A Proper Hello- Danny Ramirez

A Proper Hello- Danny Ramirez

Description: After being apart for months, Danny and (Y/N) have a warm interaction at the airport. 

Warnings: None, Fluff

Word count: 506

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“Where are you? I can’t see you.” Danny's voice crackled through the phone as he awkwardly balanced it between his shoulder and ear. He was struggling to secure the strap of his backpack while maneuvering his suitcase through the bustling crowd.

“I’m right where I told you—behind the exit sign. Look, I’m waving my hand. Do you see me?”

Danny squinted and scanned the area. After a moment, he spotted the sign and lowered his gaze, only to see a glimpse of her hand, with the rest of her obscured by a taller person standing directly in front of her.

“You’re lucky I recognize you anywhere, midget. I’m on my way.” It took only seconds for him to appear in her line of sight, and her face brightened with relief as she hurried toward him.

“You’re such an asshole!” She laughed, though her tone was affectionate. He rolled his eyes with a teasing smirk. When they were finally close, Danny stopped, opened his arms wide, and enveloped her in a big, tight hug.

He hummed contentedly, swaying her from side to side. She could feel herself melting into his embrace, savoring the warmth and comfort that was so familiar.

“Finally,” she whispered in his ear, causing him to smile even wider. He placed a quick kiss on her cheek before reluctantly letting go.

“Come on. I want to give you a proper hello without all these people around.” Danny took her hand, his other hand still clutching his suitcase, and they walked toward the parking lot. As they made their way, they chatted casually, catching up on the time they’d been apart.

Once they had loaded his belongings into the trunk and got into the car, she continued to describe how the last few days had seemed to stretch on endlessly, knowing that his return had been imminent.

Danny, however, appeared distracted, his eyes scanning the surroundings to ensure they weren’t drawing unwanted attention.

“Mi amor,” he said suddenly, interrupting her. She fell silent as he gazed at her, his eyes dropping to her lips. A playful smile touched her face as she anticipated what was coming. She raised an eyebrow and reached up to play with the chain of his necklace through the gap in his shirt.

“Are we about to kiss?”

Danny chuckled, his smile widening as he placed his hands gently on the back of her neck, pulling her closer. His lips brushed hers with a lingering, teasing touch, making her heart race after three months apart. With a playful nip at her lower lip, Danny finally sealed the kiss they had both been waiting for, relishing the familiar warmth of their connection.

One kiss quickly turned into several, each one slightly shorter and more playful than the last.

“Seems like you missed me, Mr. Ramirez,” she teased, raising her eyebrows with a playful laugh.

Danny’s grin was unmistakable, his eyes twinkling with affection. “You know I did. Now, how about we get home as soon as possible and continue this properly?”

Getting the Falcon Role- Danny Ramirez

Description: Danny gets exciting news regarding his career and the first person he delivers it is his wife.

Warnings: None, Pure fluff

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“I made you some breakfast so you can take it with you. Try to eat something before the audition,” I say, standing in the doorway of the bathroom, watching Danny focus on his reflection in the mirror.

A few seconds pass in silence. His brow is furrowed in concentration as he struggles to get his hair just right. I step closer, reaching out to smooth the back of his head, and press a light kiss where his neck meets his shoulder.

“You’re going to do great… Don’t stress about it. They’ve worked with you before, and they know how talented you are,” I reassure him softly.

“Yeah, I know,” he replies, his voice coming out almost too cockily, with a hint of bravado that doesn’t quite mask his underlying anxiety.

I catch his eye in the mirror, giving him a teasing look. It only takes a moment for him to notice and turn to face me.

“I’m sorry. I’m so nervous I could shit my pants right now. I don’t even know what I’m doing with this,” he says, gesturing vaguely to his hair. I raise an eyebrow—he looks perfectly fine to me.

“Alright, sit down. I’ll handle it for you,” I offer.

He sits obediently, allowing me to stand between his legs to get a better angle on his damp hair.

