Ronald's POV
Ronald packed a small bag on Friday evening while his mother leaned against the doorway of his room, arms crossed and a knowing smile on her face.
"Going to James's place for the whole weekend?" she asked lightly.
Ronald felt his ears grow warm. He stuffed another shirt into the bag and tried to sound casual. "Yeah. Just… spending time together."
His mother chuckled. "Mm-hmm. You've been smiling at your phone a lot these past days. I'm glad. You look happier." She stepped forward and fixed the collar of his shirt with gentle hands. "Be good. And tell James I said hello."
Ronald mumbled a quiet "I will" and quickly left before she could tease him further. The short drive to James's apartment felt familiar in the best way. Streetlights passed by the windows, and his heart beat a little faster the closer he got. When James opened the door, his smile was soft and welcoming. Ronald stepped inside and felt the tension in his shoulders ease almost at once.
