"It's more than hard," I admit."Every second we're together, I'm thinking about what happens if someone finds out.But every second we're apart, I'm counting the hours until I see her again."
"That's how you know," Carter says simply."When it's worth the risk."
I nod.Because he's right.And I've never been more certain.
After the meeting, I head to the guest house.Skye steps outside as I pull up, slipping into the passenger seat with a soft smile.She's wearing a simple floral dress she knows I love.Her hair is loose around her shoulders.
"Ready?"I ask.
She nods."Ready and nervous."
I reach over and take her hand, lacing our fingers together."We've got this."
We fall into an easy rhythm as I drive.Her hand stays in mine as her thumb traces small circles over my skin.I glance over at her.
"How's your week been?I've missed you."
We haven't seen each other outside of class since the masquerade ball.Skye needs time to work and study, and I've had club meetings.
She smiles, leaning back in her seat."It's been busy and exhausting.But I've been thinking about you nonstop.Since the ball.It's like something shifted."
"Yeah," I agree."Same here.That night was..."
"Everything," she finishes.
"Exactly."
She turns toward me, brushing her thumb over the back of my hand."And you?How's your week been?"
"Productive.I've been working on the outreach programs.Pink's giving her first talk next week at the university."
"Really?That's amazing.What's she covering?"
"Consent, communication, and safe exploration.The basics, but the kind of basics that save people.I'm hoping it leads to more events like it."
"It will.That's powerful, Gage."
I squeeze her hand gently."It feels right.Like we're finally doing something that matters beyond the walls of the Club."
She nods, her eyes soft as they meet mine."You've always mattered to me."
We drive the rest of the way wrapped in quiet warmth, the silence between us full of comfort and connection.The moment her mom's apartment comes into view, I lift our joined hands and kiss her knuckles.
"Ready for this?"
She takes a breath and smiles."With you?Always."
And I know this is just the beginning of something real.
Inside, her mom greets us at the door with a smile that feels like home.The scent of garlic and herbs fills the air, and I suddenly realize how much I've missed this kind of warmth.
"Gage, it's so good to finally meet you," her mom says, pulling me into a quick hug.
"Thank you for having me.It smells amazing."
"Sit, sit.Skye, help me with the salad, would you?"
We move into the kitchen, where the table is already set.There's laughter and soft teasing, and Skye keeps stealing glances at me like she can't believe I'm really here.Her mom pours us all glasses of wine and insists I take second helpings.