Ste was about to refuse, but Abby chimed in, "Come on, Star, let''s get out for a bit. Staying cooped up in your room all day isn''t good for you. You need some fresh air."
Abby had always been the restless type, and after so many days indoors, she was itching to get out.
Seeing the eager excitement in Abby''s eyes, Ste finally gave in and nodded.
From that point on, Foreman took charge of their ns. He wanted to make sure Ste was safe at all times.
Sandford was famous for its many tourist attractions, and Foreman had made arrangements in advance to clear out any unnecessary crowds. The result was that, apart from the three of them, the scenic spots were empty. But being able to finally get out and wander around genuinely lifted Ste''s spirits.
Abby, on the other hand, was in her element-she practically burst with energy, snapping picture after picture as if she were documenting every step.
By the evening, after hours of exploring, they decided to head to dinner together.
The restaurant they chose was well-known as a romantic date spot, packed with couples enjoying the cozy atmosphere.
While eating, Ste, Abby, and Foreman witnessed a proposal unfold right at the next table. Abby, a hopeless romantic, was over the moon-she pped and cheered along with the other guests, caught up in the excitement of the moment.
When the newly-engaged woman turned to look around, her gazended on Ste and Foreman. Smiling warmly, she crossed the room and offered her bouquet to Ste, passing on her happiness.
"You two make such a stunning couple," the woman said sincerely. "I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together."
It was true-Ste and Foreman easily stood out as the most striking pair in the room. They looked effortlessly good together, a fact that didn''t escape anyone''s notice.
A flush of embarrassment crept onto Ste''s face. She hurried to exin, "Oh, actually, we''re not-"
But before she could finish, Foreman stepped in and epted the bouquet with a charming smile. "Thank you," he replied smoothly.
The attention in the restaurant instantly shifted. The crowd, previously cheering for the newly-engaged couple, now turned their eyes-and their teasing to Ste and Foreman.
"Give her a kiss!" someone shouted, and others quickly picked up the chant. Foreman knew Ste would be mortified. With an easyugh, he addressed the crowd, "My girlfriend''s a little shy, so a hug will have to do."
He gently wrapped his arms around Ste, leaning in to whisper, "Just ying along no need to worry."
After a polite, gentlemanly hug, he let her go. The crowd cheered, offering their congrattions, but soon lost interest and returned to their own celebrations.
Ste, still blushing, let the moment pass without further protest.
After dinner, Foreman suggested they go watch the fireworks, but Ste shook her head. "I''m pretty tired today," she said, "I''d rather head
back and rest. Maybe we can see
the fireworks another time.
Truthfully, Ste couldn''t shake the awkwardness she felt around Foreman tonight. The whole evening had felt ufortably like a date, and she was grateful for Abby''s presence to break up the tension. Still, something about this night felt different from any of their previous dinners together.
Foreman didn''t press her when she wanted to leave. "No problem," he said. "I''II drive you both back to the hotel."
When they pulled up to the entrance, Ste and Abby stepped out of the car. As Foreman got out as well Ste stopped him. "You don''t need to walk us in," she said. "We''be fine on our own."
Foreman shook his head. "Better safe than sorry. Besides, it''s not far. And the wind''s picking up-you two should get inside."
He almost offered her his jacket, but held back; he knew Ste would never ept and would probably only pull further away. That thought lingered, a shadow in his eyes.
But soon, things would be different-he was sure of it.
They crossed the lobby together, passing by a staff member in a crisp uniforming from the other direction.