Morning light spilled gently through the curtains, warming Hannah's apartment in soft gold. Birds chirped outside, and the faint hum of Maple Hollow waking up made everything feel alive yet calm.
Emma stirred first, stretching lazily and letting out a contented sigh. Hannah was already at the kitchen counter, brewing coffee, the rich aroma filling the space.
"Morning," Emma mumbled, her voice still heavy with sleep.
"Morning, sleepyhead," Hannah replied, smiling as she handed her a steaming mug. Their fingers brushed, and Emma grinned, savoring the small spark of connection that felt electric even in such a quiet moment.
They settled at the table, sharing laughter over the silliest things — a spilled sugar packet, a crooked mug handle, the way sunlight fell across the floor. It was playful, lighthearted, and easy, a stark contrast to the world outside, which sometimes demanded seriousness.
Emma leaned over, nudging Hannah gently. "We should spend the day like this. No schedules. No deadlines. Just… us."
Hannah's eyes softened. "I can think of nothing better."
They left the apartment hand in hand, stepping into the crisp morning air. The town seemed to glow differently under the sun — every corner more vivid, every laugh and glance brighter. They wandered streets, peeked into small shops, and shared quiet jokes only they understood.
By midday, they found themselves on the little park bench near the fountain, the same one that had first made Emma stop and sketch. Hannah rested her head lightly on Emma's shoulder, and Emma's fingers traced idle patterns across the back of her hand.
"This," Hannah whispered, "this is perfect."
Emma smiled, heart full. "It really is."
And for that morning, and the many that would follow, the world felt light, full of possibility, and entirely theirs.