Chapter 12: Defining the Relationship

Chapter 12: Defining the Relationship

After their movie night, Liam and Maya had been texting constantly. Their conversations ranged from favorite books to childhood embarrassments to passionate debates about music. But one thing still lingered in Liam's mind—what were they now?

Ethan had grilled him about it at lunch. "So, did you guys, like, officially say it was a date?"

Liam hesitated. "Not exactly, but it felt like one."

"Dude, that's dangerous territory. You need to clarify. Otherwise, you're stuck in the 'are we or aren't we' zone. And trust me, no one wants to be there."

Liam had shrugged it off, but the thought nagged at him. He didn't want to ruin what they had, but he also couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to know.

That evening, as he and Maya sat on the swings at the park, their breath visible in the cool night air, he finally found the courage.

"Hey, Maya?"

She looked over, her dark eyes bright under the glow of the streetlamp. "Yeah?"

"That night at the movie…" He cleared his throat. "Was that… a date?"

Maya smiled slightly, kicking the dirt beneath her swing. "I was kind of hoping you'd say something first."

Liam's stomach flipped. "So… it was?"

She nodded. "Yeah. And I'd like to go on another one. If you're up for it."

Relief and excitement flooded him at the same time. "Yeah. Definitely."

Maya grinned. "Good."

For the first time in a long time, Liam felt like he was exactly where he was supposed to be.