As the next song began, Eliza's dancing grew more enthusiastic. She threw her hands in the air, her body moving with abandon.
Vaughn watched her out of the corner of his eye, his heart swelling with affection. Her happiness was a beautiful thing, a beacon of light in his often dark and intense world.
Eliza caught Vaughn watching her and leaned over, planting a quick kiss on his cheek. "Thank you, Vaughn," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine gratitude.
"For what?" he asked, his tone curious.
"For everything," she replied, her eyes shining with sincerity. "For being here, for making me laugh, for just... being you."
Vaughn's heart skipped a beat, her words touching something deep within him. He reached over and took her hand, squeezing it gently. "Always, Eliza," he said, his voice low and earnest. "I'll always be here for you."
They drove on in comfortable silence, the music still playing softly in the background.
