Hanna couldn’t deny that spending time with Marco was a relief. His calm, steady presence felt like a balm after the turbulence with Finn, and his genuine interest in her life and feelings was exactly what she needed. Marco made her laugh, took her mind off things, and best of all, he never pushed her. The more time she spent with him, the more she found herself wondering if she could truly move on.
One afternoon after school, Marco surprised her by stopping by her locker with a single daisy in hand, grinning as he handed it to her.
“For you, my lady,” he said with a mock bow, his eyes warm.
Hanna laughed, feeling her cheeks heat. “You know, you don’t have to do all this.”
“Sure I do,” he replied, slipping his hand into hers as they walked down the hall together. “Because you deserve it.”
Her heart fluttered at his words, and she squeezed his hand, feeling a spark of happiness she hadn’t felt in a long time. They walked past Finn, who was standing at his locker, watching them with a look she couldn’t quite read. She forced herself to look away, ignoring the pang in her chest.
Later, when she joined her friends in the courtyard, Emily pulled her aside with a concerned look.
“So… you and Marco. Things are official now?”
Hanna nodded, a small smile on her face. “Yeah. He makes me feel… happy. Isn’t that what matters?”
Emily hesitated, her expression a mix of worry and sympathy. “Of course, Han. I just… I don’t want you to rush into this. Especially with… well, you know.”
Hanna brushed it off, laughing lightly. “Don’t worry, Em. I’m fine.”
She laughed, but noticed the faint note of concern in Emily’s eyes. “I just… I think I need someone like him right now. He’s—”
“Safe?” Emily filled in gently, giving her a sympathetic look.
“Yeah,” Hanna said softly. “Safe.”
Later, as they walked out of the lunchroom, she noticed Finn standing alone by his locker, his gaze following her and Marco with an intensity that made her heart ache. But she forced herself to keep walking, letting Marco’s hand in hers guide her away. She’d made her choice.