“Just don’t use too much product, okay? I want it to look natural,” he murmurs.

“I’ve got it,” I assure him. A couple of minutes pass in silence before he speaks again.

“Babe, I don’t want it to look too neat. Don’t overdo it,” he insists, his nerves peeking through.

“I’m not overdoing it. Just relax,” I reply calmly.

Another couple of minutes pass before he interrupts again.

“Can I see? I just want to—”

“Danny! Can you please let me finish?” I interject, laughing. “I’m literally two curls away from being done. Chill! I’ve done this a thousand times.”

That’s enough to silence him, though I can tell it takes some effort. When I finally step back and let him see the finished result, he breaks into a reluctant smile, realizing he has no complaints.

Ten minutes later, he’s ready to leave, having spritzed on some cologne and put on his wedding ring along with the two chains he always wears.

He doesn't want to eat, but he won’t refuse the breakfast I made, even if I know he won’t touch it until after the audition.

Before he leaves, we say a quick prayer—something he’s grown accustomed to over the six years we’ve been together.

I pull him into a tight hug, wishing him all the luck in the world, then rise on my tiptoes to give him a few light kisses. He thanks me, still holding me close, and before stepping back, he gives me one more kiss, deeper and more lingering.

“I’ll let you know how it goes. I love you,” he says, his voice filled with sincerity.

“I love you, too,” I respond with a smile as I walk him to the door, watching him until he disappears into the elevator.

Hours later, we speak on the phone. His voice is noticeably more relaxed and cheerful than it was this morning.

“I think I’ve got a good chance. They had a lot of positive things to say, you know? And Sam told me the role is pretty much mine. But I don’t know… I don’t want to get my hopes up. Or maybe just a little,” he says, grinning at me through the phone camera. I can’t help but smile back.

“I mean, if Sam said it, why wouldn’t we believe him, right?” I reply encouragingly.

“But we could just be delulu right now. Sam loves me. That’s definitely something he’d say,” Danny laughs.

“Who cares? Let’s be delulu, then. Nobody can play that role better than you.”

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Time passes by and Danny keeps working harder every single day. New projects keep coming his way, and he is profoundly grateful for every opportunity. After so many years of navigating an industry with limited roles for Latinx actors, this is a major breakthrough.

Nearly four months after the audition, he finally receives the news he had been waiting for during a meeting with the production team and his agent.

As soon as Danny steps out of the building, a surge of adrenaline pushes him forward. He sprints down the bulding, his heart pounding in sync with his racing thoughts. He hardly notices the people he weaves through, the city blurring around him as he focuses solely on getting home. When he reaches our front door, he bursts through with such force that the door almost bangs against the wall. His bag slips from his shoulder and thuds to the floor, forgotten in his excitement.

“(Y/N)! Baby, where are you?!” he calls out, his voice carrying a mix of exhilaration and urgency.

I don’t hear him at first. I’m in the studio, headphones on, fully immersed in the process of layering tracks, the bass reverberating through me. It’s only when I catch a faint sound through the music—a distant, frantic shout—that I pause, lifting one earphone.

He bursts into the office/studio, his face flushed, eyes bright with an intensity I haven’t seen in a while. I swivel around in my chair, startled by his sudden entrance.

“What’s up? Are you okay?” I ask, concern flickering in my eyes as I take in his breathless state. Before I can react, he scoops me up from my chair, lifting me off the ground with an unexpected burst of strength. I gasp, caught off guard, my hands instinctively clutching his shoulders.

“I got the part! They just told me! I’m going to be the Falcon, (Y/N)!” he exclaims, his voice a mix of disbelief and euphoria, the words tumbling out in a rush.

“Wait, what?” I blink, trying to process what he’s just said. My eyes widen as his words sink in. “You got it?! Shut up!”

“I got it, baby!” he shouts again, his joy utterly infectious. A laugh bursts out of me—a mixture of relief, pride, and sheer happiness—as I wrap my legs around his waist. I pull his face down to mine, capturing his lips in a quick, jubilant kiss.

