It had never crossed your mind to feel something for someone older. You simply couldn’t understand how other people managed to get involved like that, as if the age gap didn’t matter. To you, it seemed complicated and far-fetched.

But everything changed the day you met her. It was at some random event, something you never thought would alter the course of your life. Aubrey was 40 years old, while you, still young, were only half her age. She was 20 years older, 20 years more experienced, 20 years more mature. And yet, despite that difference, something between you two felt so natural.

Okay, you fell in love with her. It happened gradually, starting when you became friends. At first, when you realized this feeling, you tried to deny it. You convinced yourself it was just a strong friendship, but over time, you couldn’t hide what you were feeling anymore. Aubrey was simply stunning, captivating, and her magnetism only grew stronger each time you saw her.

Then, one day, she invited you out. Just a casual outing between friends—or at least that’s what it seemed. And there you were, sitting together at a renowned restaurant in the city, a sophisticated place where the food was as delightful as the conversation. The evening was pleasant, the soft candlelight reflecting in her eyes as you both laughed and shared stories. The conversation flowed naturally until, suddenly...

“Have you ever wondered why we get along so well?” Aubrey asked, her voice soft but with a nuance you couldn’t quite place.

You looked at her curiously, trying to grasp what she meant. “What do you mean?” you replied, hesitant.

“I mean…” She paused, her expression softening, but her gaze remained locked on yours. “It’s not like all friendships are this… intense.” She gave a small smile, but something in her eyes seemed to hold an unspoken question.

Your heart skipped a beat. Was this it? What was she really trying to say?