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The air crackled with unspoken emotions, a palpable tension hanging between Ava and Alex in the quiet of the living room. They sat close, the space between them filled with a mixture of longing and hesitation.

Ava gathered her courage, her heart pounding as she looked at Alex. " I've been thinking... about us " she began, her voice steady but tinged with vulnerability.

Alex listened intently, his eyes fixed on her, waiting for her next words.

" I know things have been complicated, and I've been distant " Ava continued, her gaze locked with his. " But I don't want to keep avoiding what's between us "

Alex nodded slowly, a mixture of hope and apprehension evident in his expression. " I've felt it too, Ava. I've missed being close to you, your presence, laughter, everything " he admitted, his voice tinged with sincerity.

Their eyes held a silent conversation, speaking volumes about the unspoken emotions that had been simmering beneath the surface for far too long.

" I want to try, Alex "