Good Night.

I stood there, utterly surprised. "Molly? What are you doing here?" I blurted out, trying to make sense of the unexpected situation."You were late, so I came to find you. What's going on? Were you two kissing?" Molly fired off questions, her curiosity evident.Caught off guard by Molly and Leo's barrage of inquiries, Kyle and I found ourselves explaining everything to them."So, she's your...?" Leo trailed off, seeking clarification from Kyle."Yes, she's my girlfriend," Kyle admitted, pulling me close by the waist.His words filled me with joy, mingled with a shy blush that made me avoid direct eye contact with anyone. As we headed back to the car park, I asked Molly to keep it between us for now; I wasn't ready to discuss it with our parents. Thankfully, Molly understood and agreed to keep our secret."You were quite late; Mom and Dad left, asking us to bring you along. And Leo's folks assumed Kyle had left without notice," Molly explained during our drive home.Inside the car, the atmosphere was tense. I struggled to find words, knowing Molly was waiting to tease me about my newfound relationship.Arriving home late, we were greeted by Mom at the door. "Molly, invite the boys in for some tea before they leave. They must be exhausted," Mom insisted.Trying to avoid any awkwardness, I quickly interjected, "They might already be on their way home.""I'm not in a rush, and neither is my brother. Tea sounds perfect," Kyle chimed in with a warm smile.Relieved, I ushered them in. Molly and Leo shared knowing glances, signaling impending teasing that I dreaded.Over tea, Mom turned to Kyle, asking about his occupation. "I'm an army general," Kyle replied.Impressed, Mom encouraged me to seek advice from Kyle for my upcoming training. I managed a smile, feeling a bit embarrassed yet touched by Mom's concern.As Mom headed upstairs, Molly couldn't contain her laughter. "Why am I always the target?" I protested, feeling the heat of embarrassment rise.Attempting to escape the teasing, I excused myself and headed upstairs. But before I could retreat completely, Kyle gently held my hand."I'll call you tomorrow. Good night, and sweet dreams," Kyle said softly, surprising me with his tender words.Molly and Leo exchanged amused glances, commenting on Kyle's unexpected gentleness. Flustered, I hurried upstairs, feeling a rush of emotions. Sending a text to Kyle, I wished him good night with a heart emoji, still reeling from the gentle moment we shared.

_ROSE_...