#Chapter 44: The Girl Behind the Mask

Celeste We were on the road for a while, the town’s lights slowly fading behind us, and the rhythmic hum of the car was almost hypnotizing. I found myself glancing at Matt every so often, catching his profile in the dim glow of the dashboard. I could sense an easiness about him, a calm that made me feel comfortable. “So,” I finally said, breaking the silence, “where are we going for our date?” Matt glanced at me, a playful smile on his lips. “I’m taking you to a nice restaurant outside of town that overlooks the ocean,” he said. “I thought it might be a place where you could feel comfortable, away from the gossips in town.” I looked at him, surprised. “You did?” He nodded, his eyes on the road. “I could tell that you like your privacy. I wanted to pick a spot for you that would make you feel at ease.” I couldn’t help but smile at this, feeling a warmth spread through me. It was as though Matt was being incredibly considerate of my wishes. I appreciated it m