A broad smile adorns his face as we disembark, indicating his desire to ride once more. We proceed to the photo booth at the conclusion of the ride, and I find myself in fits of laughter upon viewing our picture. I am grinning maniacally with my arms elevated, while Jadi exhibits a visage of sheer horror, his eyes and mouth agape in fear.
“I am purchasing it,” I chuckle, Jadi’s ears reddening in mortification. “I will frame it.”
He shakes his head in dismay, as if imploring me not to purchase it, yet I return his gaze with firmness.
“This is an image of your inaugural roller coaster,” I exclaim. “I wish to retain the memory of being the individual who shared that moment with you.”
His face becomes redder than a tomato, with the corners of his mouth subtly curling into a faint smile. Pleased to retain the picture, I provide the payment to the clerk and obtain two copies of our photograph.
“Now I shall forever recall the expression on your face,” I jest, placing the photographs into my handbag before he can retrieve them.
We experience several further roller coasters, with Jadi apprehensive about each one, yet emerging from every ride with an infectious smile.
I observe a cotton candy kiosk and purchase two enormous servings of cotton candy for us, while Jadi gazes at the sizable pink confection with a perplexed expression.
“Open your mouth,” I chuckle, ripping a fragment of his cotton apart. He reluctantly complies with my instructions, gradually leaving his lips agape. “Extend your tongue.”
He obediently complies, and I place the small cotton confection on his tongue, his eyes illuminating with delight akin to a child’s joy at Christmas as the candy dissolves, leaving a sugary residue.
“Do you appreciate it?” “I enquire, as Jadi nods his head and pinches a tuft of fluff from my confection.” He extends it towards me, and I arch an eyebrow in response. “Do you wish to provide me sustenance?” “I inquire.”
He flushes crimson once more and averts his sight in embarrassment, as remorse swiftly envelops my thoughts.
Ricky, why are you so unpleasant? I reprimand myself, parting my lips and inclining towards him.
His fingers trembles slightly as he places the small puff in my mouth, the sugar dispersing across my taste buds. He smiles apprehensively, prompting me to reciprocate with a smile and raise my eyebrows to alleviate the uncomfortable atmosphere between us.
“I propose we experience the Ferris wheel,” I assert, guiding him towards the colossal structure at the park’s terminus.
A young operator welcomes us and permits us into the little cage, while Jadi clutches the sides as it sways during our ascent.
“Calm down, wolf,” I laugh. “It is expected to sway slightly.” Simply recline and appreciate the scenery.
As if predetermined, we arrive at the apex of the Ferris wheel, surveying the entire park, his breath catching upon witnessing the breathtaking vista.
“It is aesthetically pleasing, is it not?” I exhale audibly, gazing at the luminous stars embellishing the sky. “I could remain here for hours simply observing the stars.”
I perceive his stare fixate on me, and I turn to meet his eyes, my face reddening upon witnessing the affectionate expression therein. I turn my face to conceal my embarrassment, recline on our seats, and observe the moon for a moment, while listening to the laughing emanating from the park.
Jadi cautiously approaches me, extending his arms in a yawn. I strive to suppress my giggles as he meticulously positions his arm behind my seat, aware that his face is likely flushed as he evades my gaze.
Perceiving no significant detriment in indulging him in his minor pursuit, I incline my body towards his, resting my head on his shoulder and placing my hand on his chest. His body stiffens with trepidation as I delineate patterns on his expansive chest, my heart burdened by the realisation that he is probably enduring trauma similar to that of the girls at the clinic.
“I appreciate today,” I whisper, averting my gaze to escape the temptation of kissing him. “I have never observed Bray in such a state of happiness.” That is the most exceptional present anyone could have bestowed upon me.
I nestle beside him, permitting him to encircle me with his arms. He exudes warmth and strength, prompting me to briefly envision what it would entail to belong to him.
Initially, the notion is soothing, providing me with reassurance that Bray would have a paternal figure to admire; nevertheless, akin to every prospective relationship I consider, the pervasive anxiety of treachery engenders a cloud of uncertainty. Although Jadi and Bray appear to have a harmonious relationship, it is inevitable that Jadi will eventually desire a puppy of his own. What will occur if I find it difficult to provide him with one? Will he discover another partner, leaving me to reconstruct my heart once more?
