#Chapter 243: A Night of Romance

"T-Timothy?" I stuttered, the streetlight casting a soft glow on his features. "I'm sorry for startling you," Timothy said, his voice carrying a hint of worry. "I wanted to surprise you, but I guess this was ill-timed all things considered. I also wanted to check on you and see if you were okay." I exhaled a breath I hadn't realized I was holding, the tension in my shoulders easing slightly at the sight of my friend. "I... I'm fine. Just a long day at work, that's all." Timothy's brow furrowed, his concern evident. "Are you sure? I wasn’t trying to scare you. I kind of just turned up, but I’d be lying if I said was wasn’t worried about you all day." Relief washed over me, and I smiled at him. "That’s sweet, and I promise I’m fine. What’s all this?” He held out a bouquet of delicate roses, their petals vibrant against the night. "These are for you. I thought they might brighten your evening." I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks as I accepted the flowers. "You didn't have to do th