The gallery buzzed with excitement, vibrant colors splashing across the walls, yet Christian Dukes felt oddly detached from the crowd. He stood beside his favorite piece—a large painting of a sun breaking through stormy clouds—when he caught a glimpse of her

Nevada Kline

His heart raced, and for a moment, time stood still. She looked different yet the same—her hair cascading in waves and those hazel eyes sparkling with curiosity. But it was the way she tilted her head, just slightly, that brought back a flood of memories

Christian took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. What was he supposed to say? Hey, it’s been six years—how’s life?Seemed too casual. You look amazing! felt too personal. Instead, he just stood there, frozen in a mix of excitement and sheer panic.

Nevada’s gaze drifted to his painting, and he could see her smile form slowly, the way it used to when they shared secrets in their childhood treehouse. Gathering his courage, he stepped closer, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Uh, you like it?”

She turned, surprise flickering across her face.

“Wow.. Christian?”

He couldn’t help but grin, but the warmth of familiarity was tangled with the awkwardness of their years apart.

“Yeah, it’s me. You look… great. Really great.”

“Thanks! You too. I mean, the art is… stunning.”

She gestured towards the painting, and he felt a rush of pride mixed with nerves.

“Thanks, I, uh, poured a lot into it. It’s kind of… personal.”

Her brow furrowed slightly, curiosity shining in her eyes.