the way i loved you.

chapter two - i've been waiting for you

"you thrill me, you delight me."
- ABBA

In the cozy corner of a quaint coffee shop, I found refuge in a captivating book, losing myself in its pages. The aroma of freshly ground coffee filled the air as I turned each page, savoring the words that transported me to another world.

Suddenly, a shadow fell across the pages, and I looked up to find Jace standing before me with an enigmatic smile.

"Mind if I join you, Blondie?"

I closed the book, a curious glint in my eyes and a rosy haze on my cheeks.

"Buzz, what brings you here?"

He leaned in, his tone conspiratorial.

"How about a change of scenery? I know a secret spot not far from here. Interested?"

Intrigued, flustered and curiosity sparking I stare up at him.

"Ever heard of stranger danger Buzz?"

He placed a hand over his heart acting hurt.

"Stranger? Blondie I thought we knew each other better than that." He gasped making me chuckle and I found myself feeling more at ease around him.

Finally, I nodded.

"Lead the way, Jace."

We left the coffee shop, navigating through winding woods until Jace and I found ourselves at the edge of a serene lake, surrounded by the rustle of leaves and the distant sounds of nature. Jace turned to me with a playful grin.

"How about a swim, Blondie? It's refreshing, trust me."

I hesitated, glancing at the crystal-clear water. Jace's enthusiasm was contagious, and with a small smile, I agreed. We kicked off our shoes and waded into the shallows.

"Is this where you murder me?" I laugh but I'm not sure I'm entirely joking.

He shook his head and swam closer to me.

"I would never hurt you Blondie." He swore and I believed him, I would have believed anything he said at that moment. It makes me think of a time when my mom sat me down and we talked about promises.

- 4 Years Ago -

In the cozy living room of our home, I sat across from my mother, Alyssa, surrounded by the warmth of familiarity. My mother, with a tender expression, spoke in a voice that carried the weight of experience.

"Sweetheart," My mom began, her gaze reflecting a mix of love and concern, "there's something I want you to remember as you navigate through life."

I looked up from my book, giving my mother my full attention.

"Beware of boys who make promises," My mom continued, her words tinged with a hint of caution. "They might mean well at the moment, but promises are fragile, like delicate glass. They often shatter when you least expect it."

I furrowed my brow, curious about the wisdom my mother was sharing.

Alyssa sighed, her eyes distant as if revisiting her memories. "People change, circumstances change, and sometimes promises are made with the best intentions. But life has a way of throwing curveballs. Boys, especially in the realm of romance, might promise forever, but it's essential to be cautious."

I nodded, absorbing the lesson. "Why do you say that, Mom?"

My mother's gaze softened. "I've seen too many hearts broken, including my own. Promises are beautiful, but they can be fleeting. Focus on actions, on consistency. A person's character is revealed through time, not just through the promises they make."

I considered my mother's words, a newfound awareness settling within me. My mother reached across, gently squeezing my hand.

"Love, don't be afraid to dream and hope, but guard your heart wisely. Choose someone whose actions speak louder than promises. You deserve nothing less."

- Present -

"You seem lost in thought. Everything alright?" Jace says looking at me curiously.

I sighed, the weight of unspoken emotions lifting in the tranquility of the lake. "It's just... I've always found solace near water. It's where I can be myself." I say changing the topic away from my wandering mind.

"Me too. Water has a way of washing away the noise, leaving only what truly matters." Jace nodded as he spoke

"How did your mom meet Theo?" Jace asks curiously making me smile.

My voice softened as I delved into the tale of how Theo, her stepfather, entered our lives. "Theo met my mom at a local bookstore. He was shy, awkward even. But when he talked about books, his eyes lit up. Mom fell for him, not just for who he was but for who he inspired her to be."

Jace listened intently, the water lapping around us.

"Sounds like a beautiful beginning."

I smiled, a warmth spreading through me.

"It was. They faced challenges, but love kept them strong. I learned from them that love isn't just a feeling; it's a choice, a commitment."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues across the sky, Jace and I swam back to the shore, my heart lighter.

The evening air turned crisp as we strolled back from the hidden lake to the familiar glow of the coffee shop. The distant city lights painted a canvas above, and a gentle breeze whispered through the quiet streets.

The cold air touched my exposed skin and caused goosebumps to spread over my arms. Jace unbuttoned his jacket, a subtle gesture that spoke volumes, and draped it over my shoulders.

"You look like you could use some warmth, Blondie."

I smiled, grateful for the unexpected kindness.

"Thanks, Buzz. It's chilly out here."

We continued our walk, the soft patter of our footsteps accompanied by the distant murmur of the city. I couldn't help but feel a comforting warmth beneath Jace's jacket, both literal and metaphorical.

As we approached the cozy coffee shop, Jace glanced at me with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"You know, I've heard coffee warms the soul too. Care for another cup?"

I laughed, the sound carrying in the night air.

"I'd love that."

Inside the cafe, the familiar aroma of brewed coffee enveloped us. Jace held the door open for me, a gesture that echoed the warmth of our shared moments. As we settled into a corner, I, wrapped in Jace's jacket, felt not just the physical comfort but a subtle connection that transcended the cool night air-a shared warmth in the unspoken spaces between us.