Chapter 14 - The Confession

They enjoyed the meal, savoring the delicious food and the serene atmosphere. As they ate, they talked about their dreams, their fears, and everything in between. Serena opened up to Vernon in ways she hadn't with anyone else. His presence was comforting, and she felt a deep connection forming between them.

“You know, you're not that bad as a person I can talk with,” said Serena while smiling at Vernon.

“Hmm, so are you.”

“But sometimes you are too limited to speak. I don't like a man like that.”

Vernon just smiled and wiped his lips with a napkin. “Because I usually don't talk while eating, Serena. If you saw me talk like yesterday, it's because of my parents.”

Serena realized it and gulped down while Vernon gave her his charming gaze. She even rubbed her back and asked, “Are you done?”

He only nodded and still smiled, showing her his charm that made every woman melt.

After they finished eating, they lay back on the blanket, looking up at the stars. Vernon turned to Serena, his expression serious.

"Serena, I know we haven’t known each other for long, but I feel something special between us. I want to see where this goes."

Serena's heart raced when he started speaking, “Honestly, you made me crazy even for hours since we met.”

Serena laughed and replied, “A day? Two days? Ugh, you're a man full of honesty.”

Vernon only smiled, a look of relief and happiness washing over him. He reached out, gently cupping her face in his hand. "May I?"

Serena nodded, her breath catching in her throat. Vernon leaned in, their lips meeting in a tender, heartfelt kiss. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them under the starry sky.

When they finally pulled away, Serena felt a sense of contentment and excitement for the future. They stayed there for a while longer, wrapped in each other’s arms, before reluctantly deciding it was time to head back.

As Vernon drove her home, Serena couldn't help but feel that this was the start of something beautiful. They had crossed a threshold, and she was eager to see where their journey would take them next.

Before she got out of the car, Vernon leaned in for one more kiss. "Goodnight, Serena," he whispered.

"Goodnight, Vernon," she replied, her heart full. "I can't wait for our next adventure."

As she walked up to her apartment, Serena felt a sense of happiness and anticipation. Whatever the future held, she knew it would be extraordinary with Vernon by her side.

“He admits that he feels crazy about me. But, he still hasn't confessed his feelings to me or asked me to be his girlfriend,” she said as she had shower time.

One Friday evening, after a particularly grueling week at work, Vernon suggested they take a weekend trip out of the city. Serena, always eager for adventure, agreed. By Saturday morning, they were on the road, headed to a charming countryside inn that Vernon had reserved.

The inn was a picturesque, historic building nestled amid rolling hills and lush greenery. As they checked in, the innkeeper, an elderly woman with a warm smile, handed them a key to one of the inn’s most romantic rooms.

“You’ll love it here,” he said. “It’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.”

“Or, do you mean if we can be together?” asked Serena, teasing.

Vernon chuckled and shook his head knowing how naughty her mind was toward him.

Their room was cozy and inviting, with a large window offering a breathtaking view of the countryside. Serena immediately felt a sense of peace wash over her.

“This is perfect, Vernon,” she said, looking out at the serene landscape.

“I thought you’d like it,” he replied, wrapping his arms around her from behind. “Let’s make the most of this weekend.”

They spent the day exploring the nearby trails, enjoying a leisurely picnic by a sparkling stream, and visiting a local winery where they sampled delicious wines. As the sun began to set, they returned to the inn for a romantic dinner in the quaint dining room, where they indulged in gourmet dishes and shared laughter over candlelight.

After dinner, they decided to take a walk under the stars. The night was clear and crisp, the sky a canvas of twinkling lights. They strolled hand in hand, talking about their dreams and plans.

“Serena,” Vernon said suddenly, stopping to face her. “There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you.”

Serena looked at him, her heart skipping a beat. “What is it?”

“I’ve fallen for you,” he confessed, his voice steady and sincere. “Since I met you again, I realized you are the one I want.”

Tears welled up in Serena’s eyes, her heart swelling with emotion. She hoped that Vernon would confess immediately, and it became true. But, her heart felt this was too quick and it made her dilemma.

“But… this is too quick.”

“I don't ask you to be my girlfriend, Serena. I told you how I feel about you.”

Even though she hoped to be his girlfriend, it didn't matter if he hadn't asked her yet. At least Serena still wanted to get to know him and still wanted to let him know about her too.

“Alright. So, how if we promise that you and I will be like this until we're ready to have a special relationship?” Asked Serena as she was asking him to do a pinky promise.

Vernon was a bit shocked but he understood what Serena wanted. He also had his reasons for not dating Serena right away, as he wanted to know everything about her.

“This is too childish,” said Vernon.

“Well, if you don't want to, I'll—”

He kissed her suddenly, stopping her lips when she was talking. His lips crushed her gently and slowly, then Serena reciprocated with the passion she had.

“Is this enough to make you sure that I won't leave you, Serena?”