“I knew it! I told you you’d get it!” I whisper breathlessly against his lips, my fingers running through his hair. “There’s no one better for the role than you. You have no idea how proud I am of you.”

He grins so wide it lights up his entire face, his eyes glistening with emotion. He presses his forehead against mine, letting out a shaky breath before leaving a tender kiss on the tip of my nose.

“I still can’t believe it,” he says, his voice softer now, as if speaking any louder would shatter the moment. “This is such a big deal. I have to call Mom, Glen, Paola...” He starts listing names, his excitement bubbling over.

“Do you want to make a list?” I tease, a laugh escaping me as I watch him roll his eyes playfully, still wearing that incredible smile. “Call them. They’ll be over the moon.”

“Yeah, I’m going to do that. I can’t wait to see Glenn’s reaction.” He chuckles, heading towards the door but stops mid-step, spinning around again.

“Oh, and Sam wants to celebrate tonight with some of the team. Maybe go out for drinks or dinner. You’ll come, right?”

“Absolutely,” I reply, my smile mirroring his. “I should be done with work in a couple of hours, and then I’m all yours.”

“Okay.” He smiles again and as he reaches the door; his body turns around and walks back to where I still stand, wrapping his arms around me one more time. His voice softens, “Thank you for being my rock through all of this. I really appreciate all your support.”

I hug him tightly, feeling the warmth of his words. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Te amo (I love you)."

“Yo también te amo (I love you too),” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion.

He finally leaves to go tell the others, and I watch him go with my heart still full of excitement for what this meant for him.

❤️❤️

danny ramirez

Dean Thomas- The Space Between Us

Dean Thomas

Sixth Year at Hogwarts

After a long day of classes, dinner time had finally arrived. Having dropped off my books and parchments in my room, I made my way down to the Great Hall, eager to get some food in my stomach. Upon arriving, I scanned the Gryffindor table for Seamus and Dean, looking for the seats we usually occupied. Spotting one of my friends, I continued over and sat down across from him. Seamus looked up, and upon recognizing me, he gave a nod of acknowledgment before taking another bite of his meal.

— How was Herbology today? Did you have any luck with the Snargaluffs? — he asked after a few minutes, giving me a chance to get some food.

— No. Honestly, I think I’ve realized that I'm just not good at that subject, and that’s not going to change. — Seamus laughed mockingly, making me roll my eyes. — Anyway, where’s Dean? He was supposed to help me with an assignment after dinner. —

— I don’t know. — He shrugged, tossing a piece of almond into his mouth and catching it. — Probably in the dormitory, wallowing in his sorrows or something. Nothing new, really. —

— Did he fight with Ginny again? — I deduce within seconds, and Seamus nods, munching on another sugared almond. — Merlin... Never let me get into a toxic relationship like theirs. —

— I don’t think you have to worry about that as long as you’ve got your eyes on him. — He commented casually, causing me to look at him immediately, feeling a pang of discomfort. —

— Stop repeating that stupid thing. — I clenched my jaw, making him smile again. Seamus loved provoking these reactions from us for his own amusement. —

— Before I stop repeating it, you’ll have to accept what’s pretty obvious. Honestly, I’d rather have him with you than with Ginny. She’s great and all, but listening to the constant fights and complaints is getting old. Don’t you think? I say you’d make a perfect match. Don’t worry about the height difference; nothing we can’t fix. —

— Okay, Seamus, enough already. — I got up from the table with a complaint, quickly grabbing some portable food. — You can’t even let me eat in peace! —

— Oh, please, don’t be so dramatic. — He laughed even more, watching my actions. — Where are you going with all that food? Going to find Dean? — I rolled my eyes and flipped him off before turning my back and walking out of the Great Hall. — Tell him to enjoy his meal from me! —

I huffed at that last remark and continued on my way until I reached the entrance to the Gryffindor common room. After reciting the password, I walked in and stood there for a few seconds, debating whether to look for Dean or not. I hated that Seamus was right about my feelings for our best friend. I had tried to push them aside a million times, distance myself from him for a while, ignore the fact that he noticed someone else and that he hardly spent time with us anymore because he was chasing after Ginny Weasley. Yet all my efforts had been in vain, and here I was once more, setting aside my feelings to worry about Dean Thomas.

