She felt her heart flutter as he took her hand. It was absurd how deeply she wanted him, to be with him and to have him. Her fingers caressed his in return, her smile warm and affection. They had known each other for so long and had been friends, but apparently it was more on his end. She never saw him before, not like she was seeing him now. A handsome, caring man. He made mistakes, but then they both had.

"You're more than tolerable. I am having a wonderful time." It was amazing how much she enjoyed being here. He wasn't Luke, but being across from this good man made her realize that it was preferable. She had obsessed over Luke's love for too long. She wanted to find her own happiness.

"I'm not the best at dating either, but it's not like we have to be anything other than ourselves. I already know your secrets and you know mine. And strangely, you wanted me despite it."