Falling Stars [h.s]

Chapter 17

Aurora

I rocked back and forth on the rocking chair in the nursery that was close to being finished. Zayn and Odysseus did not dissapoint with the interior of the room. The walls were painted white and the furnitures were gray. One side of the wall where the crib was against was painted as a starry night sky with the words 'Dream Big' written in bold cursive letters. It was their little addition to the room. I loved it overall. I looked around the room with a smile. I couldn't wait to spend my days in here rocking my baby to sleep then watching her sleep. The thought made my heart flutter.

I turned my head to the sound of the creaking door. I'm going to have to get that fixed. Odysseus came into the room holding two water bottles. He sat down on the ottoman next to me and handed me a bottle. "How do you like it so far?"

"I love it. Thank you."

"There is something I've been meaning to all you for a while now. I have been waiting for the right time, but it seems like there's never a right time."

I stopped rocking on the chair, giving my undivided attention to Odysseus, "You can tell me now."

He clasped his hands together and took a deep breath, "I know you are going through a lot right now, trying to balance law school and pregnancy all the while dealing with personal issues, but if you give me the chance I promise I'll take good care of you. I love you Aurora. We have known each other for years now and I should've realized this sooner, but I know now. Will you go on a date with me?"

To say I was surprised was an understatement. I have never thought of Odysseus in such a way even after knowing him for years. He was more of a brother to me than anything. There were times we would flirt for fun, but I never thought much of it.

"Can I have time to think about it?"

-

It's been almost two weeks since I last saw Harry. I tried avoiding him as much as I possible can. He's been showing up at my workplace and my house. I was annoyed. I came to the conclusion that I no longer wanted anything to do with him anymore. I also had no plans on telling Layla about him either. Not yet anyways. I'm not going to put her through what she went through a few nights ago ever again. Odyssey was right, she was too young. Harry couldn't keep his word, Layla didn't need to suffer because of it.

Odyssey and Zayn had left for work. Saturn, Layla and Aiden were currently at school. The twins were still asleep. I was spending the day going over student portfolios with Odysseus. He was an entrepreneur. His art gallery was currently taking entries for the yearly exhibition showcase as well as auction.

"I gave your question some thought."

He looked up from the painting he was currently reviewing, "Really?"

"Yes. I'm sorry it took almost six years to give you an answer Odysseus. I'm thinking clearly now and I know I'm ready, so yes I'll go out with you."

"I would really like that. When?"

"I'm off tomorrow. Does that work for you?"

"Definitely." Soon after we got back to work. I flipped through the pages of the photography portfolio made by a University student by the name of Imani Brown. The photographs were flawless and absolutely breath taking. "This girl deserves a spot in the showcase, her work is very eye-catching"

Odysseus peered over at the picture I was holding up. "That is very eye-catching." I smiled, adding the portfolio to the admitted pile. We still had a few more to go for today. The entries were lasting until early April and the exhibition will be open on the first of May.

"So, where would you like to go tomorrow?"

I gave the question some thought. There weren't many places I knew about in California, even after living here for six years. "Surprise me."

Odysseus and I continued going through portfolios for another two hours before calling it a day. I had to get ready for work and he had a photo shoot to attend to. We said our goodbyes until tomorrow. I prayed the date goes well. I needed to get over Harry. Again. I wanted to believe I did before, but in reality I made up scenarios in my head that made me believe I no longer cared for him. It was far from the truth. I couldn't stop thinking about him. No matter how badly I wanted to. It is as if he always found a way back into my mind, no matter what situation I was in.

There once was a time when the thought of him made my heart stop beating. It was the best feeling in the world. Now when the thought of him crosses my mind it feels almost burdening. For months I found it impossible to sleep because of the battle between my heart and my mind. I would have never guessed Harry could have so much affect on me. Forgetting about him was all I could do for now. It was best for both me and my daughter. I can't bring myself to put her through such disappointment again. I knew the feeling of being excited for something than having be let down in the end. It wasn't the best feeling in the world. I vowed to never let that happen to Layla again. No matter what sacrifices I had to make. She is my number one.