Shanley was leaning against his car door, dressed in a black trench coat with his long legs crossed. His deep eyes gazed thoughtfully into the distance. The golden sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting a dappled, hazy light on his face, making him look exceptionally striking.
This man… was actually quite handsome.
Juniper found herself staring, lost in thought.
Until Shanley sensed someone behind him and turned his head, his eyes meeting her captivated gaze.
"Juniper, over here," Shanley said, straightening up and waving her over.
Juniper licked her lips and obediently walked over to him.
"Did you run?" Shanley's eyes lowered, noticing the faint sheen of perspiration on the tip of her nose. He gently brushed it with his finger. "Walk slowly next time. I won't leave until you get here."
Juniper's first instinct was to pull away from his touch, but in the end, she didn't move. It seemed… she didn't mind his closeness.
"It's hot out here. Let's talk in the car." Shanley opened the car door, carefully guiding her inside.
The car was empty. On the small table in the back, a spread of snacks was laid out, all prepared just for her.
Juniper's eyes lit up, a warm feeling spreading through her.
"Do you have evening classes?" Shanley asked softly as he opened a small packet of mango-flavored biscuits for her and placed a straw in her milkshake.
"Mmm-hmm." Juniper nodded as she ate. When a crumb got on her face, Shanley would gently wipe it away.
"You seem to be in a good mood today," Shanley remarked with a slight smile, noticing the hint of a grin on her lips.
"It's alright." Juniper's delicate eyebrows arched as the sweet milkshake melted on her tongue. Finding her brother, having a family… it was a pretty good feeling.
"Eat slowly," Shanley said, dabbing her mouth with a napkin, his gaze impossibly gentle. "If you like these, I can bring them to you every day."
Every day?

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