Various frosted heart-shaped cookies lay across the counter as the new couple stepped past the kitchen toward the front door. Friends had easily gathered for a Valentine’s Day cookie decorating party, thrown together for the sole purpose of seeing him again. A third date. Fingers entwined with hers as she reached for the door, the cool handle contrasting the warmth of his hand.

Bare feet padded onto the doormat, the icy breeze floating through her blue silk top, prickling her skin. Would it come? A squeeze of the hand, seconds slowed but still promised to pass too fleetingly. The door closed, the damp pavement from a light shower sending shivers up her spine—warmth emanating from his touch chasing them away.

Thoughts galloped through her mind. Was it possible? The words pounded through her. As the wind whipped across her legging-dressed knees, she pushed the nagging recitation down, leaving only a dull roar in its place.

They approached his old, brown car; it got him from one place to another, to her, that’s all that mattered. She gazed at the stars, brighter after the rain. Twisting his hand in hers, she reached for the other. Light shone down on them from above, his chocolate eyes catching their gleam. Ripples of warmth descended from head to toe, wrapping her first in an illusory blanket, then capturing her in strong arms, the aroma of almond frosting mixed with spicy cologne causing both comfort and frenzy within.

The third date.

Small hands lay lightly on his chest, her eyes meeting his again. Unimportant words flowed from her mouth. School. Work. The soft silk of her blouse skimmed across her back where his hands caressed almost imperceptibly. The lateness of the night worked against them, the other guests long since departed. Fingertips brushed against her cheek, auburn hair now resting behind her ear.

Conversation ceased as his gaze pierced her own. Strong, yet soft, questioning. She eased closer, head tipping up. As his head lowered, she raised herself on tiptoes, and bodies pressed together as lips parted. The first kiss. Brief. Soft. Tantalizing. His grip tightened, and she welcomed it. Resting her head near his ear, energy pulsed through her, setting the whisper free. “I love you.”

Silence surrounded them as he pulled her closer, the anticipation for his response filling her bosom.

“You’re awesome!”