As Valentine's Day drew closer in Evergreen Hollow, the town buzzed with romantic energy. Red hearts decorated shop windows, and couples walked hand in hand under the streetlights. Snow still covered the ground, but the air felt a bit warmer, like love was melting the winter chill. For Holly Winters, the days after the emotional storm at Rowan's house were filled with a new kind of hope. They had shared tears and confessions, admitting their feelings were real. No more fake dating—just the slow, careful steps toward something true. Holly felt it in her chest, a warm glow that made her smile at random moments during work. But she also felt nervous. What if they moved too fast? Rowan's heart was still healing, and Lily was part of it all.
Holly sat in her office one afternoon, matching clients for Valentine's dates. Her desk had a vase of fresh roses from a thankful couple. She sipped coffee, her mind on Rowan. Since that night on the couch, they texted more—simple things like "Good morning" or "Lily drew you a picture." It felt sweet, like building a bridge one plank at a time.
Her phone rang. It was Rowan. "Hey, Holly. Been thinking... want to go on a real date? Just us, no Lily, no fake stuff."
Holly's heart skipped. A real date? After all the slow build-up, it felt right. "Yes! I'd love that. When?"
"Tonight? I have a sitter. Pick you up at seven?"
"Perfect," she said, her voice bubbly.
After hanging up, Holly felt butterflies. This was it—their first official date. She rushed home after work to get ready. Her cottage was cozy, with a fire in the hearth and soft lights. She chose a simple black dress that hugged her curves, added a red scarf for color, and curled her red hair. Looking in the mirror, she touched her lips, remembering the cheek kisses and hugs. Tonight might bring more.
Outside, snow flurries danced in the air. Rowan's truck pulled up right on time. He stepped out, wearing a nice button-up shirt under his coat, jeans, and boots. His dark hair was neat, and he held a small bouquet of wildflowers—simple, like him.
"You look beautiful," he said, handing her the flowers. His blue eyes shone with nervousness.
"Thanks. You too—handsome," Holly replied, smelling the flowers. They smelled fresh, like the mountains.
He opened the truck door for her, a gentlemanly touch that made her smile. As they drove, the radio played soft music. Rowan glanced at her. "I booked a table at The Pine Lodge. Quiet place, good food."
The Pine Lodge was a rustic restaurant on the edge of town, with wooden walls, a big fireplace, and views of the snowy forest. It was known for romantic dinners. Holly felt excited. "Sounds perfect."
They arrived and were seated by a window. Candles flickered on the table, casting a warm glow. The menu had hearty meals like steak and pasta. They ordered—steak for him, salmon for her—and a bottle of red wine.
As they waited, Rowan reached across the table, taking her hand. His touch was warm, calloused from hockey. "I'm glad we're doing this. Real."
"Me too," Holly said, squeezing his hand. "After everything we've shared... it feels right."
Rowan nodded, his expression serious. "I've been scared. Anna's betrayal left me doubting. But with you, it's different. You make me want to try."
Holly's eyes softened. "I feel the same. My ex made me question love. But you and Lily... you're worth the risk."
They talked easily at first—about work, the team, Lily's school. But as the food came, the conversation deepened. Rowan cut his steak, looking thoughtful. "Tell me something about you I don't know. From childhood."
Holly thought, sipping wine. "When I was ten, I wanted to be a ballerina. Took lessons, but I was clumsy. Fell during a recital. Everyone laughed, but Jack and you clapped loudest."
Rowan smiled. "I remember. You were cute, all pink tutu and determination."
Holly laughed. "Your turn."
He paused. "Before hockey took over, I loved drawing. Landscapes, mostly. Stopped after Anna left—too busy."
Holly tilted her head. "You should start again. I'd love to see your art."
"Maybe," he said, a spark in his eyes.
As they ate, the emotional depth grew. Holly shared more about her ex. "He cheated with a friend. Found out on my birthday. Felt like the world ended."
Rowan's jaw tightened. "He was a fool. You're amazing."
Holly blushed. "Thanks. And Anna... her leaving must have felt worse."
Rowan set down his fork. "It did. But talking about it with you helps. Makes the pain less sharp."
They finished dinner with dessert—chocolate cake to share. Rowan fed her a bite, playful. Laughter filled the air, lightening the mood.
After paying, they stepped outside. Snow fell gently, covering everything in white. Rowan took her hand. "Walk in the woods? There's a path."
"Yes," Holly said.
The path was lit by lanterns, trees heavy with snow. It was quiet, magical. They walked slowly, arms linked.
"Holly," Rowan said, stopping under a big pine. "This date... it's the best I've had in years."
"Mine too," she whispered.
He turned to her, cupping her face. His thumbs brushed her cheeks. Emotions swirled—fear, hope, desire. "Can I kiss you? For real."
Holly nodded, heart pounding. "Yes."
He leaned in, his lips meeting hers softly. The kiss was gentle at first, tentative. Then it deepened, his arms around her waist, hers around his neck. It tasted of wine and chocolate, filled with pent-up feelings. Holly felt sparks, like fireworks in her soul. Rowan's kiss was passionate yet careful, showing his care.
They pulled back, breathless. Foreheads touched.
"Wow," Holly said.
"Yeah," Rowan agreed, smiling.
They walked back, holding hands tighter. In the truck, they talked more, emotions raw.
At her door, Rowan kissed her again, slower. "Goodnight, Holly. See you soon."
"Goodnight," she said, floating inside.
The next days, the date lingered. Holly felt giddy at work. Rowan texted: "Miss you already."
They planned more time— a movie night with Lily, keeping balance.
One evening, snowed in again at his house. They cuddled, kissing more. Emotions deepened with each touch.
Jack noticed. "You two official?"
Holly smiled. "Yeah. First date was perfect."
The slow burn flamed higher, but steady.