The evening had started with all the best intentions. Sam, always the thoughtful one, had gone out of his way to plan something special for you both—dressed in a crisp shirt, with a reservation at one of the fanciest restaurants in town. He had insisted that it would be fun, that you deserved something nice.

But somewhere between the awkward silences, the overly polished waiters, and the small talk about what to order, you both knew it was a bit much. You could practically feel the tension in the air, neither of you quite comfortable in this perfect setting.

After some quiet exchanges and a nervous laugh from Sam, the decision was made.

“So, uh…” Sam cleared his throat as you both stood outside the restaurant, a few blocks from where the car was parked. “That wasn’t exactly what I had in mind…”

You chuckled softly, glancing up at him. “You think?”

He shoved his hands into his pockets, clearly trying to shake off his disappointment. “Yeah, maybe a little too much… I just wanted it to be nice.”

You smiled, reaching out to gently touch his arm. “It was nice. Just… a little more fancy than we’re used to.”

Sam raised an eyebrow, his lips curving into a small smile. “I guess it’s back to what we know, huh?”

Without another word, he led you to the car. The drive was quiet at first, but not the uncomfortable kind. Just the kind that happens when you’re figuring things out together, figuring out what feels right. After a while, Sam took a turn, heading down a quiet road that led toward a wide-open field. He pulled over by the edge, the headlights casting a soft glow across the landscape, stretching out into nothing.

You both sat in the car for a moment, the music playing low as you looked out at the stars.

Finally, Sam broke the silence. “I wanted tonight to be special, but this? This feels more like us.”