The tension around me began to lift like fog in the morning sun.
After everything—Kane's heartbreak, and my own confusion—I finally knew what I wanted. I had already told Aaron I loved him. He hadn't hesitated to wrap his arms around me, whispering, "I was always yours, Lily. I just didn't know how long I'd have to wait."
But love didn't fix everything overnight.
We were still navigating our relationship. We weren't just Lily and Aaron, friends or classmates anymore. Now it was real.
"You're quiet," Aaron said, brushing his fingers along my hand as we sat on the college lawn under the old tree.
"I'm thinking."
"Dangerous habit," he teased, then grew more serious. "Are you thinking about Kane?"
I flinched. Not because I regretted my choice—but because I still cared about Kane's feelings and he is my best friend. "Yes. But not like that."
Aaron nodded slowly, looking away. "I don't blame you. I mean if my bestfriend stopped talking to me it would hurt me too and because of that you feel that the whole part of your life had changed."
"I guess I didn't realize how much I relied on him emotionally. He was... there. But it wasn't love. Not the kind I feel when I look at you."
He glanced over, surprised. "You don't usually say things like that."
"I want to start. You waited long enough."
He leaned closer. "Then say it again."
I smiled and whispered, "I love you."
The wind rustled the leaves above us. For a moment, everything stilled. And then Aaron kissed me—deep and warm.