The movie theater was dim and quiet, the screen casting flickering light over your face. Jacob sat beside you, his arm brushing yours. You tried to focus on the film, but his nearness made it hard.

“You okay?” he whispered.

“Yeah,” you said quickly, then hesitated. “Just… wondering if this was a good idea.”

“Because I’m younger?” he asked, reading your mind like he always seemed to.

You gave a small nod.

Jacob leaned closer, voice low but firm. “I don’t care about that. I like you. A lot. And I’m not backing off just because of a number.”

You looked at him—soft eyes, steady, sincere. Your heart skipped.

He smiled. “I’ll wait as long as it takes.”

You didn’t say anything. But you didn’t move away either.