Ethan

I waited as long as I could before heading over to Adeline's house the next morning. After tossing and turning for hours, I managed maybe a few hours of sleep, with Beast curled up beside me. The truth was, without Adeline, neither of us slept well. I felt a burning desire to see her, a fierce determination igniting my heart. This was it—today was the day I put my plan into action to win her over. I needed her to see that it was more than just friendship; I wanted her in a way I had never wanted anyone else.

As I drove through town, my mind flickered back to the previous morning, where we had tentatively agreed to start fresh, but I knew I had to show her I wasn't going to hide her or run away again. If I was going to run, it would be into her arms. I also had to keep her safe from the person who had attacked her. I had a few leads I was working on, but I didn't want to worry her until I was sure.

Pulling up to her house, I couldn't help but smile. The quaint cottage, painted in white and grey, was a perfect representation of Adeline herself. It had been built by her grandfather for her grandmother and was surrounded by vibrant flowers and a hidden pumpkin patch in the backyard. Strings of lights twinkled around the porch, casting a warm glow over the decorations that celebrated her love for Halloween. It was a home that radiated warmth and comfort, and I could see a future here with her—dogs, kids, laughter echoing through the halls.

Shit. I was starting to think about kids. This was new territory for me, and honestly, it scared me a little. But for Adeline, I would lay the world at her feet to make her happy. She deserved love, joy, and a life free from judgment. The town's gossip was relentless, and I intended to shield her from it, showing the world that she was mine.

Getting out of the truck and letting Beast hop out beside me, I noted it was around 10 a.m. While I had been up since 7, I knew she might still be asleep after a long night with her friends. The thought of her smiling face made my heart race. Knocking on the door, I waited, listening for any sounds of movement inside.

A few moments later, the door swung open, revealing Abby and Bonnie, both wearing playful smirks.

"Well, well, what brings you here, Sheriff?" Bonnie purred, leaning against the doorframe.

"I came to see my woman. Is she awake?" I asked, trying to sound casual, but I couldn't hide the urgency in my voice.

"She's still sleeping, but we'll give you some time alone with her." Bonnie's expression shifted slightly as she crossed her arms. "But be warned, Ethan: if you hurt her again, we'll both kick your ass. Got it?"

"I won't," I said firmly. "I know I have a lot to make up for, but I want to start that now. I won't run again, and I won't let her be judged by this town."

Bonnie and Abby exchanged glances, and Abby finally nodded. "Alright. Just remember she deserves the world."

As they left, I took a deep breath and locked the door behind me, my heart pounding with anticipation. Beast padded into the living room, his tail wagging as he sniffed around for breakfast. I made my way up the stairs toward Adeline's bedroom, my mind racing with thoughts of how to show her just how serious I was about us.

As I stepped into her room, my breath caught in my throat. Adeline was still asleep, her hair splayed across the pillow, looking like an angel. I approached the bed, unable to resist the urge to admire her. She looked peaceful, a soft smile gracing her lips even in her sleep.

I couldn't help but chuckle as I remembered how she had hugged my pillow, clutching it like it was me. I gently slipped into bed beside her, feeling the familiar warmth radiate from her body. As I wrapped my arms around her waist and pulled her closer, she stirred slightly, letting out a contented sigh.

"Ethan..." she murmured, her voice still thick with sleep.

"Yeah, pumpkin?" I whispered, smiling at the way her face lit up with a sleepy grin.

"I'm glad you're here," she said softly, her eyes fluttering open for just a moment before closing again.

"Me too," I replied, my heart swelling at the affection in her voice.

I held her close, and for a moment, the world faded away. The chaos, the worries of the town, the threats hanging over her head—they all felt distant when I was with her. Adeline snuggled deeper into my chest, and I knew I would do whatever it took to keep her safe and happy.

Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author's preferred platform and support their work!

Just as I started to drift off, she stirred again, this time more awake.

"Did you sleep okay?" she asked, lifting her head slightly to look at me.

"Not really. I missed you," I admitted, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

"Me too," she whispered, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink.

Before I could respond, she closed her eyes again, leaning into me. I could feel the tension in my body ease as she relaxed against me. Maybe we would have that talk about what we both wanted soon.

For now, I was just grateful to be with her. I closed my eyes, allowing the rhythm of her breath to lull me back to sleep. I wouldn't allow anyone or anything to come between us again.

