The city was waking slowly, bathed in the soft glow of dawn as River and Lila sat side by side on their small balcony. The scent of blooming cherry trees drifted on the morning breeze, mingling with the quiet hum of a new day beginning.
They didn't need words. Just the shared silence of two hearts beating in time was enough — a calm before the whirlwind of what was to come.
---
River sipped his coffee, watching Lila's fingers absentmindedly tracing circles on the worn wooden railing.
"You've changed so much," she said softly, breaking the stillness.
He smiled, eyes meeting hers. "Not as much as you."
Lila laughed quietly, a sound that made his chest swell with warmth.
---
They talked about their first days at the new university — the excitement, the nerves, and the surprises that came with stepping into unknown worlds. Each challenge had tested them, but their love had been the steady anchor.
"I never thought I could be this happy," River admitted. "Even when things got hard, you made it worth it."
Lila leaned her head on his shoulder. "We built this together. Every step."
---
Later that week, River surprised Lila with tickets to a small art exhibit — a collection from emerging artists inspired by nature and youth. Lila's eyes sparkled as she wandered among the paintings, soaking in the colors and stories.
"This is what I want," she said, voice full of conviction. "To create, to inspire."
River squeezed her hand. "And I'll be right there with you."
---
The days turned into weeks, filled with late-night talks, shared dreams, and the quiet moments that stitched their lives ever closer.
One evening, as the cherry blossoms began to fall, River pulled Lila close.
"No matter where life takes us," he whispered, "this — you and me — is my forever."
Lila smiled, tears shining. "Forever."
---
Under the fading petals and rising stars, River and Lila knew their story was just beginning — a promise carried in every breath, every heartbeat, every moment beneath the cherry lights.