When the doorbell rang, my heart fluttered. I straightened my shirt, smoothing it down as if that would somehow ease the nervous energy thrumming through me. I had prepared for this moment, replaying it in my mind countless times, imagining Kennan stepping through the door, greeted by the aroma of a delicious meal and the warmth of my welcoming smile.
Kennan stood on the other side, hands shoved deep into his pockets, an expression of mild curiosity on his face. He had a way of making any casual moment feel charged, and my stomach twisted with excitement mixed with anxiety.
“Hey! Come on in!” I said, my voice a bit too bright, as if I were trying to convince myself more than him.
“Hi,” he replied, glancing around my modest apartment. His tone was nonchalant, but I could see him taking
