"Okay," he acknowledged, not meeting my eyes anymore. "I guess this is good night, then?"
"I suppose. Good night, Rowan," I said as he stood.
He reached out his hand to help me to my feet, and I took it gladly, the gesture reminding me of his heroics in the fitness complex.
Preparing to turn away, I realized he was still gently holding onto my hand.
"Good night, Jada," he said quietly, giving my hand a soft squeeze before letting go and walking out of my dorm.
All I could do was stand there, smiling like a dunce, my hand still warm from his touch.
As I went to bed, my head was filled with thoughts of Rowan and our plan.
∆∆∆
Rowan and I spent almost all of our time together in the next few days. I still felt light as a feather whenever he was around. I couldn't explain it, but I loved every second of it.
So, a few short days after that night in my dorm, I was ready for the school year to begin with butterflies in my stomach, hope in my heart, and Rowan right beside me.