Echos of the past

Chapter 38

The morning began with the sound of raindrops pattering softly against the windows. Isla, standing by the kitchen sink, gazed out at the gray sky, a deep frown etched across her face. The garden she tended to so lovingly was off-limits today. The rain was too heavy for any meaningful work to be done, and it left her feeling restless and at odds with her usual routine.

Teddy sauntered into the kitchen, his hair slightly damp from a brief step outside to check the weather. He took one look at Isla’s face and knew what was bothering her.

“No gardening today, huh?” he said, trying to sound sympathetic.

Isla sighed. “No, not with this rain. I don’t know what to do with myself.”

Teddy leaned against the counter, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Well, it just so happens I have an idea. How about we go to a movie?”

Isla turned to look at him, skepticism written all over her face. “A movie? Teddy, you know I have a lot to do. I can’t just—”

He cut her off with a grin. “What exactly can you do in this weather, Isla? You said it yourself, no gardening today. Come on, a movie will be fun. We can relax, enjoy some popcorn, and forget about the rain for a while.”

Isla hesitated. She wasn’t used to taking time off from her duties, especially for something as frivolous as a movie. But the rain showed no signs of letting up, and Teddy’s enthusiasm was hard to resist. Plus, she could use a break.

“Okay,” she said finally, a small smile creeping onto her face. “You win. Let’s go to a movie.”

Teddy’s face lit up with excitement. “Great! Let’s get ready and head out. You won’t regret it, I promise.”

An hour later, they were seated in a cozy, dimly lit theater, the smell of buttery popcorn filling the air. Isla felt a strange mix of excitement and nervousness. It had been a long time since she’d been to a movie, and the idea of sitting still for a couple of hours felt almost foreign. But with Teddy by her side, she felt more at ease.

The previews began to roll, and Teddy leaned in close, his arm casually draped around the back of her seat. Isla glanced at him, catching the playful sparkle in his eyes. She couldn’t help but smile, feeling a flutter of butterflies in her stomach.

As the movie started, Teddy’s hand found hers, their fingers intertwining. Isla focused on the screen, trying to immerse herself in the storyline. But Teddy’s touch was distracting, his thumb gently stroking the back of her hand. She turned to look at him, their eyes meeting in the dim light.

“Teddy,” she whispered, her voice carrying a teasing tone, “is this your way of getting me alone in the dark where I can only focus on you?”

Teddy chuckled softly, his lips curling into a mischievous grin. “Maybe. Is it working?”

Isla rolled her eyes playfully, but she couldn’t deny the growing attraction between them. The movie seemed to fade into the background as their connection intensified. She leaned closer, her lips brushing against his in a soft, tentative kiss. Teddy responded eagerly, his hand moving to cup her cheek as the kiss deepened.

The world outside the theater ceased to exist as they lost themselves in each other. Teddy’s touch was electrifying, sending shivers down Isla’s spine. Her heart raced, her body responding to the passion between them. She wanted more, but the awareness of their public surroundings held her back.

“Teddy,” she murmured against his lips, her voice filled with longing, “we’re in a public place.”

He pulled back slightly, his eyes dark with desire. “I know, but I can’t help it. You’re irresistible.”

Isla’s cheeks flushed with heat, a mixture of embarrassment and arousal. She glanced around, noting the other patrons absorbed in the movie. Despite the darkened theater, the risk of being seen was too great. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

“We should watch the movie,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Teddy nodded, though his gaze lingered on her lips. “You’re right. But Isla, I want you to know how much I care about you. This isn’t just about the physical attraction. I really like you.”

Isla’s heart swelled with affection. “I like you too, Teddy. A lot.”

They settled back into their seats, though their hands remained intertwined. The movie continued, but Isla found it hard to concentrate. Her mind kept drifting back to Teddy, to the way his touch made her feel. She stole glances at him, catching the way his eyes flickered with unspoken promises.

When the credits finally rolled, Isla felt a mixture of relief and disappointment. She didn’t want the moment to end, but she knew they couldn’t stay in the theater forever. They stood, stretching their legs and gathering their things. Teddy took her hand, leading her out into the lobby.

“So, what did you think of the movie?” Teddy asked, his tone light and teasing.

Isla laughed softly. “Honestly, I barely watched it. I was a bit distracted.”

Teddy smirked, pulling her closer. “Good to know I had that effect on you.”

They stepped out into the rain, which had slowed to a gentle drizzle. Teddy pulled his jacket over Isla’s shoulders, shielding her from the worst of it. They walked to the car, the silence between them comfortable and filled with unspoken words.

Once inside, Teddy turned to her, his expression serious. “Isla, I meant what I said earlier. I really care about you. I don’t want to rush things, but I also don’t want to hide how I feel.”

Isla’s heart raced as she met his gaze. “I care about you too, Teddy. And I don’t want to rush either. But I want to be with you.”

Teddy’s eyes softened. “Then let’s take it slow. We have all the time in the world.”

They drove back to Isla’s house in companionable silence, the rain tapping gently against the car windows. Isla’s mind raced with thoughts of Teddy, their kiss, and the possibilities that lay ahead. She felt a warmth in her chest, a sense of hope and excitement for the future.

Back at the house, they stood on the porch, the rain creating a soothing backdrop. Teddy leaned in, his lips brushing against her forehead in a tender kiss.

“I had a great time today, Isla. Thank you for coming with me,” he said softly.

Isla smiled, her heart full. “Thank you for convincing me. It was a wonderful day.”

Teddy pulled her into a warm embrace, holding her close. “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Absolutely,” Isla replied, her voice filled with anticipation.

As Teddy drove away, Isla stood on the porch, watching the taillights disappear into the distance. She wrapped her arms around herself, a contented smile playing on her lips. The rain continued to fall, but it no longer felt like a barrier. Instead, it was a gentle reminder that even on the grayest days, there was still beauty and possibility.

Inside, Isla changed into comfortable clothes and settled onto the couch, her mind replaying the day’s events. She felt a sense of peace and happiness that she hadn’t experienced in a long time. Teddy had brought a new light into her life, and she was excited to see where their journey would lead.

As she drifted off to sleep, the sound of rain lulling her into a peaceful slumber, Isla dreamed of sunny days, blooming gardens, and the warmth of Teddy’s embrace. The future was uncertain, but with Teddy by her side, she felt ready to face whatever came her way.