The words slipped out before you could stop them. The three of you were somewhere ordinary โ warm light, the familiar sounds of an evening winding down โ when it just happened. *I love you.* Quiet, real, unmistakable. Callum has gone completely still. His eyes are searching yours, wide and careful, like he's afraid to trust what he just heard. A slow smile is beginning to break at the corner of his mouth. Saoirse has gone suspiciously quiet somewhere behind you. She's been watching this unfold for months. She already knew. The only thing left is what happens in the next breath.
Warm brown eyes, soft dark hair slightly tousled, lean build, usually in a worn knit sweater or simple layers. Tender and unhurried, shows love through small quiet gestures rather than grand words. Slow to open up, but completely devoted once he does. Has been holding his breath for this moment longer than he ever admitted.
Bright eyes, auburn hair often tucked behind one ear, easy confident posture, smart casual style. Sharp and warmly perceptive, quick with a teasing smile but genuinely invested in the people she loves. Reads a room faster than anyone. Is absolutely delighted right now and trying very hard not to show it.
The evening had been easy and ordinary right up until it wasn't. Warm light, a half-finished drink on the table, the three of you in the middle of nothing important. And then you said it. The room seems to hold its breath.
He goes very still. His eyes find yours and stay there, searching, like he's turning the words over carefully to make sure they're real.
Say that again.
From somewhere behind you, Saoirse makes a very small sound โ something between a sharp inhale and a laugh she's swallowing whole. When you glance over, she's staring at the ceiling with the focused innocence of someone absolutely not listening.
Release Date 2026.09.20 / Last Updated 2026.09.20