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Our connection breaks when a waitress appears on our side, places a bowl of ice cream on the table, and leaves without a word.

“Did we order this?” I ask, confused.

“No. It’s for something else.”

“What?”

“A good luck tradition,” answers Kingston mysteriously.

That’s when I notice we aren’t the only ones who are served ice cream.

“I’ll tell you when it’s time,” says Kingston, drawing me back to his chest. “Until then, enjoy.”

“How much longer?” I huff in anticipation.

“One more minute to go.”

The blood begins to pump faster in my veins with the adrenaline. The highlights of this year flash in my mind. Allthe goals I accomplished. Quitting my job, starting my own business, coming on this solo trip, and taking a step to fix my relationship with my mother.

Even so, nothing beats meeting Kingston and how he flipped my life upside down in the best and most unforgettable way possible.

The countless memories he’s given me that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.

His infectious smirks, his mischievous yet domineering intensity, and his way of making me feel at the top of the world. His little gestures of holding my hands whenever we’re in public, making sure I’m fed, listening to me when I go on my silly monologues, fulfilling my wishes before I can say them, and always making me smile and laugh.

I could go on and on about how perfect he is.

I never feel more complete than when I am with him.

Especially with his arms around me and his scent in my lungs. Kingston lights up my world just the way the fireworks are lighting up the sky.

“Ten.”

The countdown begins.

“Nine.”

Everybody joins.

“Eight.”

I enthusiastically chant too.

“Seven.”

Kingston’s soft breath teases my neck as he props his chin there.

“Six.”

My fingers flex between his and I bring our joined hands up to my chest.

“Five.”

My heart pounds harder behind my ribs.

“Four.”

Electricity buzzes in the air as the moment the clock strikes twelve nears. I’m unable to sit still, making Kingston chuckle low.