Melodies of a stranger

Chapter 29

The next few days passed in a blur of cardboard boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape. Finally, after many hours of unpacking, everything they used often had been put away. They had decided to hide the boxes that had yet to be emptied in the attic until they found the time to sort through them.

Maxi could have cried with happiness when the last box was loaded into the car ready to be taken to the recycling centre.

As Riftan slammed the boot of the car closed, he turned and surveyed her face. He walked over to her and gently cradled her cheek in his palm. "You look shattered, why don't you go and have a nap whilst I get rid of this lot. I'll wake you up in a little bit."

Maxi smiled at him gratefully before tilting her head back, asking for a kiss. Riftan bent forward and gently brought their lips together. Even though she was tired and a little stressed, the warmth of his mouth made her feel like she was melting.

Riftan reluctantly pulled back breaking the kiss, regret etched on his features.

"If I don't leave now, we'll miss our slot with the recycling centre. Go to bed, I'll be back before you know it."

Maxi sighed as she watched him climb into the car and drive off. Making her way upstairs, she stripped off her top and leggings before flopping into bed. She fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.

⚝──⭒─⭑─⭒──⚝

Maxi awoke to a flurry of kisses landing all over her face. She giggled softly as the strands of Riftan's hair brushed over her skin as he worked his way from one cheek, across the bridge of her nose to the other cheek.

"Hmmmm... this is a wonderful way to wake up..."

"I was planning to wake you up by kissing you somewhere else but that will have to wait for another day. Get up, I have a surprise for you!"

Maxi was pulled sharply out of the bed before her sleep addled brain could fully comprehend what he had said. "Huh? What's going on?"

"Wouldn't be much of a surprise if I told you, would it? Come on, get dressed."

As Riftan spoke, he picked up her discarded clothes and handed them to her. Even though his face remained as calm as ever, his eyes were lit up with excitement.

After getting herself dressed and quickly neatening her appearance, Riftan led her out of the house. As they made their way towards the car, he turned his head towards her. "Do me a favour, don't look in the boot until you know about the surprise. It will kind of ruin it for you."

Maxi narrowed her eyes at him as he held the car door open for her. What an earth was he up to? She buckled her belt as Riftan made his way around to the driver's side door.

"Can I have a hint at least?"

Riftan shot her an unimpressed look.

"No. Patience is a virtue. You'll find out soon enough."

"Fine then." Maxi sulked slightly before an idea crossed her mind. "You've got to sing to me though as payment."

Riftan shook his head as he started the engine and checked his blind spot.

"You are incorrigible. I really don't understand your fascination with me singing."

"You have a beautiful voice, and when you sing it soothes me. I don't know how to explain how much it means to me..."

"Ahh it's all coming out now, the reason you're with me is so you can have access to my voice on demand. I see how it is."

Maxi smacked Riftan's arm as he cackled.