1 HAILEY

My hands tremble slightly as I pull on the dark denim jeans that hug my curves in all the right places. There is literally no reason for me to be nervous, but I am.

I finally felt comfortable enough to go out in public on a date with Levi, who quickly asked if I wanted to go with him to a fall carnival that was coming to town in a couple of weeks. I agreed without giving it too much thought.

Now I’m left staring at my reflection in the mirror. Maybe the butterflies have nothing to do with being nervous about being seen with Levi and everything to do with spending time with him.

I take a deep breath and smile at my reflection in the mirror. I make a quick decision to wear my auburn hair down. At least I’m having a good hair day, I think as I run my fingers through the soft waves. The emerald green sweater I’m wearing brings out the green in my eyes and will be warm enough for what I suspect will be a cool evening, but I grab a coat as well.

I snatch my purse and car keys off my bed, giving myself one last look before I feel my phone vibrate in my bag. With an eyebrow raised, I pull the device out of its resting place and find a text from my boyfriend. I’m still getting used to thinking about him in that way.

Levi: Just parked and I’m on my way up.

I smile as I read over his message one more time. Then, I type out a response.

Me: No need. I’m about to leave my apartment right now.

I stuff my phone back into my purse and head out the door.

The crisp autumn air greets me as I step outside. I see Levi waiting by his car, looking handsome in a flannel shirt and jeans. His face lights up when he sees me as he opens the passenger door. “You look beautiful,” he says warmly as I slide into the seat.

“Thank you. You don’t look too bad yourself.” I watch as he walks around to the driver’s side, gets in, and starts the engine.

He glances over at me with a grin. “Ready for some fun?”

I nod. “I haven’t been to a carnival in years and I’m excited to go with you.”

Levi reaches over and takes my hand, interlacing our fingers. His touch sends a shiver through me. “Excellent. Let’s do this.”

We chat quietly as Levi navigates through Crestwood toward the fair, which is located on the outskirts of town. Colorful lights soon come into view, illuminating the Ferris wheel, carousel, and other classic rides against the already beautiful sky.

After parking, Levi steps out of the vehicle and walks around to open my door.

“Shall we?” he asks, holding his hand out.

I nod as I slip my hand into his, allowing him to help me out of the SUV. As we approach the entrance of the fair, the aroma of fried foods and cotton candy sweetens the breeze. I pick up the pace, forcing Levi to chuckle as he easily keeps up with me.

He squeezes my hand gently. “Someone’s eager.”

I laugh softly. “I haven’t been to one of these since I was a kid. It’s bringing back a lot of happy memories.”

We pay our admission and step through the gates. I lead Levi by the hand, and we find ourselves weaving between excited children and couples strolling hand-in-hand like we are.

“Where to first?” Levi asks.

I look around to give him an answer. I spot the towering Ferris wheel and point at it. “Let’s start with that,” I say, pulling him toward the line. As we wait, I lean into him, resting my head on his shoulder.

“I’m thrilled we did this,” I say softly.

Levi wraps his arm around my waist. “Me too,” he replies, planting a light kiss on the top of my head. “I’ve been wanting to take you out for a while now, and I’m glad you said yes.”

I smile up at him. “How could I say no at this point?”

He grins back at me, the corners of his eyes crinkling. I feel butterflies fluttering in my stomach once more, but it has nothing to do with nerves. I’m just so damn excited to be here, but more importantly, with him.

We finally reach the front of the line, and the ride operator ushers us into a gondola. It sways gently as we take our seats, and Levi’s thumb strokes my knuckles in a soothing rhythm. As the Ferris wheel begins to move, I lean into him once again, feeling happy as we slowly rise above the grounds.

The view from the top is breathtaking. Being able to see everything the fair has to offer would make deciding where to go easier, plus getting to admire the pretty lights is another plus.

“Hey look, they have bumper cars, I used to love those. Can we do them next?”

Levi laughs. “Sure.”

“Oh and can we play some games? I’m pretty good at popping balloons with those darts.”

“Me too. I’ll win you a prize.” He slides his arm around me and smiles.

I giggle. “And then maybe we get dinner? I think I saw a truck serving walking tacos, or maybe one of those donut burgers?”

“And funnel cake for dessert. This night is all about us doing fun stuff together. Let’s make the most of it.”

I can’t help but feel happy and let out a small sigh. “It’s so beautiful up here,” I murmur, my gaze tracing the trails of light below.

“You’re more beautiful,” Levi says softly.

Blushing, I glance down at our entwined hands. “Flattery will get you everywhere. You can’t help but unleash your charm, huh?” I tease, hoping to hide the effect his words are having on me.

He chuckles and I feel his chest vibrate with the sound. “Only when I’m with you.”

His gaze searches mine for any hint of doubt, but I know there’s none to be found. Then, without a word, he closes the distance between us, capturing my lips with his own in a kiss that promises forever and so much more.

As we break apart and the Ferris wheel starts its descent, everything seems more lively somehow. I can attribute it more to the mood I’m in after sharing a moment with Levi.

There’s nowhere else I can dream of being than being right here, right now.