Amber_Delight

After fourteen years of love, laughter, and growing up side by side, Shawn and Amber seem like the couple who would make it to the end. They met as teenagers, weathered heartbreaks, dreams, and detours together. Now, as Shawn turns 30, he’s ready to take the next step—to settle down and build the future he’s always imagined with the only woman he's ever loved.
But Amber’s dreams have just begun to bloom. With her career finally taking off, the timing feels all wrong. Torn between ambition and affection, she declines Shawn’s heartfelt proposal—not out of doubt, but out of hope. She promises him two more years, just a little more time... and then they’ll have everything.

But time has its own plans.

As distance and doubt creep in, Shawn begins to stray, seeking comfort in the arms of another even as he continues to love Amber. Guilt weighs heavily, and secrets slowly crack the foundation of what once felt unbreakable.

Halfway to Forever, is a deeply emotional journey through love tested by time, choices, and timing. It's about soulmates who never stopped loving each other—just forgot how to love each other right. In the end, will love be enough to bridge the gap between who they were and who they’ve become?

Halfway to Forever

Shawn moved around the kitchen with ease, his focus entirely on the task at hand. The comforting scent of sautéed vegetables and seasoned meat filled the air, making Amber feel more at home than she expected. She was still in awe of how effortlessly Shawn managed everything, not just cooking but taking care of his family.

Shawn's grandmother, sitting nearby at the table, gave Amber a warm smile before she excused herself. "I have a few things to take care of," she said, her voice gentle. "You two go ahead and enjoy your time."

"Alright, Grandma," Shawn said, his voice soft but respectful. As his grandmother walked away, Amber noticed the genuine care and warmth between them. It was clear that Shawn had inherited some of that kindness.

With his grandmother gone, Amber turned her attention to Shawn's little sister, Mandy, who was sitting at the table, her head bent over a coloring book. "What are you drawing?" Amber asked, leaning over the table slightly to get a better look.

Mandy looked up, her eyes bright. "A rainbow!" she said, showing Amber the colorful sketch on the page. "It's my favorite thing to draw."

"That's beautiful," Amber said, smiling at the little girl's enthusiasm. "I think that rainbow is going to brighten up the whole room."

Mandy beamed at the compliment, and for a moment, Amber felt a strange sense of peace—something about this family felt so real, so down-to-earth. She couldn't remember the last time she had been in a home where everyone was so genuinely kind to each other.

When Shawn finally finished cooking, he called out, "Dinner's ready!"

Amber stood up, following him to the dining table where the delicious meal awaited. As she took her seat, Shawn served her a plate, and she hesitated for a moment, eyeing the food. It looked amazing, and her stomach rumbled in anticipation.

"This looks incredible," Amber said, genuinely impressed. She took a bite, and her eyes widened. "Wow, this is really good! You can cook."

Shawn looked at her, slightly embarrassed but pleased. "Thanks. I try."

As they ate, the conversation flowed more easily, with Mandy and Zeki asking Amber about her favorite things. Amber, in turn, teased them with funny stories about her own childhood, making Shawn's siblings laugh. Even Shawn's grandmother, who had been quiet until then, chuckled at one of Amber's stories.

Amber continued to joke, and soon, the room was filled with laughter. Shawn's stern exterior softened slightly, his lips curving up into a faint smile. It was a rare sight, but Amber noticed. He was usually so serious, but in these moments—surrounded by family, with their easy, playful banter—he seemed different.

After dinner, Shawn turned to Amber, "I'll walk you home now. Hope you're not too full."

Amber chuckled, wiping her mouth with a napkin. "I'm good. And thanks again for letting me stay. It was really fun."

"Anytime," Shawn said, his smile lingering just a bit longer than usual.

As Amber walked out the door, she couldn't help but feel like the evening had been something special. It wasn't just about the food or the jokes—it was the warmth of the family she'd gotten a glimpse of, and the quiet bond forming between her and Shawn.

As she stepped into the night, a cool breeze brushing her face, she smiled to herself.

Something was unfolding. Slow, quiet, but real.

And maybe… just maybe, she wasn't afraid of where it might lead. She is very happy.

Chapter 7- The Simple Joys