With a sigh, I continued up the stairs to the boys' dormitory. When I reached the door, I knocked a couple of times but got no response. I waited a few seconds and knocked again, but still, no one answered. I hesitated for a moment about whether to leave, but before doing so, I decided to open the door just a crack to make sure Dean wasn’t inside. I scanned the beds quickly and saw him sleeping in his bed, still in his uniform. I opened the door all the way, trying not to make any noise, and approached, placing the food I had brought on his bedside table. I wiped my hands and then took the blanket at the foot of the bed and covered him up. Once I had finished covering him, I took one last glance before turning to leave the room. However, I couldn’t do so, as I heard his groggy, sleepy voice calling out to me.

— (Y/N)... Is everything okay? What time is it? — I turned to see him sitting up in bed, yawning, and still covered with the blanket.

— Sorry... I came to bring you some food since you didn’t come down for dinner. Seamus said you’d probably be here. — He nodded, looking at the food and then at me.

— Thanks... You didn’t have to do that. Come, sit down. — He gestured with his head towards the bed, so I walked over and sat down beside him, leaning against the headboard. Dean reached for the two pieces of pumpkin pie and handed me one, which I accepted before taking a bite. He mimicked my action, and now that we were closer, I could see that his eyes were puffy as if he had been crying recently. I swallowed hard, feeling a tightness in my chest, but chose to remain silent for the next few minutes so we could eat in peace. When we finished, he took another piece of food while I hesitated about whether to speak or not. What was the right thing to say in a situation like this that hadn’t already been said?

— So... Are you okay? — Dean hesitated for a few seconds when he heard me speak, and I could feel his gaze on me. — It looks like you’ve been crying... I want to know if everything is alright. —

— Hmm. — He cleared his throat and shifted uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact. — I’m fine, nothing to worry about... —

— Alright. — I sighed, looking up at the ceiling to diffuse some of the attention between us. Then I stayed silent for a few more minutes, unsure of how to articulate my thoughts. — Listen, Dean, if this is about Ginny again, then you should think carefully about what you’re doing... I know you like her a lot, and that’s understandable. But if you’re going to be fighting every week over trivial things, then maybe it’s not worth being in a relationship. Seamus and I believe... — My sentence was cut off by Dean asking me to be quiet.

— That won’t be a problem anymore. — He cleared his throat while running a hand through his curls. — Ginny and I broke up today. —

— Oh... —

— Yeah. — He sighed, rubbing his eyes repeatedly without looking at me. — I think I'm finally done. Everything I did was wrong. If I tried to help her, it was a problem; if I acted a certain way, it was also a problem. I’m tired of competing for Ginny’s attention. She never takes her eyes off Harry. It’s like I’m just there to get his attention when she feels like it or to fill the void Harry left in her life. I don’t want to be second, (Y/N)... —

— I’m glad you made that decision then. — I smiled faintly, though it ended up looking more like a grimace. I took his hand, intertwining it with mine and giving it a squeeze. I then rested my head against his neck, and within seconds, I felt his head resting on mine and his hand holding mine affectionately. — You deserve to be loved the same way you love others, Dean. Ginny is an amazing person, but she doesn’t seem to be the right one for you. And that’s okay. We’re young, and we’re supposed to go through heartbreak and disappointments. I know it hurts right now, I do, but in time it won’t matter. — Dean sighed, closing his eyes and taking his time to process the words I was saying.

— I don’t know what I’d do without your advice and your affection... You’re too good for me. — I laughed at that and pushed him away slightly.

