The next morning I was up at eight–but not for class.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecWzzJDtvh
I told Zion and Sid I would join them for breakfast, and Sid had class a little earlier.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZT3V2MyOVI
I didn't really mind being up early since I went to bed at a decent time— especially after Nine left once we finished dinner.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGv87gl6eCB
I made my bed as usual, folding the gray cover that I slept with over my comforter and texting Nine I had woken up since she specified to do so.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbp3R7KDUZW
I also texted Kai back who sent me a few TikTok and asked about my plans tonight, but I decided not to make any with her since I knew Nine probably already had plans in mind for us.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9oQnptXiq
Then I got dressed in leggings and a sweatshirt, sliding on a pair of Uggs since I was only going to Zion and Sid's for breakfast.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡibovTz37DO
I did my skincare and pulled my hair into a decent bun, not putting in any extra effort.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpqHvWyxp1Z
As I was leaving my apartment, I unconsciously checked my phone for a text back from Nine.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4lcTH1qoCw
But there was nothing.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUnXiujWpv
It had barely been an hour, so I had determined I was growing concerningly needy for her attention.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6LceYJe6Fl
Especially since all I could think about was her during my drive to Zion and Sid's.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnCMIVV5gTQ
My heart nearly shot up in my chest when her contact displayed on the digital radio screen, indicating she was calling me rather than texting back.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoPqTNArCs1
"Good morning" I spoke first as a smile grew on my lips.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYcTip02Idu
"Someone's very happy this morning" her smooth voice echoed through my car.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi7vSRriX50
I hummed, "It's a perfect morning" I determined excitedly, "I'm headed over to Zion and Sid's now for breakfast."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLHRtqfvM3
"What are you having?" Nine asked me as I flicked on my signal to turn left.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf3XNC2yaBh
"Uhhh Sid is making Belgian waffles," I said, focusing on the road, "You know, like with the waffle maker and stuff," I tried my best to explain, smiling at how funny I sounded.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ37MoFkq6bx
"I do know, River" she said, almost amused by my words, "Have you drank water yet?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7U2DlLwRaw
I nodded, "I have—I drank the bottle I left on my nightstand last night" I quickly explained, slowing down when I noticed the speed limit changed for the more residential area.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVyJnLEuy6V
"Good girl" Nine calmly said, making me purse my lips tightly together.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6gyi546R1L
Along with my legs.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ678Vr4b5tF
"What are your plans for the day?" she asked when I remained silent.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9sFJSmQPx
"Probably just the gym and I guess I'll work on my paper for software engineering" I told her as I flicked on my signal and turned down another street.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd6m4sXfmYU
"Sounds very productive, River" she murmured, making a small smile grow on my lips.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJfTF7MFOu
"It does, doesn't it?" I said, thinking about how much of a three-sixty my life recently took, "What about you? What are your plans for today?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojxIXK6Lc9
"The usual" she said, as I turned into the apartment complex parking lot, "A few patients and files to look over."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh7NusQTLzN
"Has Sienna bothered you yet?" I decided to ask her, pursing my lips when my smile grew.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW75PG9udAW
"Only with a coffee and patient files" Nine calmly said, making me roll my eyes.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecK35q1Hz2
"Of course, she gets you coffee" I mumbled as I pulled into the open parking spot.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXViznxgxoP
"I'll get my coffee from now on" she determined, picking up on the clear hostility of my words.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIwlYebcvwE
"Nine Luccino? Getting her own coffee?" I said, dramatically gasping to myself, "What kind of sick world is this?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zhnSv2Xtj
My heart nearly shot up in my chest when I heard her soft chuckle echo from the speakers.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9LMLFNj6jB
I made her laugh.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Jdo2wgcpq
I just... she totally just laughed.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUGRhE4dro
And it was so pretty—probably the softest sound I've ever heard.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLJoYPsJFrH
Ugh, why couldn't this have happened in person?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiDk9aNAs86
Now I'll have to imagine the face she made.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHC2AScbISX
What her smile looks like...
