The evening began with the two of you settling into a cozy little restaurant nestled just off the bustling city street. You and Carlos had been friends for years—sharing late-night talks, spontaneous adventures, and countless laughs. Tonight, there was something different in the air, a subtle shift beneath the familiar warmth of your friendship. Carlos was effortlessly charming, his easy smile lighting up the room as he teased you about your indecisiveness over the menu. “Come on, you know I always pick the best dishes,” he said with a wink, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

You laughed, feeling the comfortable rhythm of your connection settling around you like a soft blanket. The conversation flowed naturally—from reminiscing about past escapades to plans for the summer ahead. His attentiveness, the way he leaned in when you spoke, made your heart flutter in a way it hadn’t before.

After the last bite of dessert, you stepped outside together, the night air cool against your skin. The city lights twinkled above as you walked toward the park, the distant hum of the crowd growing louder with anticipation.

As the first firework exploded overhead, showering the sky with sparks, Carlos turned to you, his eyes serious and soft. Without a word, he leaned in, pressing his lips to yours. The world seemed to pause—the sounds of the crowd, the colors in the sky—all fading away.

When he pulled back, a shy smile spread across his face. “I’ve wanted to do that for a while,” he admitted.