Andrez's Hesitation

The crisp evening air, still carrying the faint scent of blooming jasmine from the garden, did little to cool the nervous flutter in Andrez’s chest. Ray’s hand had been warm, his grip firm as he’d led her away from the raucous laughter and clinking glasses of the reception, back towards the quieter periphery of the estate grounds. They’d found a secluded bench beneath the sprawling branches of an ancient oak, its leaves whispering secrets in the gentle breeze. Fifteen years. It felt like a lifetime, and yet, standing here with him, it was as if no time had passed at all. The easy rhythm of their conversation, the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled, the familiar curve of his jaw – it all flooded back, a bittersweet tide pulling her under.

“I can’t believe it’s been so long, Andrez,” Ray said, his voice a low rumble that vibrated through her. He turned to face her fully, his gaze earnest. “Seeing you tonight… it was like a punch to the gut. A good punch, you know?”

Andrez managed a shaky laugh. “A good punch? That’s a new one, Ray.”