Love is a funny thing.
It might seem like it blooms overnight, yet in reality, it quietly starts its intricate work long before.
At the beginning, it's merely the thought that her smile is captivating.
Then, it's stealing a second glance as she walks by.
 
Before Harris realizes it, he's caught himself grinning like a dork, replaying her infectious laughter—echoing through the hall an hour ago—over and over in his mind.
 
Love's path is mysterious; it commences slowly, but then suddenly releases all restraints, and he finds himself falling headlong.
 
The fleeting sidelong glances morph into lingering gazes when she averts her eyes.
 
Casual touches transform into gentle brushes that linger just a moment too long.
 
The world seems to brighten when she enters the room.
 
Actually confessing that love to the other person? Strangely, even though it's the shortest aspect of being in love—three words that take mere seconds to say—it somehow becomes the part that takes the longest.
 
Thankfully, Harris has moved beyond all of that now.
 
He holds his source of happiness close, wrapped securely in his arms while the warm rays of summer sunlight envelop them.
 
Love isn't without its challenges.
 
Yet, it's moments like this that Harris clings to when they encounter obstacles.
 
 ***
 
Isabella released a gentle sigh into Harris's chest, humming softly as she tried to rouse herself. But it was a lazy Sunday morning, the bed was warm, and Harris's embrace was so gentle...
 
"What time is it?" Isabella mumbled groggily, nudging Harris's chest with her nose before inhaling deeply, taking in the familiar and comforting scent of her beloved.
 
"Hm," Harris squinted, catching the digital alarm clock's numbers in the mirror. His half-awake mind struggled to align the digits. "Twelve-"
 
Isabella let out an astonished gasp, hastily extricating herself from Harris's arms, much to his disappointment.
 
"What!?" Isabella whirled around, sitting up and scrambling to seize the clock. "It's nearly one in the afternoon!"
 
Harris groaned and pouted slightly, extending his arms invitingly. "Isabella, come on, I miss you."
 
 
 
Isabella huffed, shaking her head. "Oh no, mister. If I remember correctly, that's exactly how we ended up back in bed after we got ready this morning."
 
Harris grinned.
 
It was true, they had woken up five hours earlier, gone through their morning routines, but he felt a bit lazy and just wanted to kiss and cuddle with his beloved before leaving their bedroom. So what if it was his fault? Let him be.
 
"Babe," Harris reluctantly sat up, "It's Sunday. Can't we just indulge in being lazy? I want nothing more than to be with you."
 
Isabella blushed, a fond smile gracing her lips at his uncharacteristically sentimental words.
 
"We can't spend the entire day in bed, Harris."
 
Isabella let out a playful squeal as Harris caught her arm and pulled her into his embrace. He chuckled as he ensnared her in a hug.
 
"Agh! Harris!"
 
"I've got you now!" Harris planted a tender kiss on Isabella's forehead. "I won't let go~" he teased.
 
Isabella whined, though the smile on her face and her flushed cheeks belied her feigned annoyance.
 
"Harris, we can't spend the whole day lounging in bed! We need to eat, and I have things to take care of today!"
 
"I just want it to be 'us' today," Harris mumbled softly.
 
Isabella giggled and gave him one last affectionate squeeze before freeing herself and sitting upright.
 
"Why don't I whip up some lunch, and then we can enjoy being lazy in bed?"
 
Harris scoffed, joining her in sitting up. "Fine. I'll get out of bed."
 
Isabella pouted. "My cooking has improved, you know!"
 
Harris sighed, gently cupping Isabella’s face gently and placing a soft kiss on her lips.
 
"For now, let me handle the cooking, okay?"
 
Isabella beamed. "Sure thing. In that case, I'll take care of some laundry!"
 
The days passed in a blissful rhythm for Harris and Isabella. Their love deepened with each passing moment, and the little moments they shared became treasured memories. Harris couldn't help but marvel at how effortlessly Isabella had become an integral part of his life, and he relished every second spent with her.
One evening, as the golden hues of sunset bathed their cozy living room in warm light, Harris had a surprise planned for Isabella. He had secretly enlisted the help of her closest friends, Alex to organize a surprise birthday celebration for Isabella. Harris was determined to make it a day to remember.
 
With a mischievous grin, Harris convinced Isabella to accompany him to a nearby park, claiming that they needed a relaxing evening outdoors. Isabella, always up for an adventure, readily agreed. Little did she know what awaited her.
 
As they arrived at the park, the atmosphere was filled with an air of excitement. Harris led Isabella to a beautifully decorated gazebo adorned with fairy lights, candles, and her favorite flowers. The scene was straight out of a romantic movie, and Isabella was utterly captivated.
 
"Surprise!" Harris smiled proudly, watching her reaction.
 
Tears of joy welled up in Isabella's eyes as she took in the sight. "I can't believe you planned all of this," Isabella said, her voice trembling with emotion as she hugged Harris tightly.
 
"Anything for you and Happy Birthday my love," Harris whispered into her ear.
 
The evening was filled with laughter and happiness. Isabella couldn't have asked for a more perfect celebration of her birthday. She felt overwhelmed by the love and support by the unwavering love of the man beside her.