The dashboard clock showed just past four, and he brought the truck to a smooth stop outside her apartment building.

He hesitated before turning off the engine, wanting to savor this moment a little longer.

But reality set in - she had her own life, and he had his. He couldn't keep her away for too long; it would sound too good to be true on his end.

John climbed out of the truck and made his way around to her side to open the door for her.

He extended his hand to help her down, their fingers briefly touching and sending a jolt of electricity through him. He kept his gaze on her a little longer than necessary before they walked into the building together.

They stroll through the halls until they arrived at her apartment door. Charlie turned to face him with a radiant smile that pulled at his heartstrings.

"I had a good time," she said softly. "I hope we can do this again next time."

"So did I," he said, his voice lower than usual.

There they stood there, just inches apart from each other.

For a brief moment, he considered bridging the gap between them, leaning in to kiss her. But he pulled back, slipping his hands into his jacket pockets and taking a small step away instead.

"Goodnight, Charlotte," he called out, using her full name and smiling.

She blushed, a shy smile appearing on her face. "Goodnight, Johnathan."

As she unlocked the door and went inside, he took a final glance at her before taking a few steps back. Her back was turned towards him as she closed the door, but he could still feel her eyes lingering on him. Before she disappeared from view, she gave him a quick smile and shut the door behind her.

Standing alone in the hallway, his gaze remained fixed on the door.

He never thought he would have these feelings for someone younger than him, someone who seemed to belong in a different world. And yet, she wanted to continue seeing him.

Frustrated with himself, he wondered how much longer he can keep himself in check. He turned to leave, but stopped when the door opened and he heard her voice.

"John."

He paused and turned back to face her. "Hmm?"

She opened her mouth but closed it, as if she couldn't figure out what to say. Until, Charlie chuckled a little to herself.

"Uhm... sorry. My brain farted."

John cocked his head to the side and grinned. "Really?"

Charlie chuckled and shook her head, trying to stifle her laughter before she spoke again, "I was just caught up in the moment, you know? So, when can I see you again?"

His grin slowly disappeared, and he blinked in confusion.

"Any day works," he replied.

She nodded, considering his response.

"How about coming over to hang out on Sunday?"

"Sunday?" John echoed, a smile spreading across his face. "What's the deal?"

She tried to hide her smile and quickly responded, "No, nothing." She shifted her gaze away for a moment before turning back to him. "I wanted you to meet my roommate; she's been eager to meet you."

John chuckled, "I hope you told her good things about me."

"I did," she said, crossing her arms. "I promise I did."

"I believe you," he said playfully.

"I was thinking of making a hearty meal and inviting you over to meet Hailey," Charlie continued. "We can sit down, eat, and hang out. I won't keep you here long, I promise."

"A good meal and hanging out," John repeated, taking note of her words. "Sounds great to me."

Charlie smiled in response. "Great."

"What time?" John asked.

"Anytime in the evening works for me," she replied.

"Noted," he nodded.

Then, there was a brief silence between them as Charlie moved her hair behind her ear. She looked away before clearing her throat and focusing back on him.

"Anyway, I'll let you go. See you later."

John laughed heartily. "See you later, Charlie girl."

She smiled at him one last time before closing the door.

As he stood there in silence, he sighed and rubbed his face wearily.

Bloody hell. She's too damn cute to be this way.

A small thought crossed his mind when he wanted to touch her hair. He wondered what it would be like to run his fingers through her sunny hair. The thought of tangling his hands in her hair was tempting, and he wanted nothing more than to pull her close and feel her against him.

But he quickly cleared his throat and shook away those thoughts as he left the building and returned to his truck.

What did she found interesting about me? John thought to himself. She's too young to be seeing someone older like myself.

But the memory of her smile betrayed his logical side of him.

It stayed in his mind, and a part of him couldn't help but count down the days until he could see her again.

———

Thank you so much for reading this chapter!

John and Charlie's chemistry is undeniable, and I'm so glad you're here for every tender, teasing moment.

Your support makes this story so much more special to me!

Mark your calendars—this Friday, I'll be releasing three new chapters, so you'll have plenty more of John and Charlie to enjoy. Stay tuned!

If you were in John's shoes, would you have gone for the kiss, or would you have waited for the right moment like he did?

Have you ever had a "perfect date" that was hard to say goodbye to? What made it unforgettable?

What do you think John's "leap of faith" should be—fully opening up to Charlie or taking the next step in their relationship?