The Last Time I Loved Him (Autumn and Ryan)
Chapter 46

Chapter 13

I chased after Snowball, running toward the light. When I got closer, I realized it was a giant hot air balloon, surrounded by a circle of fairy lights around the basket. Theodore was holding Snowball, slowly approaching me through the glow, looking like an angel. He took my hand and led me into the hot air balloon. With a snap of his fingers, we began to ascend, drifting over the vast ocean, gazing down at the coastal town lit up against the night.

Turning to look at Theodore, I found him already watching me- who knows for how long. His eyes held no trace of the scenery, as if I were the only thing in them. We just looked at each other, neither of us saying a word.

Then, suddenly, fireworks burst in the sky not far away, blooming like vibrant flowers against the night. The colorful display blended with the starlit sky, painting the most beautiful picture imaginable. As the fireworks sparkled above us, I heard Theodore say, "Rosalie, I like you. Will you be with me?"

Seeing his serious yet slightly cautious expression, I smiled, wrapped my arms around his neck, and kissed him. A happiness I'd never felt before filled every corner of my heart. So, this was what it felt like to be secretly loved by someone.

On the third day after we made our relationship official, Theodore and I returned to New Orleans to celebrate my mother's birthday. I hadn't expected, though, to run into Stephen at my house.