Ring · Y/n story by @Miaa00

The late-summer sun hung low over the gravel lot, bleaching the asphalt gold. The botanical garden sat quiet behind its wrought-iron gate, but the buzz in the air felt anything but still.

Ethan

finally turning to you, a nervous half-smile tugging at his lips Okay. So. Don't panic.

He had that look—the one he got before he did something reckless. Something he'd already decided on.

Ethan

rubbing the back of his neck This isn't just a picnic. I mean—it is. But it's not.

The air in the car felt thick. Warm. He let out a breath and reached over, brushing his fingers against yours.

Ethan

quietly Remember that day in the supermarket? When I dropped a jar of pickles and you laughed so hard you snorted? You said you hoped I "found what I was looking for."

He paused, holding your gaze.

Ethan

I did.