It was finally Friday, and after a long week of school, Jake was beyond ready to spend time with his girlfriend, Ava. She had been talking all week about a new movie she wanted to see, so Jake surprised her by buying tickets ahead of time.

Right after school let out, he met her by her locker, backpack slung over one shoulder and a grin on his face.

“You ready for our movie date?” he asked, holding up two movie tickets like they were golden.

Ava’s face lit up. “You actually bought them?! Jake, I love you.”

“I know,” he said, smirking. “Now come on before we miss the previews.”

They walked to the movie theater down the street, hands brushing until Ava finally grabbed his. Jake held it tighter, heart racing a little. They reached the theater and split a large popcorn, even though Ava kept pretending she “wasn’t hungry” and then ate half of it.

They found their seats in the middle row, and as the lights dimmed, Ava leaned her head on Jake’s shoulder. He didn’t move. He didn’t even breathe too hard. It was just one of those small, quiet moments that felt perfect.

Halfway through the movie, she whispered, “This is the best Friday ever.”