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgfqHUXKIBg
I blinked a few times, realizing I was being weirdly silent, "Sienna's going to be so upset when you walk in with your coffee" I suddenly spoke again, unbuckling my seatbelt, "Can you get her reaction on camera?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjVqnwAPmpM
"My god, River" Nine murmured in amusement, softly chuckling again as I sincerely wished I was standing in front of her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpmoi1tyW0V
The universe totally hates me right now.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL4vprj6595
"Your jealousy is adorable" she admitted, making my face burn up as I shyly glanced down to my lap.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvRaE3946QS
"I just wish I could put like a ten-foot barrier around you at all times" I whispered, smiling to myself as I heard her let out a soft sigh.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6BRmmAyLMw
"I'm a very reserved person, River" she said, her voice smooth as it echoed from my speakers, "That alone is a barrier."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmvz9THPl3P
I nodded a few times to myself, knowing she wasn't exactly friendly with everyone.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgH3GFoImtj
I barely got her to be friendly with me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXWocs6PCt7
Even her laughing felt so fucking rare.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLsEidOX3Vs
"Good, well, just make sure Sienna gets the hint" I sighed, turning my car off and grabbing my phone to put it on speaker.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhixELwFZDC
"I'll take care of it" Nine assured me as I grabbed my keys and opened my car door, "Text me when you're finished there."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEJxtGLxWuF
I closed my car door, "I will" I said, locking my car as I walked toward the complex.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj75eFT4p2n
"Good girl" she said, making shivers roll down my spine, "Enjoy breakfast."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqhF8UMkaW
"Thank you" I whispered, lowering the phone as we ended the call.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0PjXu0nB3E
Then I focused on walking inside the familiar warm lobby, taking the elevator up to Zion and Sid's level.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCiPmsN6cU
The door was left unlocked for me, walking inside just as they were plating the large square waffles.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtXGSL2lQlD
"Rivs!" Sid smiled as I walked further into their apartment.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVtiuutXQfn
"I put chocolate chips and bananas on yours" Zion told me, immediately making my mouth water.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7cUFb3633p
"My favorite," I said with a growing smile, walking over to them.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRtTQWGTjx
"And I warmed up the syrup," Sid added, making my smile widen.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgherVilpVC
"This is going to be so good," I said, throwing my arms around them both for a brief hug that they reciprocated, "I woke up hungry."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2oHfS5tFSU
"Girl me too" Sid laughed as she picked up her plate.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuvueVdDaOl
"I feel like my stomach is eating my backbone," Zion said as he grabbed his plate and the syrup.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDSTV1YpEdY
I smiled as I grabbed mine, finding the prepared waffle very pretty.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhXMek5Sx1l
"Thank you guys for breakfast," I said as we walked over to the table.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡchbx5NU4ka
"Anytime," Sid said as she sat down at the table.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu61cDqevQF
"You can Cashapp or Venmo us fifteen dollars to cover your waffle," Zion jokingly said as he sat beside Sid, making me laugh.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW9SpXDuh9F
"They would probably charge more at a restaurant," I determined, sitting across from them.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ15ojXApkK
"Zi-that's it," Sid said with a smile, "We should just drop out of school and open a restaurant," she jokingly determined, making me laugh again.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwfdU5RyK2n
Zion nodded a few times as he drizzled a decent amount of syrup over his waffle, "I like the way you think—we could call it..." he trailed off in thought for a moment, "Waffles with Zi and Sid."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTcD5Ak4qFr
"Oh, I would definitely eat there. Thirty dollar waffles? Take my money," I joked along with them, smiling wider as I drizzled the syrup over my waffle.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrIX0ab4ZnF
"Just give me my money," Sid randomly called out, holding her hand in the air.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡERwhXITlJX
Zion and I laughed as we all dug into our waffles—a brief silence growing around us as we ate.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLEO4DsLmOg
We nearly sounded like fucking animals-especially with Zion hitting the table, nodding as he pointed to his waffle.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRDZ9DHrr1
I hummed happily to myself while Sid breathed heavily as she danced in her chair.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIy9wxraI8
I was a little sad when we finished eating and it was time for Sid to rush off to class.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJHTPDTfY56
Zion invited me to the library but I kind of wanted to hit the gym and then work on my schoolwork.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJIfO7vilqw
Maybe that's just me procrastinating though.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG6A5cfvSSr
Either way, I decided on it—texting Nine that I had finished with breakfast and was planning to hit the gym next.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyIQqYIoJ1B
