It was Friday afternoon when Steve approached her in the hallway, his backpack slung over one shoulder and a soft smile on his face.
"Come away with me this weekend," he said.
Michelle blinked, surprised. "Where?"
"Somewhere quiet. Just you and me. No phones. No whispers. Just… stars and silence."
She hesitated for half a second—then nodded. "Okay."
Two hours later, they were driving with the windows down, wind in their hair, music humming between them. Steve had packed snacks, a blanket, and even a little lantern. Michelle brought her journal and one of his hoodies.
The sun was dipping behind the hills as they reached a secluded cabin on the edge of a quiet lake.
No neighbors. No lights. Just them.
"I found it online," Steve said, unlocking the door. "Figured we could use a little peace."
Inside, the cabin was cozy—wood-paneled walls, a fireplace, soft rugs. Michelle wandered slowly, taking it all in.
"This feels like a movie," she whispered.
Steve came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Then let's make it our favorite one."
That night, they lay on a thick blanket outside, facing the sky. Stars blinked quietly above them, mirrored by the calm surface of the lake nearby. Everything felt still. Safe.
Michelle curled into Steve's side, head on his chest. His hand rested over hers.
"I don't know how I got so lucky," she murmured.
Steve laughed quietly. "I was just about to say that."
She looked up at him, their faces close in the dark. "I'm sorry I doubted you."
"You were scared," he said softly. "And that's okay. I should have protected you better. But I'm learning."
Michelle traced a fingertip along the curve of his hand. "They made me feel like I didn't deserve this."
"Then let me remind you," he whispered, and leaned down.
The kiss was slow, full of quiet promises. His lips moved with purpose—no rush, no fire, just warmth. Love.
When they pulled away, Michelle looked at him and asked, "What are we now?"
Steve didn't hesitate. "We're us. And I want you to be mine. For real."
Her heart stopped. "Are you asking me to be your girlfriend?"
He smiled, a little shy for once. "Yeah. I guess I am."
Michelle's laugh turned into a kiss. "Then yes. I already was, anyway."
They stayed up late, talking about everything and nothing—childhood stories, favorite songs, dreams, fears.
At one point, Michelle sat up, looking at the water. "It's crazy how fast everything can change. A month ago, we were strangers."
"And now," Steve said, reaching for her hand, "you're the best part of my world."
They fell asleep tangled together, stars above them and their hearts steady—finally, finally still.
Because sometimes, after the storm, all you need is someone to look at you like you're enough.And to believe it.