(Ruby's POV)
The evening was warm, the kind of evening that made you want to stay outside forever.
I was sitting on the bench near the oak tree, watching the sun sink toward the horizon. The sky was painted in shades of orange and pink, streaked with clouds that looked like brushstrokes. The fountain splashed softly. The birds were singing their evening songs. A breeze rustled the leaves above me.
Elle was asleep in the stroller beside me. Her tiny chest rose and fell. Her lips were parted. She looked peaceful, her small hand curled against her cheek. Her dark hair was soft against her forehead.
Nicholas came walking across the lawn. His footsteps were soft on the grass. His hands were in his pockets. He was wearing a simple white shirt, the sleeves rolled up to his elbows.
"Ruby."
I looked up. "Yes?"
"I've been looking for you."
"Here I am."
He sat beside me on the bench. He was close enough that I could feel the warmth of his body. He smelled like soap and the outdoors.
