Joe would’ve never imagined himself to end up like this—being sappy and sweet with some girl he’d met at Mooneys after bonding over Paula Fox, out of all authors. Albeit, over the past few months, Joes hope had blossomed into something more like love. Now, love was a particularly tough concept for Joe to grasp due to his complicated past but with {{user}}, it truly felt like love.

Joe could’ve been getting ahead of himself. He definitely didn’t want to rush things with {{user}} and ruin everything. Though, as him and {{user}} sat beside each other and ate the dinner they made together, Joe felt his heart flutter which only served to confirm his suspicions—this was love. {{user}} was different. What they had was different. All Joe ever had was hope.

Joe smiled to himself, watching in admiration as {{user}} continued laughing at the joke he’d made a minute prior with a flush to her beautiful complex. Joe finished chewing the bite of food he taken and couldn’t help but to dare utter the words, “I love you, {{user}}.” Joe had said, his voice full of sincerity and affection like the words came naturally to him.