The day of the gathering finally arrived, and my nerves were mixed with excitement. I spent the morning preparing the house, making sure everything was perfect for Jenna and our friends. I wanted the atmosphere to be inviting, filled with laughter and good vibes.
As the guests started to arrive, I greeted everyone with a smile, but my eyes searched for Jenna. When she finally walked through the door, dressed casually yet beautifully, my heart skipped a beat. She looked around, taking in the decorations and the buzz of excitement.
“Hey, Felix! This looks amazing!” she exclaimed, her face lighting up with genuine delight.
“Thanks! I wanted everyone to have a great time,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.
I noticed the way she effortlessly mingled with our friends, laughing and chatting, but there was still a hint of tension in her demeanor. I knew she was still grappling with her feelings for Aiden, and that only fueled my determination to show her that I could be the better choice.
As the evening unfolded, I made sure to involve Jenna in various games and activities. I wanted her to feel relaxed and at ease, to forget about her worries, even if just for a while. I initiated a trivia game that involved funny and light-hearted questions about our friends, and I noticed Jenna's laughter was contagious.
“Okay, next question! Who here is known for their terrible dance moves?” I asked, grinning as I scanned the room.
“Definitely Felix!” Jenna shouted, her laughter ringing in my ears.
“Hey, that’s not fair! I can dance!” I retorted, feigning indignation. But I couldn’t help but chuckle along with her.
As the night progressed, I watched her more closely, noticing the way she interacted with everyone. I wanted to seize the moment when it felt right. Eventually, I suggested we take a break from the games and move to the balcony for some fresh air.
“Jenna, come here for a second,” I beckoned, leading her away from the noise of the crowd.
The view from the balcony was stunning, with the city lights twinkling like stars below us. I leaned against the railing, turning to face her. “How are you doing? Really?”
She sighed, looking out at the view before meeting my gaze. “I don’t know, Felix. I’m just trying to figure everything out. Aiden… it’s complicated.”
“I get that. But I want you to know that you don’t have to carry that weight alone,” I said, trying to be sincere. “You deserve to be happy, Jenna. You shouldn’t be with someone who makes you feel less than that.”
Her expression softened, and for a moment, I thought I saw a flicker of realization in her eyes. “You’ve been really great tonight. I appreciate everything you’ve done.”
“It’s my pleasure,” I replied, stepping a little closer. “I just want you to have fun and be yourself. You’re too amazing to let anyone dim your light.”
As I spoke, I felt the distance between us shrink. There was a spark, an energy that felt electric. I could sense her hesitation, but I also felt the possibility of something more between us.
Just then, laughter erupted from inside the house, breaking the tension. Jenna looked back inside, and I couldn’t help but feel a pang of frustration. “Let’s go back in,” she suggested, but I wasn’t ready to give up.
“Wait,” I said, gently reaching for her hand. “Can I ask you something?”
“Sure,” she replied, her eyes curious.
“If I told you that I really like you, would that change anything?”
She paused, her expression shifting from surprise to contemplation. “Felix, I…”
“I know it’s a lot to take in, especially with everything going on with Aiden, but I needed you to hear it,” I said, my heart racing.
Her gaze softened, and I hoped she could see the sincerity in my eyes. “You’ve been a great friend, Felix. I just don’t know if I’m ready for anything more.”
“I understand,” I said, feeling a mix of disappointment and determination. “But just know that I’m here for you, no matter what. I’ll always be here to support you.”
Jenna nodded, and I could see her processing my words. “Thank you,” she finally said, a hint of warmth in her smile.
As we headed back inside, I knew this was just the beginning. I would keep showing her the kind of person I could be, the kind of love I could give. I was determined to be the one who would help her heal, to be the one she could rely on.
The night was still young, and I had plenty of time to make my case. And as I glanced at Jenna, I felt a renewed sense of hope. I wouldn't let Aiden take her from me. I was ready to fight for her heart.