— It’s not that big of a deal, Thomas. I’m your friend; that’s what friends are for. —

— I’m not exaggerating. — He smiled wryly and tousled my hair, causing me to complain. — And I hope whoever you like is someone who truly deserves you. Never settle for less than you deserve, (Y/N). —

— Whoever I like? — I frowned, fixing my hair back into place. — I don’t like anyone. Where did you get that idea? —

— Seamus. — He shrugged nonchalantly, making my eyes widen and causing me to cough in surprise. — Relax. — He laughed loudly, seeing my reaction, and placed a hand on my back to soothe me. — It’s not that big of a deal! —

— What else did Seamus say? Did he tell you who the person is? —

— No. — He squinted at me. — He just said that you had your eyes on someone and that this someone was apparently too stupid to realize. —

— Oh... — I sighed in relief, feeling color return to my face.

— So... Are you going to tell me who the blind idiot is who hasn’t noticed you yet? You know we can do something about it if you want. —

Oh, Dean... If only you knew that you are the idiot.

— No. I don’t need help because Seamus is just being silly. I only said a guy was cute, and he’s made a big deal out of it. — I rolled my eyes and started fidgeting with my hands nervously.

— Sure, whatever you say. — He raised an eyebrow, watching my nervous hand movements, and then stopped them by taking both of my hands in his. — Anyway, I’ll find a way to figure out who it is. Whether you like it or not. — He smiled. — And if they’re not worth it, I’ll scare them off. We don’t want bad prospects in your life. Learn from me. —

— Since when do you have the right to scare off my romantic interests or whatever you want to call them? — I raised an eyebrow, and he laughed even more, moving a bit closer until our foreheads were almost touching and our breaths mingled. Dean, what on earth are you doing?

— Since the day you decided to call me your best friend. — He leaned in and placed a soft kiss on the tip of my nose. The gentle contact sent a shiver down my spine and a sudden rush of warmth to my cheeks. y heart raced, and a mix of surprise and turmoil surging through me. Why on earth would he do something like that? Did he even know the impact his actions had on me after so many years of being by each other sides? — Now stay a bit longer with me; I could use a distraction. —

He pulled away from me as quickly as he had come, and I stayed where I was for a few seconds, not moving. Dean settled back onto the bed, propping a pillow behind his back, and gestured for me to lie down against his chest. I looked at him for a moment, took a deep breath, and then accepted his invitation, resting my head on his chest. I could feel his heartbeat and the warmth radiating from his body. As much as I tried to resist, I couldn’t help but wish that every day could be like this. Him and me against the world. Together, holding each other, expressing our affection even in silence where words were unnecessary.

But even as I basked in this fleeting sense of intimacy, a sharp pang of reality hit me. Was I setting myself up for heartbreak by letting this continue? The more I allowed myself to be close to him, the deeper I was digging my own emotional hole, one that would likely leave me bruised if he never saw me the way I hoped he would. And even though the affection wasn’t the kind shared by two people who loved each other romantically, I was content knowing that Dean Thomas cared for me and needed me in his life as much as I needed him in mine.

A Taste of Italy- Joe Keery

Description: In a serendipitous turn of events, (Y/N) celebrates her birthday alone in Positano, only to find unexpected companionship and romance as she shares a day of cooking and exploring Positano's beauty with the charming Joe.

Warnings: None, Pure Fluff, Non-established relationship, RPF Fic

Word count: 2378

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The small, intimate kitchen was filled with laughter as (Y/N) stood uncomfortably in front of her designated table. Usually, she considered herself a social butterfly, but today, it felt like her social skills had been drained. She was still trying to get over the fact that her friend had missed their flight to Positano, Italy, after planning this whole day for so long. Instead, she found herself alone in a cooking class she had refused to cancel at the last minute.

The instructor, with a thick Italian accent, provided an overview of the class. Almost every ingredient was laid out in front of her, and a glass of wine stood invitingly on the table. She stared at it for a moment before taking a sip, savoring the various flavor notes on her tongue. As she was about to go for a second try, someone stood next to her, removing his sunglasses and fixing his messy hair while muttering an out-of-breath hello.

