**Chapter 9: "The Morning After"**

Dorothy woke up to the sound of birds chirping outside the window, their sweet melodies filling the air. She slowly opened her eyes, trying to remember where she was. As she looked around, she saw Lucas's familiar face smiling at her, and her memories came flooding back. They had kissed, and...well, things had gotten a lot more intimate after that. She felt a little uncertain, a little vulnerable, and she wasn't sure how to process her emotions. Lucas seemed to sense her unease, and he reached out to gently brush a strand of hair out of her face. "Hey, how are you feeling?" he asked, his voice low and soothing. Dorothy took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. "I'm...I'm okay, I think," she said, her voice a little shaky. Lucas smiled and pulled her into a gentle hug. "It's okay to feel a little uncertain," he said. "I know things got pretty intense last night." Dorothy nodded, feeling a little more at ease. She had to admit, she had enjoyed herself. Lucas was a great kisser, and...well, everything else had been pretty great too. As they lay there in bed, Lucas started to talk, his voice gentle and reassuring. "I want you to know that I value our relationship, and I want to take things slow. I don't want you to feel like you're being rushed into anything." Dorothy smiled, feeling a little more at ease. She had been worried that Lucas might be expecting more from her, that he might be looking for something more serious. "I appreciate that," she said, her voice sincere. "I have to admit, I'm a little...uncertain about everything." Lucas nodded, his eyes locked on hers. "I get it," he said. "We're taking things one step at a time. No pressure, no expectations. Just...us, getting to know each other." Dorothy felt a surge of gratitude towards Lucas. He was easy to talk to, easy to be around, and she was starting to feel a strong connection to him. As they lay there in bed, Dorothy started to feel a little more comfortable, a little more at ease. She realized that she was having a great time, that she was enjoying Lucas's company. "So, what do you want to do today?" Lucas asked, his voice low and smooth. Dorothy thought for a moment, trying to decide. "I'm not sure," she said. "What did you have in mind?" Lucas smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Well, I was thinking we could grab some breakfast, maybe take a walk around the city. Just...hang out, you know?" Dorothy nodded, feeling a little more excited. She was starting to feel like she was getting to know Lucas, like she was discovering new things about him. As they got out of bed and started to get dressed, Dorothy felt a sense of anticipation. She was excited to see what the day might bring, excited to spend more time with Lucas. And as they walked out of the apartment, hand in hand, Dorothy knew that she was in for a great adventure. She was taking a chance on Lucas, and on herself, and she was excited to see where things might go.