Mystery Of Why The Universe We Created Explodes

Chapter 4

Rhys's gentle touch ignited a trail of warmth along my spine as his palms cradled my shoulder blades. The subtle pressure guided me forward, his presence a comforting shield.

"This way," he whispered, his breath whispering against my ear, sending shivers down my neck. I followed, my feet moving in sync with his, as he steered me through the winding path.

With each step, Rhys's grip on my shoulders remained steady, a reassuring anchor, as if promising to navigate the uncertain terrain ahead.

He nudged me toward the woods, the trees' whispers and shadows beckoning like a secret kept. But I dug in my heels, eyes locked on his, a silent question mark. The sunlight filtering through the canopy above cast a latticework of doubts on his face, as if the woods themselves were whispering warnings.

His gaze held mine, a spark of mischief igniting within their depths. The trees seemed to lean in, their branches tangling around us like skeletal fingers, urging us toward the unknown. The familiar path behind us receded, leaving only the mystery of the woods, and Rhys enigmatic smile.

"Where are we going?" I asked, but he just gives me his toothy grin and made me face the road again, and started pushing me.

"Stop asking. You'll know it later. And I'm sure you'll love it."

I tried asking him but to no avail he just shakes his head and mouthed 'no' while shrugging his shoulder. I gave up and got along with whatever plan that's inside his mind. We passed some old and Victorian styled houses along the way. It was almost twenty minutes of walking when I noticed we did a turn to our left, toward a narrow way that lead to the forest.

"Where are we going, Rhys?"

Towerling trees enveloped us, their gnarled branches like nature's skeletal fingers reaching for the sky. Shadows danced, hiding secrets and potential terrors. I gripped Rhys's hand, my fingers intertwining with his as fear's icy tendrils wrapped around my heart.

The forest floor, a tapestry of rustling leaves and snapping twigs, seemed to whisper warnings. Every step felt like a dare, inviting unseen dangers to emerge. My palm grew slick with sweat as I tugged Rhys back, my eyes scanning the darkness for signs of movement.

His gaze met mine, a flash of reassurance in the midst of uncertainty. Yet, his footsteps slowed, hesitant, as if the forest's eerie silence was seeping into his resolve. The trees loomed, sentinels guarding secrets, their stillness a reminder that we were trespassers in this domain.

"Are we gonna go inside?" I asked.

Rhys's soothing words, laced with amusement, eased the tension in my shoulders. His laughter, a low, gentle rumble, calmed my racing thoughts.

"Chill, Kyle," he whispered, his breath warm against my ear. "I scouted ahead last week. No predators lurking, I promise."

His hands, still cradling my shoulder blades, offered a reassuring squeeze. "We'll stick to the edge, avoid the wildwood's depths. Just relax, okay?"

The forest, sensing my unease, seemed to whisper reassurances of its own – the rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the creek's steady heartbeat. Rhys's guidance and the symphony of nature's sounds slowly unraveled my worries.

His carefree laughter, a joyful cascade, clashed with the disquiet simmering within me. His playful touch, a ruffle of my hair, usually a comfort, now felt jarring. I lagged behind, my gaze darting into the shadows, as the underbrush seemed to whisper secrets.

Every step, deliberate and measured, was a testament to my unease. The forest floor, once a soft carpet, now seemed to writhe beneath my feet. Leaves crunched, twigs snapped, and the creek's gentle song transformed into a discordant hum. His oblivious joy only heightened my tension, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within. My heart, a racing drum, pounded out a warning, as if sensing hidden dangers lurking just beyond the treeline.

A heap of leaves caught my attention, its pyramid shape sending a shiver down my spine. Memories of grade school warnings resurfaced: snakes nesting in dried leaves, camouflaged and waiting. My heart skipped a beat as I skirted the mound, my gaze darting to Rhys's retreating back.

"Rhys, wait!" I called out, my voice barely above a whisper.

He turned, his grin faltering as he took in my tense expression. "What's wrong?"

I nodded toward the leaf mound, my eyes locked on it, half-expecting a serpent to slither out. Rhys's expression transformed from amusement to understanding, and he backtracked to my side to reassure me that everything was all good

I ducked beneath the outstretched branches, their twisted limbs like nature's tentacles reaching for us. Rhys's pace suddenly faltered, and I thought he needed a breather. But as he turned to face me, his smile transformed the forest's somber atmosphere.