"I'm sorry. Do you mind if I station here?" the guy asked, noticing her glance.

"Oh, not at all. Make yourself comfortable," she replied with a smile as he put on his apron.

"Thank you. I almost didn’t make it, you know? The streets are so confusing around here. I’m still sweating," he said. (Y/N) genuinely laughed. He was a bit of a mess, but he didn’t seem to mind at all.

"You'll get used to it. Give it a day or two and you'll have them all memorized."

"Are you sure? I’ve been here for a week now. I think I'm past that point," he replied with a grin, his sunburned cheeks now making complete sense.

(Y/N) was about to respond when the instructor’s voice filled the space once again. It was time to learn about Italian cuisine. Soon, the small kitchen was filled with low lounge music and the aroma of homemade sauces mingled with aromatic herbs and light chatter. Joe and (Y/N) worked on their pasta, each having a different experience. While (Y/N) had a natural gift for cooking, Joe struggled to knead the flour and ingredients into a smooth ball. (Y/N) glanced over frequently, almost wanting to help, seeing him with flour on his face, his hair messier than before, and a funny frown of concentration.

"Um... Mind if I help?" she asked after a moment. He looked up, noticing she was about to cut her dough, and nodded sheepishly. "It’s easier if you use your knuckles and press down. I don't know the logistics, but it works." She moved closer and demonstrated. "See?"

"Uhh... Yeah. Let me try," he said, taking over the job again. "How do I keep it from being clumpy?"

"Just keep kneading. It’ll come together soon."

They continued working with concentration, engaging in constant chatter while flattening the pasta, cutting it, and spiraling it into balls to cook in the boiling water.

"I'm going to need another glass of wine at this rate," Joe exclaimed, placing his hands on his hips dramatically. (Y/N) laughed, shaking her head as she took both empty glasses and walked over to the counter to refill them. He smiled excitedly and thanked her as she handed him a glass, and she took a sip from hers.

"I'm Joe, by the way. Nice to meet you." He extended his hand for a formal greeting, regretting it almost immediately when he noticed his hand was covered in flour. However, (Y/N) smiled and shook his hand without hesitation, her own hand looking nearly as floury.

"(Y/N), pleasure to meet you."

Joe took a sip of his wine and leaned against the counter, glancing at the bubbling pot. "So, if I don’t mess this up, maybe I’ll actually be able to cook this at home. Though, I’ll probably end up with takeout pizza instead."

(Y/N) smiled, swirling her own glass. "Pasta’s easier than it looks. If you can navigate a new country solo, this should be a walk in the park."

"Who said I was traveling alone, though?" Joe's teasing made (Y/N) blink in surprise, feeling her face flush with embarrassment as his laugh and friendly tap on her arm made the situation worse. "I’m just joking. You’re right, though. But you’re giving me too much credit. I almost burned my kitchen down trying to make toast once."

"Toast? That’s impressive," she teased, trying to regain her composure. "I think you might be in the wrong class."

He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hey, everyone has their talents. That’s exactly why I’m here. My life motto is: When in Italy, be a new man."

"Oh my God," (Y/N) muttered, rolling her eyes with a smile as they noticed it was time to finish and assemble their first plate of pasta.

Everyone had the chance to plate their pasta, adding homemade sauces, grating some cheese, and sitting down to enjoy their creations while listening to local music and comedic stories from the chef.

Joe and (Y/N) sat together, savoring every bite of their simple yet satisfying meal. It felt like an explosion of flavors, enhanced by good company and an amazing ambiance. After such a delightful meal came (Y/N)’s most awaited part: Tiramisu.

Joe noticed the happiness on her face as she helped the chef assemble the dessert, having been pushed to volunteer. Tiramisu was her favorite dessert. After a fantastic demonstration, they all tasted the chef’s recipe, and Joe smiled widely seeing (Y/N) enjoy every bite with her eyes closed and muttering praises.

