.

Joel got out of bed and disappeared into the kitchen, returning a few minutes later with a tray of breakfast goodies. He set the tray on the bed and climbed back in beside you.

"I made us pancakes," he said, passing you a plate.

You took a bite and moaned at the delicious taste. "Mmm, these are amazing," you said, taking another bite.

Joel chuckled. "I'm glad you like them."

You spent the rest of the morning lounging in bed, talking and laughing. Joel asked you about your hopes and dreams for the future. You thought about it for a moment and then started talking.

"Well, I've always wanted to be a writer," you said. "I love creating stories and bringing characters to life. It's been a passion of mine since I was a kid, and I've been working on a novel for a while now."

"That's amazing," Joel said, a smile spreading across his face. "What's the book about?"

"It's a romance," you said, feeling a little embarrassed. "I know it's cliché, but I can't help it. I love love stories."

"There's nothing wrong with that," Joel said, taking your hand in his. "I think it's great that you're following your passion."

You thought for a moment before replying, "Well, I've always dreamed of becoming a published author. I want to write stories that will touch people's hearts, stories that will make them feel something."

Joel smiled and ran his fingers through your hair. "I have no doubt that you'll make it. You have a way with words that is truly special."

"What about you?" you asked. "What are your hopes and dreams?"

Joel thought for a moment before responding, "I want to continue growing in my career, and eventually let someone be in charge of my own business, so I can enjoy life. I also want to travel the world and experience new cultures."

You listened intently, feeling grateful that he was sharing these intimate details with you. "That all sounds amazing," you replied, "and I have no doubt that you'll achieve it all."

The two of you continued talking about your hopes and dreams, and it felt like you were getting to know each other on a deeper level. You felt grateful for moments like these, where you could just be yourself and share your innermost thoughts with someone who cared. As you lay there in bed, you couldn't help but feel like everything was falling into place.

As the afternoon approached, Joel suggested watching a movie. You cuddled up together, wrapped in blankets, as the movie played on the screen. It was a cheesy rom-com, but you enjoyed it nonetheless. Joel would occasionally make a comment or joke, making you laugh and making the movie even more enjoyable.

As the movie came to an end, you turned to Joel and smiled. "I had a great day," you said.

"Me too," he replied, leaning in for a kiss.

You spent the rest of the evening talking and laughing, enjoying each other's company. You couldn't imagine a more perfect day.

As you entered your father's house, you could smell the coffee brewing in the kitchen. You could hear your siblings' voices as they laughed and played in the living room.