Selena felt a flutter of excitement as she walked beside Sam, the afternoon sun painting warm hues on the cobbled streets. Their rendezvous had gone flawlessly, and now they were stepping into a day she knew she'd never forget. Sam, with his usual effortless charm, seemed to have everything planned to perfection.
Their first stop was a charming café nestled at the corner of a quiet lane. The café exuded warmth, with its rustic wooden interiors and soft yellow lights glowing against the muted chatter of patrons. Sam held the door open, and Selena stepped in, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wrapping around her like a comforting embrace.
"Pick a spot," Sam said, gesturing around.
Selena chose a small table by the window, the kind of place she had only ever admired from a distance. She hesitated as she looked at the menu, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of the table.
"What's wrong?" Sam asked, leaning closer.
She looked up at him and smiled shyly. "I just don't want you to go overboard for me."
Sam chuckled, his easy demeanor helping her relax. "It's your day, Selena. You deserve it. Besides," he added with a wink, "I wouldn't have planned this if I didn't want to."
His words warmed her, and she allowed herself to let go, ordering a small feast that made them both laugh at its extravagance. Over the next hour, they shared food and stories, their laughter mingling with the soft hum of the café's background music.
"I don't think I've ever had such a fun birthday lunch," Selena admitted, her eyes sparkling.
"Well, we're just getting started," Sam replied, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
The mall was their next destination. Selena followed Sam curiously, unsure of what he had planned. When he stopped outside a boutique, she froze.
"Sam," she began hesitantly, "I don't think—"
"Relax," he interrupted gently, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You'll love this."
They stepped inside, and Selena was immediately overwhelmed by the racks of dresses in every color imaginable. Sam seemed unbothered, already browsing through the collection with an air of confidence.
"You'll look stunning in this," he said, holding up a soft peach dress.
Selena took it reluctantly, her cheeks flushing. As she stepped into the changing room, her nerves threatened to get the better of her. But when she emerged, Sam's expression made her pause.
"You're beautiful," he said simply, his voice sincere.
Selena's blush deepened, but a shy smile crept onto her face. Encouraged by his reaction, she tried on a few more dresses, each one drawing more praise from Sam. His genuine enthusiasm made the experience far more enjoyable than she had anticipated.
After they had picked out a dress, Sam led her to the arcade. Selena's face lit up at the sight of the colorful games and the excited chatter of other players.
"Let's try the claw machine," Sam suggested, leading her to the corner where the machine stood.
Selena laughed as he fumbled with the controls, his tongue poking out in concentration. After a few failed attempts, he finally managed to snag a prize—a small, fluffy kitten plushie.
"For you," he said proudly, handing it over like it was the most precious treasure.
Selena took it, hugging it close. "Thank you, Sam. It's adorable."
The day had been perfect so far, but Sam wasn't done. He asked Selena to wait as he disappeared into a nearby shop. She watched him through the window, her heart swelling with affection as he carefully selected something from the counter.
When he returned, he held a small box and something wiggling in his hands—a real kitten.
Selena gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. "Sam, is that—?"
"A birthday kitten," he confirmed, his grin wide.
Selena took the tiny creature into her arms, her eyes filling with tears. "I don't even know what to say," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
"You don't have to say anything," Sam replied, his tone soft.
Their final stop was a bridge that overlooked a serene river. The evening sky was painted in hues of orange and pink, the perfect backdrop for the moment Sam had planned. He set the cake he'd brought earlier on the edge of the bridge, carefully placing candles on top.
"Close your eyes," he said, taking her hands in his.
Selena hesitated but complied, the warmth of his hands grounding her.
"Now, make a wish," he encouraged.
She opened her eyes and leaned forward to blow out the candles, her heart swelling with gratitude. As she cut the cake, Sam reached for her hand, his expression serious.
"Selena," he began, "I want you to know that you're special to me. I've never met anyone like you."
Her breath caught, and she stared at him, unsure of how to respond.
"This kitten," he continued, gesturing to the tiny ball of fur nestled in her arms, "is a reminder of today. Of us. And of how much you mean to me."
Selena blinked back tears, her voice trembling as she said, "Thank you, Sam. For everything."
As they walked back, hand in hand, the city lights began to twinkle, casting a magical glow over the evening. When they reached her father's office, Sam stopped a few steps away to avoid being seen.
Before she could say goodbye, he leaned down, brushing a gentle kiss against her cheek.
"I like you, Selena," he said quietly. "You're... important to me."
Selena's cheeks flushed, her heart pounding in her chest. "I... I like you too," she admitted softly.
Sam smiled, his eyes warm. "See you tomorrow at school," he said before walking away.
Selena stood there, watching him disappear into the distance, her heart full and her mind racing with thoughts of the incredible day they'd shared.
Hello sweet readers, I was down with a viral fever ...that made the delay with the update of the chapters..I will be consistent now and hope you enjoy my work.