Violet's mother had woken her and Noah countless times, but never so awkwardly as that morning. This time, her mom knew they were dating and likely assumed they'd been more intimate than they actually had been.
Violet felt wronged. They had literally just fallen asleep! Nothing else had happened!
She couldn't shake her mother's knowing smile. Like an itch she couldn't scratch, the thought bothered her throughout physical therapy and even later, while watching Noah teach his after-school classes.
She'd never considered moving out after becoming an adult. The penthouse was her home, and had been since birth. But after this morning's awkwardness, could she maintain her composure around her parents?
Her father would undoubtedly buy her a lavish apartment if she mentioned wanting to move out. The question was whether it was the right time.
Her parents would know she was doing it for privacy with Noah, which would be terribly embarrassing. Worse, he might think the same. She wasn't ready for thatโnot when kissing was still somewhat awkward.
She'd essentially decided to spend her life with him, so they would need a place together eventually, but now was definitely too soon. Still, she couldn't deny it would be nice to avoid constant back-and-forth visits.
Lost in thought, she didn't notice class ending until Noah sat beside her.
"What are you thinking about?"
His unexpected voice made her jump. "Geez, you scared me!"
Admitting her thoughts was embarrassingโhe'd know the reasonโbut she didn't want to lie. They'd always been honest (except for Noah hiding his feelings for over a decade).
"Actually I was wondering if I should move out of my parents' place," Violet admitted, squeezing her eyes shut from embarrassment. She didn't want to see his reaction. What if he thought she wanted to sleep with him? Her intentions were innocentโfor now.
He surprised her by replying casually, "I've been wondering the same thing. It's been easier to stay home, but twenty-four is a bit old to live with your parents."
Violet was both confused and relieved. His nonchalant tone removed the pressure she'd felt. He made it sound like a natural part of growing up, not a consequence of their relationship.
But if he planned to marry her someday, there was no point in them both getting separate apartments. One could move out for privacy when needed, while the other remained at home when it wasn't.
Logically, Violet should move out. Her father could afford prime real estate far better than Noah could on his salary.
They'd only been dating a little over a month; why was she already thinking about the future? Then again, her decision was already made.
She knew Noah as well as herself. The only real obstacle was physical attraction. He was handsome, but she'd only recently seen him as anything other than family, so she was still adjusting.
"That makes sense," Violet said. "I'm sure my dad will help me find a place. We could mostly hang out there, but you wouldn't need to move."
Noah smiled at her discomfort. "Sounds like a good idea, Vi. Would you mind helping with some registration forms? My next class is about to start."
He kissed her head before leaving, and she relaxed. He wasn't going to tease her; that wasn't his style. There was a reason he was her favorite personโshe got far too much teasing from her brothers.
Violet worked diligently on the forms. The rest of the day passed slowly; she longed to be back in her own field. Paperwork wasn't as enjoyable as dancing.
Her physical therapy progress was slow but steady. They said she should regain full function within two months, after which she'd need dance rehabilitation. That seemed so far away!
She sighed and stretched as the dojo neared closing. Noah disappeared to change. His aunt was visiting, and he had a family dinner.
He emerged in a nice button-down shirt and slacksโa departure from his usual casual wear. Violet's heart skipped a beat. She quickly kissed him and told him to have fun as they left.
Noah smiled contentedly, promising to see her tomorrow. His happiness was one of her favorite things about their new relationship.
Violet headed home, humming cheerfully.
(The final paragraph about website theft is irrelevant to the text itself and has been omitted.)