Over the next few weeks, Liam became her escape. They explored hidden corners of the city, shared picnics in Prospect Park, and spent hours lost in conversation. He showed her his favourite photography spots, taught her the basics of astrophotography, and even convinced her to go kayaking on the East River (an experience she initially regretted, but later came to cherish).
She, in turn, introduced him to her favourite indie bookstore, dragged him to a particularly obscure art exhibit, and shared her secret stash of artisanal ice cream. They discovered a shared love for cheesy 80s movies and a mutual disdain for avocado toast.
Their connection deepened, not through carefully constructed online personas, but through shared experiences, genuine vulnerability, and a surprising amount of laughter. They weren't living the curated #LoveSummer life, but they were building something real, something messy, something beautiful.