The dappled light danced across his features, illuminating the warmth in his eyes. My own heartbeat slowed, synchronizing with the forest's gentle rustle, as I met his gaze.

Rhys's smile grew, creasing his cheeks, and I sensed a secret, a surprise, or a revelation brewing. His eyes sparkled, and I leaned in, my curiosity piqued, as the forest's silence became a palpable anticipation.

"We're here," he declared, lifting his arms up, gesturing to the surroundings. I let out a sigh of relief.

As Rhys spread his arms wide, the clearing unfolded before us like a hidden treasure. The trees parted, revealing a tranquil oasis, bathed in warm, golden light.

My pent-up breath escaped in a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness," I echoed, feeling tension melt from my shoulders.

The clearing's serenity enveloped us: a babbling brook, vibrant wildflowers, and soft moss beneath our feet. Rhys's smile, radiant and welcoming, mirrored the peaceful atmosphere. For a moment, the world beyond receded, leaving only the gentle rustle of leaves, the warmth of the sun, and the comforting presence of Rhys beside me.

He offered his hand to me. His outstretched hands, a gesture of reassurance, beckoned me closer. I searched his eyes, seeking answers to unspoken questions, but found only warmth and sincerity. With a deep breath, I placed my hands in his, feeling the gentle pressure of his palms.

A silent understanding passed between us. His shoulder lifted, a subtle invitation to trust, and I nodded, my grip on his hands tightening. The creek's soothing melody enveloped us, a promise of serenity.

"Welcome to my favorite place," he whispered, his voice infused with a sense of sanctuary. His eyes sparkled, reflecting the beauty of this hidden haven. As I stood there, enveloped in his warmth, the forest transformed, its secrets and wonders unfolding before me.

I didn't seem to understand him at first because all I saw was some immense trees and haphazard fallen branches around but when he pulled me towards him and then he moved to my side, I was dumbfounded to the scenery I saw. I never seen this place before.

A crystal cascade burst forth between the ancient rocks, creating a serene waterfall. I peered into the descent, discovering a tranquil creek nestled below. The water's glassy surface revealed submerged rocks, their contours softened by the gentle current.

Neither shallow nor deep, the creek's soothing depths beckoned. Sunbeams danced across the ripples, casting a dazzling array of diamonds on the creek bed. The effect was mesmerizing, as if the water itself was alive, shimmering with an otherworldly essence.

This hidden sanctuary seemed tailor-made for a languid summer afternoon, inviting us to surrender to its tranquility. The soft gurgle of the creek, the warmth of the sun, and the promise of refreshing waters converged, creating an oasis of relaxation.

"This place is wonderful," I astoundingly said.

I didn't knew there was a place like this hidden inside this woods.

"How did you even found this place?"

My gaze remained captive to the water's allure, its crystalline beauty hypnotic. Regret whispered in my mind, if only I'd known this haven awaited, I'd have packed a change of clothes. The temptation to plunge into the cool, clear depths was almost unbearable.

Rhys's chuckle broke the spell, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "No extras, no worries," he said, his voice low and reassuring. "We'll make do."

His words hinted at a freedom I hadn't considered – shedding inhibitions, embracing spontaneity. The creek's serene song seemed to echo his sentiment, beckoning me to let go.

"I found this place when I was nine years old," he said. His face was crestfallen when he said it. And again, I wanted to asked him but contained myself for doing so, but seems like I don't need to asked him anymore.

"That's when my Dad hit me, for the first time ever. I run out of our house without knowing where to go. I didn't know where I'm going but all I thought was to run, away from him," he took a deep breath.

"I realized that I entered a forest but that didn't made me stop. I continue to run, thinking to encounter some wild aggressive animals that might kill me. That way, I'll be gone forever. But I stumbled upon this place when I trip and fall over there," he pointed towards the creek.

"I'm in love the first time I laid my eyes to this picturesque," he said, starring to the water with a smile but I can see sadness in his eyes.

A different kind of emotion I can't name hit me. I drew near him and touched his shoulder. A sympathetic emotion clogged in my throat.

"Why did he hit you?" I said before I can stop myself.

Our gazes collided, mine faltering initially, before locking onto his. The sorrow etched on his face was a palpable ache, a weight that pressed upon my chest. A lone tear betrayed his composure, trickling down his cheek before he swiftly erased it.

