And Then There Was You...

Chapter 18: And Yet It Won't Change...

"Two weeks," Grace said softly, her voice filled with wonder. "It's only been two weeks, and yet... it feels like this is where I've always belonged."

Connor reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "That's because it is," he said simply, his eyes full of love. "You and me, Grace... this is home."

Grace squeezed his hand, her heart overflowing with happiness. "Yeah, it is," she whispered, leaning over to kiss him once more.

After finishing their leisurely breakfast, Grace and Connor decided to spend the day out, making the most of their rare day off. Grace was particularly excited about visiting the Friday market, a local spot she loved for its vibrant atmosphere and unique finds.

As they got ready, Grace slipped into a stunning floral sundress that extenuated all her curves perfectly. The dress was a beautiful shade of pink, complementing her glowing complexion, and she paired it with her favorite cream-colored ballet flats. She looked radiant, the kind of effortless beauty that took Connor's breath away every time.

When she emerged from the bedroom, Connor, who was casually dressed in a light blue polo shirt and dark blue jeans, couldn't help but stop and stare. His eyes traveled over her from head to toe, a warm smile tugging at his lips.

"You look... incredible," Connor said, his voice full of admiration.

Grace blushed, smoothing down the front of her dress. "You think so? I wasn't sure if it was too much for a casual day out."

Connor stepped closer, taking her hand and bringing it to his lips. "Grace, you could wear a paper bag, and you'd still be the most stunning woman in the room," he murmured against her knuckles. "But this dress... it's like it was made for you."

Grace's heart fluttered at his words, her cheeks flushing even more. "You're too sweet, and you look as handsome as ever too~"

Connor grinned, blushing at her compliment as he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulling her close. "Only for you," he whispered, leaning in to kiss her softly.

They lingered in the embrace for a moment before finally heading out with Milo in tow. The Friday market was bustling with activity, stalls lined with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and the delicious aroma of street food filling the air. It was one of those perfect summer days, with a gentle breeze and the sun shining down brightly.

As they strolled through the market, Grace's eyes lit up with excitement at every new discovery. Connor watched her with a fond smile, his camera in hand, snapping candid shots of her whenever she wasn't looking. She had that effortless grace, that natural beauty that didn't need any posing or preparation.

At one point, she caught him in the act, laughing softly as she playfully swatted at his arm. "Connor! You've been taking pictures of me all day," she teased, her eyes sparkling.

"I can't help it," he replied, lowering the camera but not taking his eyes off her. "You're just... I want to remember this moment, exactly as it is."

Grace's heart melted at his words, and she reached up to cup his cheek, pulling him down for a sweet kiss. "You're too good to me," she whispered against his lips.

Connor smiled, brushing his thumb gently over her cheek. "You deserve it, Grace. Every bit of happiness, every beautiful moment... I want to give that to you."

After a couple of hours, they returned home to drop off their market finds, laughing as Milo tried to snatch a treat from one of the bags. Once everything was put away, they decided to take a walk down to the pier, enjoying the warm afternoon sun and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore.

As they walked along the pier, hand in hand, they talked about everything and nothing—their hopes, their dreams, the little moments that made life special. There was an easy intimacy between them, the kind that only came from truly knowing and loving someone.

At one point, they stopped to lean against the railing, looking out over the water. The view was breathtaking, the sun casting a golden glow over the horizon, but Connor's eyes were only on Grace.

"You know," he began softly, turning to face her fully, "these last few weeks with you... they've been some of the best of my life."

Grace smiled up at him, her heart swelling with emotion. "I feel the same way. Every day with you feels like a dream I don't want to wake up from."

Connor reached up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear, his touch lingering as he gazed into her eyes. "I want this to be our forever, Grace. Waking up beside you, going on silly little adventures, sharing quiet moments like this... it's all I've ever wanted."

Grace's breath caught in her throat at his words, her eyes shining with tears of happiness. "Connor, you've made me feel so loved, so cherished. I never knew it could be like this."

He leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead. "You are loved, Grace. More than you'll ever know. And I promise, I'll spend the rest of my life showing you just how much."

She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him into a deep, loving kiss. When they finally pulled away, they rested their foreheads together, lost in the moment.

"I love you," Grace whispered, her voice filled with emotion.

"I love you too," Connor replied, his heart full. "And I always will."

They stayed like that for a few moments, wrapped up in each other as the world continued on around them. It was a simple, quiet moment, but it was one that spoke volumes about the depth of their feelings for each other. And as they continued their walk, their hands intertwined, both of them knew that this was just the beginning of something truly special—a love that would only grow stronger with each passing day.