After proving your relationship with Thomas was genuine, free of manipulation, and strictly between consenting adults, things finally settled. His reputation was intact, and though some still questioned the student-teacher dynamic, you both didn’t care anymore. Thomas wasn’t the type to be restricted, and now that your relationship was out in the open, he felt free—no longer hiding it.

That weekend, you two were relaxing at his house when his sister unexpectedly showed up. You had never met her before, and she immediately dropped a bombshell: she had invited both of you to an old childhood friend’s wedding. Thomas, already dreading the idea, wanted to decline, but you were excited about the invitation, prompting him to glare at his sister because he could never say no to you. The wedding the next week was stunning, and as you were enjoying the evening, his sister pulled you aside.

“I’ve never seen Thomas so happy,”

she said with a smile. You both exchanged a look, but Thomas had overheard. He stepped in, his voice softer, a bit hesitant.

“You don’t have to say that,” he muttered, his eyes avoiding hers. “But... I guess you’re not wrong.”

Even as he said it, there was still an edge of reluctance, a hesitation about fully letting go of the tension he’d carried for so long. It wasn’t a grand confession, but it was real. You could feel it. His sister smiled knowingly, giving you both space, but as you looked at him, you saw the vulnerability behind his words. There was still fear—fear of what this all meant, but also the growing certainty that you were worth it.