Esme's gaze clung to Silas, her excitement bubbling over with every step they took in unison. Their hands, still intertwined, sent a surge of warmth spreading through her; a heat that painted her cheeks a fiery red. The thumping of her heart grew, and she feared he would sense her rapid heartbeat.
Suddenly, she snatched her hand away, breaking their connection. Silas, taken aback, stopped and looked at her, a flicker of disappointment clouding his features. He mistook her action for a sign of rejection, his expression morphing into a wounded frown. He shoved his hands into his pockets, resuming his walk with a heavy stride.
Sensing his anger, Esme stammered out an explanation, "It's just... awkward walking hand-in-hand."
"Awkward?" Silas scoffed, disbelief coloring his tone. "Why on earth would it be awkward? You're still my girlfriend, aren't you?"