Traffic wasn't bad at all, I managed to make it back to my apartment in less than fifteen minutes.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZzHi16rhMq
Then I focused on getting ready for the gym, sliding on seamless leggings and a matching zip-up jacket.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4UqLXaW06C
As I was lacing up my Nikes, soft knocks echoed against my door-easily making my brows furrow.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH3Rs946Bai
Until I contemplated the idea that it was Kai.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7yFsP3KYc
Although she's in class right now.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrjmIzjo66
Or she should be?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCVHmothWsL
I raised up to my tippy-toes, staring through the peephole of my door.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXEs1h6tRIz
Where a brunette woman stood.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNuoKeG3CrX
She wore the usual attire that I noticed my apartment management always wears, holding a sleek black box in her hands as she waited on the other side.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0f9C8j3U9x
I reached for the handle, opening the door with furrowed brows.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3w2hkb911
"Ms. Romero, hi" the woman said as soon as I opened the door, flashing me a respectful smile.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQetuJy4n9
"Hi?" I said almost in question, glancing down when she extended the box to me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpncnXUlWh9
"This was left at the front desk for you" she informed me as I hesitantly took the box from her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpx5sXTBlIN
"Oh okay," I murmured, analyzing the box for a moment, "Thanks."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgiODJxbtR
"Of course," the woman said, giving me a curt nod before walking down the hallway toward the elevators.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJF9vCb5TjS
I stepped back inside my apartment, letting the door fall shut behind me as I walked over to my kitchen island.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHYOpseagHG
I reached for the lid of the box immediately, tugging it off to see what was inside.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6o35gYeKXu
My eyes widened upon landing on the numerous crisp red roses, an unconscious smile growing on my lips.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5VH7nvHXlf
I carefully ran my fingers over the soft roses, my smile growing even more as I reached for the white notecard to read.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd2p4Fj9EHZ
"Dinner at 6. Pack for the weekend."
– N.Luccino
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡev0wgN2FhD
I pursed my lips together when an annoying grin spread on my lips, doing a small twirl with the notecard in hand.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwUgKPYxk0I
Then I had to reel myself back in—after a few excited jumps.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVafjehtQGi
She got me flowers.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoB5cl8tCR
And I'm packing for the weekend?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzuc4vxsyGi
She's taking me to her house.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBOHsqiQA4
Hopefully?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUVhqvmuJJ
I let out a deep content sigh, holding the card to my chest as I basked this all in.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI5pOPJVIjh
Then I reached for my phone, deciding to text her something funny.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ93mmChrQA4
Me: you know you could've texted me right?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOtSfHGPbj3
I watched the text deliver through, glancing back over to the red roses with my smile still so fucking prominent.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1WIdr4fZxZ
I hate her for making me act like this over a plant.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlz1Q2l9r1j
My eyes shifted from the flowers to my phone when her texts buzzed through.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjoVagu1Akw
Doc: Good girls get flowers.
Doc: They also say thank you.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMEWt58oRLJ
I rolled my eyes at her text, even if my smile was still so prominent.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwqRthmObq
I typed on my phone again, texting her back.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkRgdLWWmB9
Me: thank you very much
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hMYxLpNB9
I bit the inside of my cheek, watching the text send through as I leaned against the counter.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLNegQocLl
The typing bubbles appeared barely seconds later, indicating she was typing.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZkJdWPLApa
Doc: You're welcome.
Doc: They reminded me of the outfit I took off you last night.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZmHOON6vPe
I drew in a deep breath at her text, recalling the red outfit I tried on for her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdekw7K7uA
The same one she untied from my body.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBNNOX3HyUy
I blinked a few times, trying to push the explicit thoughts of last night away as I focused on typing my response.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5umtjchkcd
Me: daydreaming about me at work doc?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHpdpsvo6w
I felt beyond warm as I watched the text send through, suddenly feeling very frustrated.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGxeDNiEw7
Knowing her, that's probably what she wanted.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUEE5S0KjWs
I glanced down when my phone buzzed again with two texts.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj6nvuGKYHv
Doc: Vividly.