"Amazing, right?" he asked.

"Every time I come to Italy, I need to eat like a thousand of these. No questions asked," she replied with a satisfied grin.

"So, you're a regular traveler of these parts? Lucky girl."

"Not really," she said with a shrug. "I wish. But who has the money to come here often?" She laughed softly, unaware of Joe’s thoughtful expression. "It’s my second time, actually. Last time I spent two weeks traveling around Italy. One of the best experiences ever. This time is kind of different."

He leaned in slightly, intrigued. "Special occasion, or just a much-needed getaway?"

(Y/N) hesitated for a moment, then sighed with a sheepish smile. "Well… It’s actually my birthday today."

Joe’s eyes widened. "Wait, what? Your birthday?" His voice was full of surprise and warmth. "And you’re spending it here, in a cooking class?"

"Yeah, well… I actually love cooking," she chuckled. "My friend was supposed to be here, but she missed her flight. So, I’m making the most of it on my own."

"Well, happy birthday!" Joe said, lifting his wine glass in an impromptu toast. "You should’ve told me earlier! We could’ve made this a full-on celebration!"

(Y/N) laughed softly, clinking her glass against his. "It’s no big deal. Honestly, the day has been fun enough. And the food makes it worth it."

Joe looked at her with a lingering smile, as if something clicked in his mind. After the class finished, the two stood outside the small, rustic kitchen, the sun starting to dip behind the cliffs of Positano, casting golden hues across the town.

"Well, this was fun," (Y/N) said, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "Thanks for being such good company, Joe. I hope you have the best time for the rest of your stay."

"Yeah, same to you. Take care, (Y/N)..." he replied, but as she turned to leave, something tugged at him. He hesitated, watching her walk a few steps away, before suddenly calling out, "Hey, wait!"

She turned, eyebrows raised. "Yeah?"

Joe took a deep breath, stepping closer to her. "I was just thinking… You shouldn’t have to spend your birthday alone. I mean, not if you don’t want to."

(Y/N) tilted her head, intrigued. "What are you suggesting?"

He smiled, a little shyly at first but then with more confidence. "Why don’t we spend the rest of the day together? I know a few places around here that will make this a day you won’t forget. We can grab drinks, maybe hit the beach, whatever you want." He paused, looking sincere. "I promise you won’t regret it."

(Y/N) blinked, taken aback by his offer but touched by his spontaneity. She felt her hesitation melt away as she smiled and nodded. "Okay, so... lead the way."

They began their afternoon by renting bikes to explore the charming streets of Positano. As they pedaled through the winding roads, the vibrant, stacked houses and stunning water views unfolded around them. The town’s narrow streets were a delightful maze, with antique cars parked along the curbs and locals strolling leisurely.

(Y/N) found herself wobbling a bit on the bike, struggling with the numerous curves and inclines. She tried to hide her clumsiness, but Joe noticed her occasional near-falls. “Having a bit of trouble there?” he teased with a grin.

“Not at all,” (Y/N) replied, though her tight grip on the handlebars gave away her struggle. “I’m having the best time of my life.”

Joe chuckled, adjusting his pace to stay beside her. “You’re doing great!”

Their banter continued as they cycled past picturesque scenes and lively street vendors. The vibrant energy of Positano made their exploration both exhilarating and memorable.

After a while, they parked their bikes and walked along the beach, where she eagerly began collecting seashells. Joe watched her with an amused smile, noting her focused effort. “Is this something you always do?” he asked.

(Y/N) looked up, a handful of colorful shells in her hands. “Only sometimes. I’m kind of amazed by everything that comes from the ocean. So... yeah. Something special to have with me.”

Joe nodded. “Let me help you then.”

