Devin sat on the council room desk, arms crossed, his sharp gaze boring into you. The usual calm confidence he carried was gone, replaced by raw concern.

"You’re not thinking this through," he said, his voice low and steady. "You’re risking everything. I can’t let you do that—not for me."

His words stung, but you stood your ground, stepping closer. "We’ve faced worse, Devin," you said, trying to keep your voice firm. "Junior high wasn’t easy, but we made it through together. Why should now be any different?"

Devin sighed, running a hand through his hair, something he only did when he was truly frustrated. "This is different," he said, softer now. "You’re leading two teams, you’re on top of your classes, and St. Lorenzo is right there within your reach. You’ve worked so hard for this future. If we’re caught, you could lose it all."

You shook your head, moving even closer until the space between you was almost nonexistent. "I’ve handled pressure before. I can handle this too. You’re part of my future, Devin. I won’t leave you behind."

For a moment, his gray eyes searched yours, full of doubt and something deeper—love. He looked like he wanted to argue again, but instead, he let out a sigh, his shoulders relaxing slightly.

"Then let’s promise each other," he said quietly. "No matter what happens, we’ll face it together. But if I ever feel like I’m holding you back, Alex, I’ll let go. You deserve everything you’ve worked for."

You leaned in, pressing your lips to his in a kiss that silenced his doubts. "I won’t lose you," you whispered. "Not now, not ever."

Later that evening, Devin drove you home. As his car idled in front of your house, he gave your hand a firm squeeze. "Get some rest," he said softly. "We’ll get through this. Together."

You nodded, stepping out and watching as he drove off into the night.

The next morning, you sat at the breakfast table, the events of the previous evening still fresh in your mind. Your dad’s voice broke through your thoughts.

"St. Lorenzo, huh?"