My Love... by My Side [COMPLETED]

7: Day 1

According to the address, this seemed to be the right place. Rae tightly gripped the key card in her hand. The house before her was absolutely stunning, nestled in the most prestigious area of Rose Town.

The owner of this place must be incredibly wealthy.

With caution, she swiped the key card, and the door let out a beep as it unlocked. Taking a deep breath, Rae stepped inside. The interior was surprisingly minimalistic, featuring just a set of sofas, a state-of-the-art home theater system, and a small dining table for four. She made her way into the kitchen, which exuded a clean and modern ambiance.

Curiously, an envelope caught her eye on the kitchen counter. Picking it up, she realized it was addressed to her, as her name was elegantly written on the front.

Dear Rae,

Welcome to my humble abode. Today, I have a special request for you-I'd like you to prepare some meat dishes for me. You'll find the necessary ingredients in my refrigerator. Feel free to use anything you need from my well-stocked kitchen. Make yourself at home. Oh, and please make sure to stay until at least four o'clock! It's a stipulation in our contract.

Thank you...

Rae carefully stowed the note in her bag, a smile forming on her face as she surveyed the inviting kitchen.

"Well then, let's get started!" she exclaimed, ready to embark on her culinary adventure.

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Cole placed his belongings inside his locker, a sense of joy and excitement bubbling within him. This was what he had longed for-a fresh semester filled with new experiences.

He was determined not to squander this opportunity.

As he made his way through the hallways, a few female students smiled sheepishly in his direction. It was no surprise, really. With his handsome and endearing features, it was hard not to be captivated by him. One could feel both protected and compelled to protect him simultaneously.

However, Cole paid them no mind, walking past as if they didn't exist. That was just his way. He tended to be a wallflower, finding it challenging to forge new friendships. But once he felt comfortable with someone, he opened up quickly.

Taylor and Mint were those special few.

From a distance, Cole spotted Taylor exiting a classroom, accompanied by his best friend. Cole's gaze fixated on him, observing every detail with intense attention. Taylor's curly hairdo only enhanced his cuteness. Cole couldn't deny that the very first time he laid eyes on Taylor, he had fallen in love instantly. Until now, he hadn't questioned his own orientation, but now he was certain of one thing.

Love is when you feel a connection with someone, and nothing else matters.

His heart sank when he noticed another boy approaching Taylor, engaging him in conversation. Something about him seemed off, perhaps even a bit questionable. Cole's envious heart fueled his initial impression. Without hesitation, he walked purposefully towards them, determined to intervene.

"Oh, there he is! Hi, Cole," Mint exclaimed. He greeted Cole with a warm smile, and Cole responded by giving him a small fist bump.

"Quill, this is Cole, Tay's boyfriend," Mint introduced, raising an eyebrow. Taylor shot a disapproving glance at Quill, his hand instinctively finding its way to Cole's arm.

"Hello... Baby, have you eaten yet?" Cole gently caressed Taylor's cheek, playing along without seeking any justification from Mint or Taylor. He knew that could wait.