They finally arrived at a beachside café, the sun beginning to dip, casting a warm, golden light over the scene. Joe and (Y/N) found a quaint spot where local musicians played lively tunes. They settled at a table with refreshing drinks, taking in the ambiance and the stunning view. As the music gradually picked up its tempo, Joe couldn’t resist doing what was on his mind.

With a playful grin, he extended his hand to (Y/N). “Care to join me?”

At first, (Y/N) hesitated, but his infectious enthusiasm and the cheerful music coaxed her into the small open space in front of the café. As they danced, the rhythm carried them into a joyful, carefree moment. Joe attempted to teach (Y/N) a few dance steps, and she couldn’t help but tease him about his “unique” moves. Their laughter and playful banter filled the air.

As the music slowed, they found themselves in a quieter, more intimate moment. They exchanged stares filled with unspoken understanding, their connection deepening in the soft glow of the setting sun. It was a silent acknowledgment of the bond they were forming.

After their dance, Joe suggested they head to a secluded restaurant he knew about. Tucked away from the bustling tourist spots, it offered a cozy atmosphere with a stunning view of Positano’s twinkling lights. They enjoyed a delectable meal, and their conversation flowed effortlessly. Their genuine interest and attentiveness created a deeper connection as they discussed favorite foods, travel experiences, and personal aspirations.

“So, what kind of cake would you like for your birthday?” he asked, his eyes sparkling.

(Y/N) laughed softly, shaking her head. “Actually, I’m not much of a cake person. Gelato’s more my style.”

Joe’s face lit up with a bright grin. “Perfect! Then we’ll do gelato.”

Following dinner, he led (Y/N) to a charming gelato shop renowned for its rich and colorful flavors. As they entered, they both ordered their own cones with an assortment of flavors. With a playful flair, Joe thanked the cashier and turned to begin singing “Happy Birthday” in an endearingly off-key voice. Patrons in the shop glanced over with amused smiles as (Y/N) looked on, touched by the effort and attention.

With their gelato cones still in hand, they took a final, peaceful stroll along the same streets they had explored earlier. When they arrived at (Y/N)’s BnB, the moonlight bathed the entrance in a soft glow. They stood there, the tranquil night around them creating a serene backdrop. Joe took a deep breath, his gaze lingering on (Y/N) as he hesitated.

After a moment, he leaned in slightly, his eyes searching hers. The warmth of their shared day seemed to wrap around them like a blanket. Joe's hand gently grazed (Y/N)’s cheek, his fingers tracing the delicate curve of her face. His touch was soft and tentative, savoring every second of their close proximity.

“I’ve really enjoyed today,” he said, his voice low and sincere. “I know this will sound somewhat crazy, but... I was wondering...” He hesitated again, his hand moving to rest on her waist, pulling her just a fraction closer.

(Y/N) could feel her heart racing as she looked up at him. The intensity in his eyes matched the tenderness of his touch. “Wondering about what?” she managed to ask, her voice barely above a whisper.

Joe took another deep breath, his gaze roaming over her features—her eyes, her lips, the way the moonlight made her skin glow. “If maybe... we could do this again again sometime. Go out, explore more together.”

There was a charged silence as they both felt the weight of his words. Joe’s fingers lingered at her waist, his thumb gently brushing her hip. (Y/N) could see the hope and earnestness in his eyes, and she found herself drawn closer to him.

Finally, (Y/N) smiled, her eyes softening. “I’d like that very much.”

Joe’s smile widened, and he leaned in, closing the remaining distance between them. His hand gently cupped her face, his thumb brushing across her delicate jawline and placing finally his hand on her neck. Their kiss was soft and tender, an intimate connection heightened by the serene surroundings. The world seemed to fall away as they shared that perfect moment, each touch and caress magnified by the gentle moonlight.

As they pulled back, Joe looked at (Y/N) with a hopeful smile. “So, tomorrow sounds good?”

(Y/N) laughed softly, her heart full. “Yes, definitely.”

They parted with a warm, lingering hug, both feeling that this birthday had become a day to remember, filled with new beginnings and the promise of more to come.