Serena's POV.

I thought we'd be heading to a fancy restaurant, but Ross parked in a secluded spot near a gentle stream.

He turned to me, his eyes sparkling. "Ready?" he asked, and I nodded, smiling.

I reached for the door handle, but Ross said, "Wait." I nodded, curious.

He got out of the car and opened my door, offering his hand.

"Learn to let the gentleman do the work," he said with a grin.

I chuckled, thinking about how my life had been far from traditional. My mom had taught me to be strong and independent, given my dad wasn't in the picture.

I didn't know what it was...