Doc: Wear red tonight.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiO7WYbg3WP
I clenched my jaw when shivers ran down my spine, rereading her texts as I tried to cling to my sanity.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4BLhftKCs
Especially as I envisioned her thinking about me... vividly.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCwpuODEEbG
I had to force my focus away from my phone, locking it as I glanced back over to the roses.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJ8vLwXenR
Which ironically enough, resembled the exact shade of the outfit she had thought of.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURb8WEg4vp
I shook my head, letting out a deep breathless sigh as I tried to remember what I was doing last.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzP6onHummB
The gym.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡymLE076Lzc
I was going to the gym.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01GJ0YsiJF
I suddenly reached for my water and keys, picking my phone up so I could head to the gym downstairs.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSRWu47UD4
I was determined to focus my sudden frustration on my workout, letting time pass by me in the gym.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QHbFSS0Br
I even hit the sauna after and walked to a nearby cafe for a smoothie and a chicken wrap.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJr2sh1ub5
By the time I made it back to my apartment, I felt productive.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaMjHqbvjII
And also like I didn't have time to work on my paper.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHpLu47IJ3T
Somehow it was almost three.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoTbbAwpTCp
I probably should've brought my food back to eat at my apartment, but oh well.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpwF1F74c2
I can just bring my laptop with me and focus on my paper when I get the chance.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZnv25bupzD
Right now, I needed to start packing.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4r4hLI22xw
Which I knew would take me at least an hour since it was for the weekend.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTRO5zuiWAx
Then I had to get ready still.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLioCRk4gEj
I wanted to blow out my hair and put extra effort into my look tonight.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEoty3eHfRp
Which would take a few hours minimum.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡycmjuLLHlf
It didn't help that all I could think about was her house and what it looked like.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ08WN0En3mP
Or the explicit thoughts of us last night that swirled in my head.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLvOuIsROSf
By the time she texted me that she was here, I was barely finished with my makeup, still standing in my robe.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiAtp7xkA7
My hair was done though—I needed maybe ten more minutes, which I texted her to inform her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ16txcRjp2w
Even though I knew she was literal with time.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISiYGbd6OY
She got here at six on the dot.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Fp9wKUs7K
I let out a frustrated sigh when sharp knocks sounded out my door.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx4vylpcdgg
But I was quite literally in the middle of zipping up my dress.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX2cDfLfK47
It was a darker shade of red, falling to my knees as it clung to my body.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5P1nELOLm
It was off the shoulder, but the long sleeves still kept me warm.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnw9DPaYWyR
I stumbled out of my closet, fully zipping up my dress as I walked out of my room toward the front door.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi36ieSiVKa
I didn't even have to check the peephole to know it was Nine on the other side.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHcEC4UFwF
She wore a black blouse with matching dress pants and her usual sharp stilettos.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4KQ5XXJu8
Her dark hair was down, her bangs framing her face covered in usual light makeup.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNCPdvVJQeU
"I'm almost done," I said as I turned around to rush back into my room.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Pr26B1pOd
"Take your time," she murmured, her heels clicking sharply against my floors as she followed me into my room, "I scheduled the reservations for later."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf8p3MMFIeT
I pursed my lips into a smile, "You know me so well" I mumbled, weirdly finding it attractive that she knew I would be running late.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqadT0uger
"I do" Nine calmly said as I rushed to grab my heels.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdoxJR2Bhy
I couldn't help but stall for a moment, weirdly processing the sight of her in my room.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVi1XK2w7rb
It was her first time in here and it feels...
Intimate.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJxuKyWESW
Especially when her brown eyes landed on the folded grey blanket she had given me so long ago.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj4JLNcRqty
"You sleep with this?" she curiously murmured, delicately running her fingers over the soft cover.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZT7WCGXbI9
"No.." I said, my tone more defensive than I originally planned, "I just... it's nice for decoration."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj6vhJg8XhF
Nine hummed softly, her stare shifting to my cheetah print comforter—then over to my nightstand and various other decorations.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXttM0ZCmJ
That didn't have a spot of grey in them.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw7Jm2GPZ9b
If anything the blanket looked out of place.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwEX0jCnHTH
Fuck.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOyyPSxIrwm
"It's cute that you sleep with it, River" she said as I suddenly focused on putting my heels on.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTKLJyhqbk6
Because I definitely couldn't look at her right now.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDe7L913ir
"It was like a one-time thing" I whispered, suddenly feeling shy as I walked over to the bed.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg2SJRe7040
Nine smoothly grabbed the gold heels from my hands, "Right" she murmured, sitting on the bed in front of me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmdWQIoPAX
I furrowed my brows, "What are you doing?" I asked in confusion, glancing down at my heels in her hands.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4yK3cZRvIc
"Helping you" she calmly determined, leaning down as she ran her soft hands down my leg.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK4YGFF1i8Z
But only to wrap her delicate touch around my ankle, lifting my foot to rest on the bed between her legs.
