That evening, they sat in a fairy-lit beer garden, sharing a bratwurst. “I knew you’d love it here,” Jake murmured, his hand tracing circles on hers as she rested her head on his shoulder.
After a comfortable silence, Amelia finally spoke. “Jake, what happens after this weekend? I don’t want to go back to calls and texts.”
Jake set his beer down, his gaze steady. “I’ve been thinking about that too. I can’t keep doing the distance. I talked to my boss about transferring to London. It’s not official yet, but it’s possible. I want us to be together.”
Her breath hitched. “Are you serious?”
He cupped her face, his thumb brushing her cheek. “I’ve never been more serious. I don’t care where I am, as long as it’s with you.”
A slow, tearful smile spread across her face. “I love you, Jake. I was so afraid the distance would change things, but it hasn’t.”
He kissed her, sealing promises of everything they’d yet to say. “I love you too. And I’m done with the distance.”
On their final morning, they found a café as golden light streamed through the windows. Amelia stirred her coffee, her gaze thoughtful.
“So,” he began softly. “Last breakfast before you head back. Think it’s up to par?”
She smirked, taking a bite of her croissant. “If you’re trying to butter me up so I won’t leave, it’s working.”
“Had to try.” He chuckled, glancing out the window.
She nodded, smiling. “It feels natural, like we never missed a beat. But… how are we going to do this again?”
Jake reached across the table, his hand covering hers. “Hey, I meant what I said. We’re going to be together soon.”
Amelia squeezed his hand, her expression softening. “I know you will. I just don’t want us to lose ourselves along the way.”
Jake studied her, thoughtful. “Amelia, you’re my home. It’s not about the city. The job, the location—they’re details.” He pressed a kiss to her fingers. “I can’t do this distance again.”
Her heart swelled. “Then let’s promise to be a team, no matter where we end up.”
He gave her a crooked grin. “Deal. I’ll even learn to cook for you.”
“Big promises,” she teased, blinking back tears. “But I’ll take it.”
When the time came to leave, Jake pulled her into his arms. “You better save me a spot on that tiny couch of yours.”
“It’ll be waiting for you,” she whispered.
One last kiss, and then Amelia slipped out the door, glancing back one last time. Jake stayed at the window, watching her until she rounded the corner. This wasn’t the end—it was the beginning of a new chapter, one they’d write together.
