THE LOVER

Previously

…Leo nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah, Lily’s the best at silly faces!” My heart did a little flutter, but this time, it was a happy one. The kingdom of the playground hadn't crumbled. It had just… expanded. And maybe, just maybe, the best adventures weren't about exclusive rights to the swing set, but about finding new friends to share them with. As we walked towards the gate, Leo and Sam chatting about their next block tower, I felt a sense of peace settle over me. The path to Leo’s heart might not be a straight, exclusive line after all. It might be a winding, colorful road, with room for more than just two. And I, Lily, the former possessive queen, was ready to explore it.