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I instinctively rested my hands on her shoulders, feeling my face burn up as I watched her slide the heel onto my foot.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzOEwuVD8Ni
Once clasped around my ankle, she grazed her thumb over my soft skin before lowering my foot.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyMzatX0bcd
I lifted my other foot for her, letting her slide on my other heel and clasp it.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkFTIgnf4AI
"Done" she said, lowering my foot back down and glancing up at me, "Are you packed?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwa9cwzXkVQ
I nodded a few times, "My suitcase is over there" I told her, motioning to my small black suitcase by the door.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaFeg4veoaw
"Good" she murmured, rising from the bed as I unconsciously kept my hands on her shoulders.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZ6h8LCn2T
Nine paused for a moment, openly staring down at me as my hands remained on her shoulders.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH7cc2MMeTK
Until I suddenly retracted them away, clearing my throat as I looked away from her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ADWYm8zIE
The last thing I wanted was for her to reject me again as she did in that bathroom.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3I5CWNIyO6
I don't think kissing is her thing.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVkpRJgLBZ0
But that's fine—I've had instances where I hooked up with someone and didn't kiss them.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzHcGYTnKGL
I could easily do this.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCHaVticfrG
"I'll get your bag" she suddenly said, walking past me toward my suitcase by my room door.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ipBb2hGbQ
"Okay," I murmured, following behind her as she grabbed the handle of my suitcase and smoothly pulled it up, rolling it out of my room, "Thank you."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKOWnXndFd5
"You're welcome" she said as we walked toward my front door.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh3XPK2Gkap
I grabbed my keys as she opened the door, motioning me through first.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdX8fSMwhq
Then we headed downstairs to the parking garage where her black Bentley was parked.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡInpocqqCT0
Nine put my suitcase in the trunk as I slid into the passenger seat, buckling my seatbelt and getting comfortable.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZdNlJhKqu
She slid into the driver's seat moments later, starting the car before buckling her seatbelt.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7PWILHVWFu
Then she put the car into drive, pulling out of the parking spot she previously reversed into.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTdhREOlWx3
I assumed dinner would be downtown—or maybe on the outskirts.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBhLl0IctXW
But the further Nine drove, the quicker I realized we were having dinner much further than downtown.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg93euErfBj
It seemed like we were having it in a whole other city.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxpDxpynoL
I remained silent as soft jazz music played from the surround speakers, trying to act like this was totally normal to me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlUP4yaR31B
But after two hours of driving, I couldn't help but glance over at her, finally deciding to ask her where we were going.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ05zIIkieiq
And if we're there yet.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66UvJ3bhOE
"Nine" I suddenly spoke through the calm silence.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcqYrFUpTf
She didn't glance away from the gloomy roads, "Yes?" she murmured, continuing to drive down the busy highway.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlThWlN9i9n
"Where are we going?" I said, my attention placed entirely on her, "And why is it taking so long? I'm hungry."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6U3wLzA04
She briefly glanced to me, "We're two exits away" she said, reassuring me as she glanced back forward, "I'm taking you to Cannon Beach."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCVO4QfaaX
I furrowed my brows, "You took me to an entirely different city?" I asked blankly, wishing I would've been better informed.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsnf34py3J
"Staying in Seattle would equate to acting appropriately in public" Nine calmly determined, flicking on her signal and merging to the right lane, "I didn't want to do that."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2knSTPeg3V
I pursed my lips, "So we're staying here too?" I asked, feeling something inside of me deflate.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJvhPSsw2qA
Because I already knew her answer, and it meant I wouldn't get to see her house.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡquTxBgzkvt
"Yes," she said, exiting off the highway, "It's a beachfront property. You'll like it."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdA5r7Yzg0
I lazily hummed, "Right because this is totally beach weather" I mumbled, glancing out of the window coated with raindrops.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK3dDZqQhe1
It was grey and gloomy outside, making me want to climb back into my bed and sleep for hours.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFFr4LdFLD
