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The next day was slow.
Lila yawned, still thinking about last night.
Kai's words.
That forehead kiss.
She barely noticed the soft knock on the classroom window until she turned—
and saw Theo, standing outside with a grin and holding… a lunch basket?
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🍱 Rooftop Escape
He didn't say much.
Just pulled her away from the cafeteria, up to the rooftop, where he'd set up a blanket and food—her favorite dishes.
Theo (scratching his head):
"So… I may have overheard that someone's been stressed lately."
Lila (smiling):
"You cooked all this?"
Theo (grinning):
"Nope. I panicked and called your mom. She helped."
She laughed—real, warm, surprised.
---
🌬️ Windy Moments
They sat, the city breeze tugging at Lila's hair.
Theo gently tucked a strand behind her ear.
Theo:
"You know, I've known you forever.
And even now, you still surprise me."
Lila blushed.
Lila (teasing):
"That good or bad?"
Theo (leaning closer):
"It's the best part of loving you."
She froze slightly, eyes wide.
Theo (softly):
"Even if you picked both… I still want to win your heart.
Fully. No halves."
He didn't kiss her.
Instead, he stood and offered his hand.
> "Come on. Let's ditch the rest of school and just… be us."
---
💫 Later That Day
They walked around town—
got ice cream, played claw machines, and even danced in a music store when a love song played.
Lila laughed so much her stomach hurt.
---
☁️ That Evening
When Theo dropped her home, he looked at her one last time and said:
> "Even if Kai kissed your forehead… I'll kiss your memories."
And with a wink, he walked away.
---
End of Chapter 33