His Adam's apple bobbed as he swallowed hard, the sound of his steady breath a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within. The creek's gentle melody seemed to swell, a poignant counterpoint to the anguish welling up in his eyes. My heart resonated with his pain, a symphony of empathy and concern.

"I was in fourth grade, when I got home, I told my Dad that I had a boyfriend. Silly me," he laughed forlornly.

Another tear escaped his eyes and I badly wanted to wipe it away but I don't want him to feel any less of himself so I let him do it on his own, I didn't took my hand off his shoulder, though. I didn't asked him any further ‘cause I already had an idea of what happened next.

When I came out to my family, my brother also didn't took it easily—up until now. He almost hit me with his fist, good thing Dad caught his arm, restraining him from smashing my face. Directly, I looked at my Father and prepared myself from seeing his raging face just like my brother but all I saw was understanding, he understand me. He accepted who I am, same as my Mother. They hugged and told me they're always there when I needed somebody to talk. I was happy and saddened at the same time. Seeing your own brother looked at you disgustingly was something I couldn't imagine. Gone was the brother I once adored and looked up. He changed into something spiteful and virulent. I can't blame him, though. I can't imagine how he felt seeing me turned into something like a person who once molested him when he's still young. A person who he despised.

Since then, everytime he saw me I can always hear homophobic slurs coming from him. I was hurt, sure, but I got to learn on how to shrugged it off like it's nothing, like he's someone I don't know, someone who's not important. I was kidding myself when I said it's nothing, of course, it's something. He's my brother and I loved him. It has to be something, right? The venomous words cut deep, a relentless barrage of homophobic slurs echoing through our home. Each barb pierced, but I learned to mask the pain, donning a facade of indifference. "It's nothing," I lied to myself, desperate to numb the hurt. But the truth seeped through the cracks: his venom mattered. He was my brother, my flesh and blood, once my confidant and friend. Love and longing tangled with anguish, a toxic knot in my chest. I yearned for the brother I lost, the one who shared laughter and secrets. Now, his scornful gaze and poisonous words reduced me to a shadow of myself. The ache persisted, a reminder that family can both heal and harm.

The creek's melancholic serenade enveloped us, a haunting lullaby that underscored the fragile silence between us. Rhys's profile, etched against the serene backdrop, seemed chiseled from the shadows themselves. His eyes, dark and profound, reflected the turbulent depths within. The trees, sentinels of secrets, stood watch as we stood there, suspended in the stillness. The gentle current stirred, as if whispering truths only the water understood. The air vibrated with unspoken emotions, the weight of unfinished conversations.

Rhys's jaw clenched, a subtle tremor betraying the turmoil beneath his surface. His fists, clenched and relaxed, rhythmed the creek's soothing cadence. The sunlight filtering through the canopy above cast an elegiac glow, as if illuminating the fragility of our moment.

"You know what? Let's just swim this sadness away," he said, gone was the mirthless aura he unlooses.

"We don't have any extra clothes, Rhys."

The shadows receded as Rhys's smile kindled, a radiant spark that ignited the atmosphere. The heavy emotions, once a palpable fog, dissipated like mist in the sun. The creek's gentle voice, a soothing serenade, swelled in harmony with his warmth.

His lips, curved and inviting, transformed the landscape. The trees, once sentinels of secrets, now stood as witnesses to our fragile joy. The breeze, a gentle confidant, carried away the remnants of sorrow, leaving only the promise of possibility.

Rhys's eyes, bright and unguarded, shone like stars in a cleared sky. His smile, a masterful brush strokes, repainted the moment, infusing it with vibrant color and life. Time suspended, the world narrowed to the space between us, where hope and beauty blossomed.

"You know this place is hidden, right?" I did know what he's thinking right now.

The secluded clearing, a sanctuary of ancient trees, enveloped us in secrecy. Towering trunks, sturdy and unyielding, formed a natural barrier against prying eyes. Yet, despite the solitude, my skin prickled with self-consciousness.

The creek's gentle melody couldn't soothe my unease as I hesitated, anchored to modesty. Only Beau, my faithful feline companion, had ever witnessed my unguarded form. The thought of shedding inhibitions, of exposing vulnerabilities, sent a shiver down my spine.

Rhys's expectant gaze, warm and understanding, didn't press me. Instead, it seemed to acknowledge the fragile boundaries I'd erected. His patience was a gentle breeze, calming the turbulence within. Still, I wavered, suspended between longing and restraint.

