Forbidden Cravings

The amusement park was a glittering wonderland below us, its lights twinkling like a sea of stars as Aeri and I stepped into the Ferris wheel cabin. *Tap*—my foot hit the metal floor, and Aeri followed close behind, her black mini skirt swishing as she moved.

"Yoshh..." she said, exhaling dramatically as she plopped onto the cushioned bench across from me. "Finally, the giant wheel!" Her voice was bright, her eyes sparkling with excitement, her cat ear headband looks intact.

I couldn’t help but smile, my heart warming at how happy she looked. Her tight white t-shirt hugged her curves, the open black shirt adding a casual edge, and her enthusiasm lit up the small cabin. The space felt cozy, spacious enough for just the two of us, with large glass windows offering a view of the park below.

I settled onto the bench opposite her, my knees brushing hers as we got comfortable.

"Please enjoy the ride, sir and ma’am," a young female worker said, her ponytail bouncing as she gave us a polite bow. She flashed a friendly smile before shutting the cabin door with a soft click, sealing us into our little world.

The Ferris wheel hummed to life, the cabin swaying gently as it began its slow climb. The motion was smooth, almost dreamlike, and the view through the glass grew wider with every second. The park sprawled out beneath us—rides spinning, lights flashing, and the distant laughter of the crowd blending with the faint music floating up from below.

"Woah, it looks so beautiful," Aeri said, her voice soft with awe. She pressed her palm against the glass, her eyes wide as she took in the sight. The neon glow of the roller coasters and food stalls painted her face in shades of pink and blue, her hair catching the light as it fell over her shoulder.

"Look, Ezra, look!" she said, turning to me, her smile so big it could’ve outshone the entire park.

"Yeah... it is indeed beautiful," I said slowly, my voice quieter than I meant.

My eyes drifted from the view to her, the woman sitting across from me. The park was stunning, sure, but it was nothing compared to Aeri. The way her eyes sparkled, the way her lips curved when she smiled—it hit me hard, like always. My chest tightened, and before I could stop myself, I added, "You’re the most beautiful one, though..."

Aeri’s head snapped toward me, her gaze softening instantly. Her lips parted, and for a moment, she just stared, her eyes glistening like she might cry.

"Ezra..." she whispered, her voice trembling, barely audible over the soft hum of the Ferris wheel.