"The beach is beautiful on days like this, River" Nine countered my assumption, flicking on her signal and smoothly turning right at the stoplight,
"You'll see."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWzKw58Xm3I
I only hummed, staring out the tinted window at the shops and houses we passed.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2hV3AiMxKp
It was very... coastal.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAVEhHcghaP
I think it would probably be really nice in the summer.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9FYhhcOeG
In a way, Nine was right, it looked kind of poetic under the cloudy sky and light sprinkling of rain.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqJTCcCq1y
All I could do was stare out the window, watching as we grew closer and closer to the beachfront.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQlKlvM82cw
I assumed she was taking us to the property first, but it turned out the restaurant she made reservations at was also beachfront.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJj9YfinQdB
And it was really fucking nice.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf2SW6lXVbO
Like live piano nice.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD33g9KDZ9n
Our table was by the floor-to-ceiling windows with a view of the peacefully gloomy beach, adding to the ambiance of the soft piano and chatter around us.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLDC5TCI5OF
"Hi, I'm Giselle" a cheery voice suddenly spoke, causing me to glance over to the younger redhead woman by our table. She wore a white tucked-in blouse and black dress pants, "I'll be serving you on this lovely evening. Is there anything I can get started for you?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLXzBxaQWMk
Nine glanced to me, silently letting me order my drink first.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6DbsyHJ28Z
I pursed my lips, "I would say water normally, but do you guys serve any other drinks?" I asked, glancing back over to the menu, "Non-alcoholic," I quickly clarified.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhqtKB6a1Be
Giselle took a step closer to me, "Oh we definitely do," she said, leaning down closer to me as she viewed my menu, "Read over this section," she told me, reaching her manicured finger over my shoulder to point at the menu.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6XfoZoAbBO
That's when I felt her stare.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtM6p9F3JJc
Nine's brown eyes openly analyzing us.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm0XtjLIxpV
And I immediately knew why—especially with the lack of space between me and this friendly server.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2zVpZqPtyE
"You seem like a Shirley Temple kind of girl" Giselle joked with a smile, turning her head to meet my stare and leaving our faces a few inches apart.
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I nodded awkwardly—
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcHOuOWoL6d
"Perhaps another moment to look at the menu, Giselle?" Nine calmly spoke before I could, "I'll help her pick out a drink."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0FTop1FV8w
Her words were calculated.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiCegoNNGK
There was a subtle passive-aggressive tone behind them, Nine's eyes locked on Giselle who immediately back away from me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD9DiAeeI8v
"Of course, I'll be back in a few minutes" she said, blinking almost five times in a row before glancing away from Nine's precise stare, "Take your time!" she awkwardly whispered before quickly walking off.
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I felt so fucking bad.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd2Xa2XHjCh
Nine can be intimidating on her own—but if she didn't like you it was so much worse.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4dv3TRBjsf
I learned that after she met Kai.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKa2tLloHPS
"Seriously?" I asked in a lowered tone, glancing to Nine with a blank look.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRfyk34pyeL
"She should've memorized the menu" she casually murmured, her brown eyes trailing my face.
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I raised a brow, "And what if she was new Nine?" I asked, shaking my head at her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuBUQ6TWZZV
"There's a spare menu on the table" she said, motioning her head to the table where not one, but two menus lay, "It was unnecessary to lean over you."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBqugh4ATwl
I pursed my lips into a smile, processing her lowered tone and targeted words.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDih86hbKOr
"Your jealousy is adorable" I purposely quoted her words from earlier.
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Nine lazily raised her brows at my joke, "You say that now, River" she murmured, her stare holding mine.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpTZIdEvT0i
I tilted my head at her, "I don't know... I kind of like you jealous" I said, my smile growing when she shook her head at me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡStpaIBhXgd
"This isn't jealousy, River. That was simply me correcting inappropriate behavior" Nine clarified, her brown eyes not wavering from mine, "Regardless, I don't do scenes or warnings. I remove problems before they realize they are one."