I glanced around, taking in our secluded surroundings. Towering trees encircled us, their leafy branches weaving a natural canopy above. The tranquility of the spot was undeniable, yet my unease lingered.

I wasn't comfortable disrobing in front of others, no matter how serene the setting.Just as I pondered this, a rustling sound broke the silence beside me. I turned to find Rhys shedding his clothes with ease. The clink of his belt hitting the ground was followed by the soft thud of his shoes. The soft clink of metal on stone, signaled Rhys's surrender to the moment. My gaze drifted, hesitant, then settled on his unguarded form. The creek's soothing voice seemed to swell, as if urging acceptance.

My eyes widened as Rhys stood before me, unapologetically naked. His confidence was striking, and for a moment, I forgot my own apprehensions.

As Rhys stood before me, the sunlight danced across his physique, accentuating his broad shoulders and defined muscles. My gaze wandered, drawn to his masculine form.

Rhys's eyes, calm and unapologetic, met mine, his expression a silent reassurance. His vulnerability, a gift of trust, dissolved the space between us. The trees, sentinels of secrets, stood witness to our mutual surrender.

The warm light dancing across his skin illuminated the contours of his form, a map of strengths and scars. My heart, a hesitant drumbeat, synchronized with the creek's gentle rhythm, as I pondered the beauty of his nakedness.

My eyes settled on his genitals, and I couldn't help but stare. His circumcised p***s, larger than mine, caught my attention. I estimated it to be around eight inches, impressive in both length and girth.

Heat rose to my face as I realized I was openly gazing. I forced my eyes upward, meeting Rhys's gaze. His face had turned a deep scarlet, betraying his embarrassment.

Despite his obvious discomfort, my attention drifted back to his crotch. To my surprise, his member had begun to stir, swelling to half-hardness.

Rhys's eyes locked onto mine, his expression a mix of surprise and vulnerability. I sensed a flutter in my chest, unsure how to react.

The air was charged with tension, our mutual awareness palpable. I felt drawn to him, my gaze still fixed on his partially aroused state.

Rhys's voice, low and husky, broke the silence. "Uh, sorry about that."

I managed a nervous smile, feeling my own face flush. "It's okay."

"Stop staring, you're turning me on," Rhys said, his voice low and playful, yet laced with a hint of embarrassment.

I jerked my gaze away, mentally reprimanding myself for ogling him. My face burned with mortification.

Rhys cleared his throat, breaking the awkward silence. "I'll wait for you in the water."

With that, he strode toward the water's edge, leaving me to reconcile my own comfort level. I hesitated, weighing my options, as Rhys slipped into the water with a fluid motion and refreshing splash, he sprinted toward the inviting water, creating a massive splash that drenched me. Water droplets glistened on my skin, refreshing me.

I gazed at Rhys, mesmerized by his fluid movements in the water. His body seemed to merge with the liquid canvas, becoming an extension of the lagoon itself.

With each stroke, he glided effortlessly, his muscles rippling beneath his skin like the gentle lapping of waves. His swimming was a symphony of grace and power.

Rhys's connection to the water was almost ethereal, as if he'd transcended human form to become a aquatic creature. His limbs sliced through the surface with barely a ripple, propelling him forward with ease.

I watched, entranced, as he executed a flawless freestyle, his body undulating like a dolphin. The water caressed his skin, accentuating the definition of his muscles.

His eyes sparkled with joy, and a hint of a smile played on his lips, radiating contentment. In this moment, Rhys was one with the water, his essence intertwined with its fluid embrace.

Time stood still as I admired his aquatic ballet, my own worries dissolving with each passing moment. Rhys's harmony with the water was contagious, calming my mind and soothing my soul.

Initially, I would hesitate, unsure about joining him. But watching Rhys revel in the water's embrace, his joy infectious, changed my mind. I craved a moment of carefree abandon.

I took a deep breath, shedding my inhibitions. "Why not?" I murmured, smiling.

I began to undress, my movements slow and deliberate. Rhys's eyes met mine, sparkling with anticipation. I hesitated, fumbling with my belt buckle. My palms slick with sweat, my hands trembled as I slid my jeans down. Exposed, I felt vulnerable.

Rhys's gaze shifted to me, his eyes locking onto mine. I braced myself for mocking comments or snickers, but instead, I met his calm, encouraging expression.

