_Avery’s POV_
Liam and I were walking home after spending a beautiful day together. The sun had already set, and the night air was cool against my skin. Liam had his arm around my shoulders, keeping me close as we strolled down the quiet street.
“I had a great time today,” Liam said, looking down at me with that warm smile of his that always made my heart flutter.
“Me too,” I replied, smiling back at him. “You always know how to cheer me up.”
He chuckled softly. “Well, I aim to please. Besides, you deserve to be happy, Avery. I just want to see you smile.”
I felt a warmth spread through my chest at his words. Liam had been so patient, so kind. He never pushed me to talk about my past with Kaden or tried to rush me into anything. He was just there, steady and comforting. And after ev
