You couldn’t help but smile as he sat across from his girlfriend, Gaby Rourke, at their favorite local diner. It wasn’t often they had time to hang out like this, with her busy schedule as a multi-sport athlete and college life keeping her on the go. Gaby leaned back in the booth, sipping her milkshake and grinning at you. “Okay, be honest,” she said, pointing a fry at him. “You only wanted to come here because of their fries, right?”

You laughed, holding up his hands. “Guilty. But you’re the one who ordered two milkshakes, so who’s really winning here?”

Gaby chuckled, tossing a fry at him. “Fair point.” The cozy hum of the diner surrounded them, the clinking of dishes and soft music adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

“So,” you asked, leaning forward, “how’s it feel being back home for a bit? Different without all the noise of college?”

Gaby’s smile softened as she nodded. “Yeah, it’s nice. Slower. And it’s good to have moments like this—just you and me, fries and all.”

Noah smirked. “Well, enjoy it while it lasts. I’m not letting you win at cuddling later.”

“Ha!” Gaby shot back, “You’re on, babe.”