**** ****** *******

Adeline

The sun streamed through my bedroom window, casting warm golden rays across the room, yet I lingered in the cozy cocoon of blankets and Ethan's lingering scent. I had woken up with a smile, knowing he had been there beside me, but as I turned over, the pillow was empty, and the warmth of his body was a distant memory.

Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I glanced at the clock—it was already past 11 a.m. I had meant to get up early and get ready for the day, but I couldn't resist the allure of lying in bed a little longer, basking in the afterglow of his affection.

With a sigh, I threw off the covers and swung my legs over the side of the bed. Beast wagged his tail and jumped up beside me, offering his usual morning enthusiasm. "Alright, buddy, let's get going," I said, scratching behind his ears.

I padded to the bathroom, splashing cool water on my face, trying to shake off the lingering sleepiness. As I brushed my teeth, my mind wandered to last night's conversation with Ethan. The way he looked at me, the way he held me—everything felt right. He had promised me a fresh start, and deep down, I believed him. But a flutter of uncertainty crept in. Was I ready to fully open my heart to him again?

The thought of the Pumpkin Patch Gathering tonight sent a thrill of excitement through me. I wanted it to be perfect—not just for the town, but for Ethan and me. I pictured us walking hand in hand among the colorful pumpkins, surrounded by laughter and the smell of autumn spices. I wanted him to see how much I appreciated him being there, how much I cared.

After a quick shower, I dressed in a cozy sweater adorned with pumpkins and my favorite jeans. Looking in the mirror, I took a moment to admire my reflection. My hair was tousled, but I liked the carefree look. I reached for my lipstick and added a pop of color to my lips, thinking about how Ethan might react when he saw me.

As I tied up my hair into a messy bun, my phone buzzed on the dresser. I rushed over, my heart racing as I picked it up. It was a text from Bonnie.

Bonnie: Can't wait for tonight! Are you ready to show off your man?

I grinned at the message. They had been so supportive of my relationship with Ethan. He may not have been around for a decade, but he fit perfectly into my life. And as much as I was excited about tonight, I was also anxious.

Adeline: Ready as I'll ever be!

I hit send and took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. The gathering would be a big deal—lots of people, laughter, and memories to be made. I wanted to feel confident, but the thought of judgment lingered in the back of my mind. Would people accept Ethan and me as a couple? Or would they just see the Crane name and judge him for it?

I decided to shake off the worry and focus on the positives. I quickly made breakfast, pouring some kibble for Beast before tossing together some scrambled eggs and toast for myself. As I sat at the kitchen table, I mentally ran through everything I needed for the gathering: a warm scarf, my favorite boots, and the small basket I planned to fill with pumpkin-flavored treats.

After breakfast, I cleaned up and took Beast for a quick walk. The crisp autumn air was refreshing, and I allowed myself to imagine how the night might unfold. Would Ethan hold my hand as we walked through the patch? Would we carve pumpkins together later, laughing as we tried to make silly faces?

As we strolled through the neighborhood, the vibrant fall leaves crunched under my feet, and the familiar sights felt comforting. We passed by other houses adorned with festive decorations, and I couldn't help but smile at the thought of joining in the fun with Ethan.

Once we returned home, I checked the clock again. I had a few hours left to prepare, and I wanted to make sure everything was just right. I picked up my phone and texted Ethan.

Adeline: Excited for tonight! Can't wait to show you off!

I smiled at the thought of his reaction. I wanted him to know how much he meant to me, and how grateful I was for his presence in my life. Just then, my phone chimed again.

Ethan: You have no idea how much I'm looking forward to it. Just you wait!

I could practically feel the heat radiating from his words. My heart raced as I thought about him holding me close, his breath warm against my neck. The anticipation built within me, and I knew I was ready for whatever tonight had in store for us.

After a few more moments of preparation, I stood back and surveyed my work. The house felt alive with the spirit of Halloween, and I hoped it would reflect just how much I loved this time of year and all the traditions that came with it.

I glanced at Beast, who had found a sunny spot on the living room floor. "Alright, big guy, let's go get ready for our big night."

As I took one last look around, I felt a surge of hope. Tonight was going to be special. Not just because of the gathering, but because of Ethan. I was ready to embrace whatever this new chapter in our lives had to offer