Chapter 22: You're a coward

The rekindling of Annie and Finn's relationship was a wonderful development. However, Finn's newfound closeness at times made Annie a bit withdrawn and hesitant. Having never been in a romantic relationship, let alone being physically close to a man, Annie struggled to adapt to Finn's sudden shift from being distant to gentle.

For instance, this afternoon, Annie and Finn leisurely sat together on a swing, comfortably reclining on a soft cushion behind them. Annie lazily closed her eyes, savoring the sensation of each breeze caressing her ears and hair, as if blowing away the burdens of everyday life.

They sat there well into the late afternoon, with the chilly autumn breeze bringing a shiver into the air. Annie wore a thin, long-sleeved dress, so her exposed legs felt a slight tremor in the cool air. She thought about getting up to fetch an additional blanket, and it seemed that Finn noticed her intention as he gracefully turned and gently urged her to remain seated.

Subsequently, Fin