My body-consciousness surfaced, comparing my lean frame to Rhys's chiseled physique. His confidence was evident, unhindered by self-doubt. His eyes were now on me. I mentally prepared for any mock remarks, but I heard nothing. I am naked in front of him, just like the day I was born.

Sensing my unease, Rhys waded closer, extending a reassuring hand. "Hey, it's okay. Come in."

"Come over here," Rhys said, his voice low and inviting.

His gentle tone dispelled my anxiety, and I grasped his hand, feeling a spark of connection.

I approached him hesitantly, my legs trembling. Taking his hand, I felt a surge of reassurance.

Rhys guided me toward the water's edge, the cool liquid lapping at our toes. As I dipped my feet in, the chilliness tickled my skin. With a gentle tug, Rhys encouraged me to submerge myself fully. The water enveloped me, its soothing calmness seeping into my pores. His grip remained firm, guiding me deeper.

"Relax," he whispered, releasing my hand. "You're safe."

The moment I relaxed, Rhys's warm hand cradled the nape of my neck. His touch was comforting, dispelling my anxiety.

I exhaled deeply, releasing pent-up worries. My eyelids fluttered closed, letting serenity wash over me.

Rhys's whispered words caressed my ear: "You're beautiful, Kyle."

My heart skipped a beat. No mockery, no judgment – just genuine appreciation.

In this tranquil moment, I felt accepted, cherished. Rhys's kindness and warmth enveloped me, calming my soul.

As I floated, weightless, Rhys's hand remained on my neck, a reassuring anchor.

Rhys's hand drifted downward, tracing gentle paths along my spine. His fingertips danced across my skin, leaving trails of warmth. Each touch ignited a spark, sending shivers through my body.

As his fingers skimmed my lower back, I tensed, anticipating their trajectory. My heart raced, unsure of what to expect. His palm grazed the curve of my buttocks, and I shuddered, my nerves alight.

A flutter rose in my chest, a mix of excitement and trepidation. My mind whispered questions: Why was I allowing this? Why did his touch feel so different?

But my body responded, relaxing into his caress. The water's warmth and Rhys's gentle exploration lulled me into a state of surrender.

His fingers lingered, tracing the contours of my skin. I sensed his gaze on me, but couldn't bring myself to meet his eyes.

"Rhys?" I whispered, uncertainty creeping in.

"Shh, I've got you," he replied, his voice soothing. "You're safe."

His reassurance calmed my doubts, and I let myself drift into the sensation.

Time stood still as Rhys's touch explored my body, sparking emotions I couldn't quite grasp. The vulnerability was exhilarating, yet unsettling.

In this moment, I was lost in the unknown, trusting Rhys to guide me through uncharted waters.

His hand was now moving, skimming my skin and I cautiously felt it going downwards. Every touched of his skin lit a fire in my body that gives tingling sensation inside. I shuddered when his hand reached my ass cheeks. If it was in a different situation, I would probably push him away, but I didn't know why I was letting him do this.

Rhys's fingers wrapped around my buttock, applying gentle pressure. I felt a jolt, and he gasped, his breath escaping in a sharp hiss.

The warmth of his body radiated through the water, enveloping me like a gentle embrace. I sensed his excitement, his arousal palpable.

My eyes fluttered open, locking onto Rhys's. His auburn orbs seemed to darken, the intensity growing with each passing moment.

His gaze held mine, a magnetic connection forming every seconds that passed. The air was charged with tension, our bodies drawn together by an unseen force.

Rhys's pupils dilated, his irises deepening to a rich, burnished copper. His eyes burned with desire, the intensity making my heart race.

I felt my own body respond, my skin prickling with goosebumps. The water's coldness was nothing compare to the heat building between us.

Time suspended, our gazes entwined. The world narrowed to this singular moment, our connection crackling with electricity.

Rhys's chest rose and fell, his breathing shallow. I sensed his restraint, his self-control wavering.

Our eyes remained locked, the silence between us heavy with anticipation. I wondering what would happen next, this feels so f*****g good.

Rhys's gaze drifted repeatedly to my lips, his eyes lingering before returning to mine. The tension between us was palpable.

With deliberate slowness, he leaned in, closing the gap between our faces. I sensed his intention, my heart racing in anticipation.

Emboldened, I met him halfway, our lips almost touching. The air vibrated with expectation.

Rhys's eyes locked onto mine, searching for permission. I nodded imperceptibly, my consent silent but clear.

