Oh my gosh, I can't even describe how much I adore Ben and how absolutely amazing the play was! I was a bundle of nerves the entire time, but it turned out to be such a blast! I can't stop smiling just thinking about it. And now, I'm so excited for the picnic! I can hardly wait!

Seriously, what an exciting experience! I knew everything would go according to plan, but Ben seemed to feel otherwise... Thankfully, I was right, and everything went off without a hitch! Ben is just incredible; it feels like he magically knows exactly what I want and just makes it happen perfectly.

I can be a bit of a control freak sometimes, I admit it, but with Ben, it's different. He really brings out the best in me, and together, we were able to create something really wonderful. Ben is so kind and fun to be around, it's a wonder he doesn't have more friends. No matter, I'm sure I can help him get out of his shell eventually!

Later that week, I headed over to Émilie's house, bubbling with excitement about the upcoming picnic. As I knocked on her door, I could hardly contain myself. When she opened the door, her warm smile made me feel right at home.

"Hey, Anya! You look extra cheerful today!" she said, ushering me inside.

"Thanks! You won't believe how amazing the play went! And now I have so much to tell you about the picnic!" I exclaimed, practically bouncing on my feet.

We settled in her cozy living room, filled with soft pillows and the scent of fresh-cut flowers. I couldn't wait to dive into picnic planning. "So, what do you think we should bring? I was thinking of some classic sandwiches and maybe fruit?"

Émilie looked thoughtful. "Sandwiches sound great! We could do a mix-some with turkey and cheese, and maybe some veggie ones for variety. And definitely fruit! What about those cute little fruit kabobs?"

"Yes! That's perfect!" I beamed. "We could make some colorful skewers with grapes, strawberries, and melon. It'll look adorable!"

"Adorable! And for dessert, how about those brownies you love? I can whip up a batch," she suggested, and I could already taste them melting in my mouth.

"Oh, yes! Brownies are a must! And maybe some lemonade to wash it all down?" I added, feeling the excitement build.

"Lemonade is a great idea! We should also have a blanket to spread out on the grass. It'll be so nice to relax there," she said, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"I can't wait! It's going to be such a fun day. Just the four of us, good food, and hopefully some sunshine!" I said, feeling grateful to have Émilie as my picnic partner.

As we finalized our plans, I could feel the anticipation and excitement bubbling up and radiating throughout my body. This picnic was going to be the cherry on top of an already incredible week.

On my way home, I couldn't shake the feeling that Ben was becoming more than my friend, but he couldn't possibly be my best friend either; that's Émilie's place. I think I like him, a lot.