MO GRÁ | Derek Morgan

chapter twenty two

┌── •✧• ──┐
New York City
december 14, 2000

As the morning sunlight filtered through my window curtains, I awoke to a scene that felt almost cinematic. I pulled myself out of bed, my feet flinching at the cold wooden floor, but the thought of a warm cup of coffee lured me to the kitchen.

While the coffee brewed, I gazed out the window, my mind drifting as snowflakes fell down from the sky. It was a breathtaking sight. The rich aroma of coffee enveloped me as I poured myself a steaming cup, but just as I took a first sip, a loud knock on the door startled me.

Who could it be? I wondered. I set my coffee down and peered through the peephole. My breath caught in my throat at the sight of Killian standing outside.

After a moment's hesitation, I slowly opened the door, revealing him bundled against the cold, his cheeks rosy and a bouquet of vibrant flowers in his hands, their colors a bright contrast against the blanket of white snow.

"Killian!" I exclaimed, my surprise spilling out. "What are you doing here? Where on earth did you find flowers in December?"

He chuckled, "I might have pulled a few strings." Stepping inside, his cologne enveloped me, making my heart race as I closed the door behind him. "It's been like seven months. I didn't think you'd come."

He placed the flowers on the small table by the door, his gaze searching mine. "I know. Business kept me busier than I expected. But as soon as I could get away, I did. I wanted to see you."

A warm flutter danced in my chest at his words. "Well, I'm glad you're here. I've missed you." He stepped closer. "I missed you too, darling."

A blush crept up my cheeks. "So, how long are you here for?"

"I'm here for a while. I promise I'll make up for lost time," he replied with a playful grin. I raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile forming. "Well, I hope so. Would you like some coffee?"

"Yeah, I'll take some," he said and I nodded as I reset the coffee maker. Once we sat at the kitchen table, our conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter as we reminisced about our time in London.

"You know," I said, rising to fill his coffee cup, "I really enjoyed our time in London. It was the most fun I've had in a while, and I didn't realize how much I'd miss it—miss you."

His expression softened as he stood up. "I've thought about you a lot since then. It's hard to forget someone who makes such an impression."

My smile widened as I handed him the cup. "Well, I'm glad." With a gentle move, Killian set his cup down and closed the distance between us, his lips brushing against mine in a soft, lingering kiss. It sent shivers down my spine, igniting all the feelings I'd tucked away since our last encounter. I melted against him, my heart melting as I kissed him back. When we finally pulled apart, both breathless, I couldn't help but smile. "Well," I said, my cheeks flushed, "I really have missed you."

"Mhm?" he teased, a playful grin spreading across his face. "What do you think about lunch, since it's already 12 PM?"

I laughed, realizing I'd slept in. "Yeah, I think I can find us a place."

His eyes sparkled with excitement. "How about we go for a walk? The snow is perfect, and I'd love for you to show me your favorite spots in the city."

I nodded enthusiastically, my excitement bubbling over. "Let me grab my coat and dress warmer." I walked upstairs to my room, realizing my pajama pants and tank top wouldn't cut it. I slipped on a pair of leggings with baggy sweatpants on top and layered a hoodie over my tank. I shook my hair loose from its braid and brushed my fingers through it.