Our lips brushed together, a gentle, exploratory touch. The connection sparked, sending shivers down my spine.

Rhys's mouth melded to mine, his lips soft and warm. The kiss deepened, our breaths intertwining.

Time stopped as we savored the moment, lost in the intimacy of our embrace.

The world around us melted away, leaving only the two of us, suspended in this moment of connection.

As our lips touched, a spontaneous, embarrassing moan escaped my mouth. Rhys's eyes fluttered closed, his face tilting to deepen the kiss.

We froze, lips locked, for a few fleeting seconds. Then, with tender pressure, Rhys's mouth began to move. His lips caressed mine, coaxing me to respond.

I mirrored his gentle motions, our lips dancing together. The kiss grew, intensity building.

Rhys's tongue brushed against mine, sending shivers down my spine. I welcomed the invasion, our tongues entwining.

The world around us dissolved, leaving only the sensation of our lips touching, our hearts beating as one.

Time lost meaning as we surrendered to the kiss.

I wrapped my arms around his neck while reciprocating to the kiss. Both of his hands are now in my ass, squeezing and groping that made me saw a pomp of blazing fire. My body shivered when I felt his hardening member pokes the inner of my thigh, mine was hitting his sac. We are holding on to each other, afraid one of us might disappear.

One of his fingers grazed the crease of my ass. I released a sonorous moan that made him chuckles. He thought he's doing something good to my body ‘cause he repeated it again and again.

We're now both a moaning and grinding mess, too drowned to think straight. He pressed his finger to my hole but not totally entering. My knees weakened when he did it. I almost sinks under water but he held my hips firmly and carefully lift me. I buckled my legs through his hips, this way our crotch were fastened securely. He adjusted our position, looking for a perfect way to situates. Our body found a rhythm and soon enough we're dancing ferociously trying to reached the highest point of copulate excitement.

AWKWARDLY, we put on our clothes when the post-coital haze subsides. The woods feels smaller now, the air thick with unspoken words. Every time our eyes accidentally meet, we quickly look away, as if the intensity of the moment might burn us.

As we finally started walking back, the forest no longer felt like an enemy but a place that had witnessed our laughter, our vulnerability, and our newfound camaraderie. And though I wasn't keen on another forest adventure anytime soon, I realized that with him, even the unexpected detours could become something worth remembering.

The walk back home is a silent journey, each step echoing the uncertainty between us. The air is cool, but my skin still feels warm from where his touch lingered.

We reach the front of our house, the place that has always been my sanctuary– well, not really, but tonight it feels like unfamiliar territory. The silence stretches, almost unbearable, until we both speak at the same time, our voices overlapping in a rush of words and emotions.

"Take care."

"Until next time."

I cleared my throat awkwardly, the lingering aftertaste of our parting words still fresh. He scratched his nape, a nervous habit I'd come to recognize. What did he mean by "next time"? I couldn't tell if he was being hopeful or just filling the void left by our brief encounter. One thing was certain: I wasn't keen on a repeat performance in the middle of the forest.

"You first."

"You first."

Our voices overlapped, creating an echo that hung between the trees, as if the situation itself found humor in our synchronized awkwardness. We locked eyes, the tension dissolving into shared amusement. In that moment, the absurdity of the situation caught up with us, and we both burst out laughing. The sound reverberated through the forest, a blend of relief and something unspoken, something not yet ready to be explored.

We stood there, catching our breath, still chuckling as the last rays of sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting a golden hue on everything. The memory of our unexpected detour and the panic it had caused felt distant now, replaced by the warmth of this moment.

"I can't believe we got lost out there," I said between laughs, wiping a tear from my eye. "Next time, we're sticking to the main trails."

"Agreed," he replied, still grinning. "But hey, we made it out, didn't we? And we have one hell of a story to tell."

"That we do," I said, feeling a connection deepen between us. It was in these spontaneous, unplanned moments that true bonds were forged. We had navigated the unknown together, stumbled and found our way back, and in the process, discovered a shared resilience.

"Gonna head home," he said, voice softening. "Until next time."

"Yeah," I agreed, my heart lighter. "Until next time."

"God, this is awkward." He said. I agreed, totally awkward.

"‘Til next time, then." I nodded ‘cause I don't have anything to say. I know what we did awhile ago was a one-time thing and it won't happen again. It's better to bury it now than later. I waved my hand when he was about to turn a corner. He waves back. Immediately, I got inside of our house.