Chapter Seven: Right Where You Left Me

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Back in the familiar embrace of Chicago, the city buzzed with life around us as Connor and I navigated the bustling streets. Our recent trip to New Jersey had left an indelible mark on our friendship, deepening the connection between us in ways I never imagined possible. And now, as we walked side by side headed to Lucid Cafe at midnight, the air tinged with anticipation and uncertainty, I couldn't shake the feeling that something momentous was about to happen.

As we reached a the café nestled on a corner, Connor turned to me with a nervous smile, his eyes shimmering with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine. "Sage, there's something I've been wanting to ask you."

My heart skipped a beat as I held my breath, the weight of his words hanging in the air between us. Could it be? Was he about to ask me what I hoped he would?

"Would you like to go on a date with me?" Connor's voice was tentative, his vulnerability a stark contrast to the confident athlete I had adapted to.

A rush of emotion flooded through me, overwhelming in its intensity. The mere thought of spending more time with Connor, exploring the depths of our connection beyond friendship, filled me with a sense of joy and trepidation.

"Yes, Connor," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. "I would love to go on a date with you."

A smile broke across Connor's face, lighting up his features with a radiant warmth that mirrored the sun's gentle embrace. With a newfound sense of purpose, we stepped into the café, our hearts dancing to the rhythm of possibility.


The following day, our date dawned with a sense of excitement and nervous energy. Connor arrived at my apartment with a bouquet of flowers in hand, his smile infectious as he greeted me at the door. I have the flowers to Italy to let her handle while Connor and I headed to Lucid Cafe.

As we settled into the cozy corner of the bistro, I took a deep breath, steeling myself to share the fragments of my past with Connor. The ambiance of the café provided a soft backdrop to our conversation, the gentle hum of chatter providing a sense of privacy amidst the bustling surroundings.

"Connor," I began, my voice wavering slightly with nervousness, "there are things about my past that I haven't shared with many people. But I feel like you deserve to know before we go any further."

Connor's gaze softened with concern as he reached across the table, his hand finding mine in a gesture of silent support. "You can tell me anything, Sage. I'm here for you."

Taking a moment to gather my thoughts, I plunged into the depths of my memories, each word heavy with emotion and vulnerability. I spoke of the pain of losing loved ones, of the scars that marred my soul, of the struggles that defined me as much as they challenged me.

"It hasn't been easy," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "There have been moments when I felt like I couldn't go on, when the weight of my past threatened to consume me."

As I spoke, Connor listened with a compassion and understanding that left me breathless. I told him everything, from my twin brother dying to leaving Connor behind. His presence was a steady anchor in the storm, his unwavering support a beacon of light in the darkness.

"I'm sorry you had to go through all of that," Connor said softly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of empathy and admiration. "But I want you to know that you're not alone. I'm here for you, Sage, every step of the way."

Tears welled in my eyes as I met Connor's gaze, the depth of his compassion washing over me like a wave of warmth. In that moment, surrounded by the comforting embrace of his understanding, I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.

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