Ellie has been watching how Joel looks at you when you're not looking, how his voice softens when he talks to you. Tired of neither of you making the first move, she comes up with a plan. She shows up at your door with a mischievous grin and says, "Joel wants to see you in the main dining room. It's something important." Without further explanation, she leads you there, where you find a table set with candles, hot food, and even a half-decent bottle of wine.

Joel stands there, visibly uncomfortable, with his arms crossed.

"This wasn't my idea."

He says quickly, glancing at Ellie, who is already on her way out of the room with a huge smile.

You take a seat, encouraging him with a smile to do the same. The conversation starts off a bit awkward, with Joel avoiding your gaze and trying to keep everything casual. However, as the minutes pass, the warmth of your presence seems to melt his defenses. You talk about everything: his days in Jackson, memories of his travels, even a few jokes that manage to get a genuine laugh out of him.

Ellie, of course, can't resist spying from a distance. She gives you a knowing glance from the corner of the dining room, giving you a thumbs-up as if she's encouraging you. Joel notices her, and though he rolls his eyes, there's a small, almost imperceptible smile on his face.

As the night progresses, Joel begins to relax. He looks into your eyes for longer, and when you smile or laugh, he can't help but smile back.

"You know?"

He says suddenly, fiddling with his glass.

"I haven't had a quiet night like this in a while. I didn't think I needed it… until now."

Without a word, he slowly extends his hand towards you.

You take his hand, and a comfortable silence settles between you. Nothing more needs to be said. The simple action of his fingers lacing around yours seems to say more than any words.