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I remained silent, feeling my face burn up from her serious statement.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBBL8z3YMRg
She meant every word she just said—I could see it all over her face.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtHbUO1s75j
And I found it so fucking attractive yet almost scary at the same time, especially when her words registered.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ44lLPUjMaZ
"Remove them?" I clarified, glancing down at the menu as I let out a deep breath.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK6ltuAquMr
Suddenly it feels really hot in here.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5vIZLp4op0
Or maybe it's this topic... her stare still pinning me down.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjNA5qrPdIC
It's making me feel hot.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5jXRDm83jw
"River" she murmured as if my name alone was a warning.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlm2iFde75J
She was silent for a moment, causing me to glance up from the menu and meet her precise stare.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIUwHD0n3Xw
Nine's eyes trailed my face, tilting her head before she said—
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhYYCArInCq
"They disappear."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6761gy1GTZ
She didn't elaborate.
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She didn't need to.
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I knew part of her background—I knew she held influence from her family's background alone.
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It's why she's asked to do interviews.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTbz66DEJqU
She's not just a therapist.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhcy31Dnpfd
She has their last name, and clearly, that still means something.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0pbR1FtBW
Even if she's across the country.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQWZBxwb2KY
"The Hawaiian punch" Nine suddenly said, circling back to the drink topic, "I think you would like it."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKXIeNUsJk7
I nodded a few times, "Yeah" I whispered, clearing my throat as I tried to focus on anything other than the previous topic.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNwRSeB2cQZ
The menu says the Hawaiian punch is made in-house so I think it would be really good.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYiAHgyCTr
"I'll get that then," I determined, setting my menu down on the table as I glanced up to her.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp6awuH0gLz
But suddenly I'm thinking about Kai, and what I've kept from Nine.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFRQpjzyhe
Would Kai be a problem meant for removing?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8sOM61ISok
I don't think Nine would care.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyayFMSVzvD
Kai's my best friend anyway and we don't hook up anymore.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ34aT5vx3IW
She's not a present problem... sort of?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEij8tOIcW
Like she's present in my life, but not in a sexual way.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBqgrklvooq
Nine won't even find out—even if she and Kai were in the same room, it's not something that would casually come up.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmOQWiAtlbH
It's totally okay.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISjSTAStfN
"River."
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9u6Uqd3PWF
I blinked a few times, "Yes?" I whispered, zoning in on her stare already locked on me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpyXXPOnmja
And analyzing my face.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Q1fSdActv
"Is something on your mind?" she curiously asked me, opening her hand resting on the table.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6XduUwYXt
I knew it was a subtle invitation to hold her hand.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bF4iSS7Dg
She only wanted me to meet her halfway.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDsLcbwl6z
"No" I quickly said, reaching up to place my hand in hers.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxPPSLizdo9
Shivers ran through my body when her hand instinctively wrapped around mine, her skin smooth against mine.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgAvBgZoLbd
She was so warm around me, almost making my face burn up from the sheer intimacy of something as simple as holding her hand.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1TrQOGOJ3F
"Relax, River"'Nine softly murmured, caressing her thumb against the back of my hand, "I don't go around randomly removing people" she said, picking up on where my head still was.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Gfc5x7WK1
It's times like this when I hated how well she could read me.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGyfty40pa
I unconsciously glanced over, noticing a different waitress approaching our table.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI5mFJ2dIlD
The other girl must've switched.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oxiSgr0Cd
"I apologize for the delays" the younger woman smiled, pulling out her notepad, "What drinks can I get started for you?"
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsfnGzq5jc9
I smiled slightly, "Just the Hawaiian punch please," I told her, pursing my lips as I verged back into my thoughts.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfYj2x0d98
I don't know, I just...
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMgFWj3h8X
Maybe I should tell her about Kai?
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV98t2zNIz3
This weekend would be the perfect opportunity.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTL6jSGZZl
And I think I should, especially after what she just said.
6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUU0HUk7i17
I only hope it doesn't ruin our weekend.
ns216.73.216.224da2
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