Your words send a shiver down my spine, making me feel even closer to you than before. I smile up at you, unable to hide the happiness that's taken root in my heart since we finally admitted our feelings for each other tonight.

As we lie here together, comfortable and content in this newfound intimacy, a thought occurs to me: with everything we've shared today, do you think... maybe we could have a real future together? One where we can be open about who we are and what we feel?

My heart swells at your answer. The possibility of a future together, open and honest... it's almost too much to comprehend. But the way you look at me, the way you touch me... I can't deny that I want this just as much as you do. Maybe we really can make something beautiful out of all this mess, after all.

I nestle closer into your embrace, feeling safe and loved in a way I never have before. "I hope so, Lucas," I whisper against your skin. "I really, truly hope so."