AGAIN || MAYBE IN ANOTHER LIFE

Chapter 12

CHAPTER 12

Céline

Now

I open my eyes. Did I just dream about my first kiss with Charles while Liam is sleeping next to me? I sit up and head to the kitchen, I need some water. The penthouse is quiet, the rhythmic sound of rain tapping against the windows fills the room. I know this place by heart now. I've been back for almost five weeks, and things are going great between me and Liam. Since the kiss at Charles' apartment, we've been spending a lot of time together, though nothing too serious. We're taking it slow. Sometimes, when I'm too tired to drive home, I stay over, but that's it. I've managed to avoid Charles, thanks to the winter break. He's probably been off somewhere with Alexandra, but now he's back, since I saw him yesterday at the bookshop. I didn't talk to him, of course. I still work there, even though Alex knows about my past with Charles and is probably paranoid I'll try to steal him from her. She hates me and doesn't bother hiding it. When I return to bed, Liam stirs, half-awake, waiting for me.

'Everything alright?' His voice is husky with sleep. His arms wrap around me, pulling me close, and the scent of his cologne lingers in the air. I rest my head on his bare chest, feeling safe and content.

'Yes, don't worry. I was just thirsty.'

He places a soft kiss on my forehead.

'Let's go back to sleep, chérie. It's still dark outside.' His words melt me. It's been so long since I felt like this, cared for, cherished. He has a way of making me feel special with just a few kind words. But even now, part of me can't help but think of Charles. Liam's warmth lulls me back to sleep within minutes. When I wake again, it's daylight, but we're still in the same position as last night. It makes me smile. I love staying over because I feel protected. When I'm alone in my bed, night-time becomes my worst enemy, the moment when all my fears from New York come rushing back, leaving me powerless.

'Good morning, Lin.' Liam murmurs, his eyes still closed. I must have woken him by moving.

'Good morning to you too.' I reply, stretching before leaning in for a light kiss. 'Someone's feeling clingy this morning!' He messes, making us both laugh.

'You're such a tease!' I shoot back playfully.

'But credit goes to you if I am!'

'You flatter me, chérie!' Liam says, and I blush for the nickname. 'You definitely needed an ego boost!' I joke, pretending to be squished. 'Look, this bed's too small for me now!' Liam bursts out laughing before pinning me down playfully. His hands find their way to my sides, and I know what's coming next.

'Liam, stop it!' I beg between uncontrollable giggles as he starts tickling me. 'What? Pardonne-moi, I can't understand you!' He jokes, his laughter echoing through the room. 'Please! The neighbors will report us for disturbing the peace!' I say, trying to catch my breath.

'Let them. If that's the price to hear your laugh, I don't care.' His tone shifts, and for a moment, neither of us speaks. His hands cup my face, and his gaze softens. 'You're beautiful, Céline. I've never met anyone as gorgeous as you.' His cheeks flush as he speaks, and before I can respond, his lips brush mine in a quick kiss.

'Another one?' I ask, teasing. This time, his kiss deepens, pulling me into a world where nothing else exists. His hands slide under my shirt, sending shivers down my spine. But before things can go any further, my phone buzzes loudly, breaking the moment.

'Really?' Liam sighs, reaching for it. 'It's Alexandra.' I groan, rolling my eyes. 'She'll probably want me to open the shop again.'

'You should tell her you're busy.' He mutters, clearly annoyed. I press the green button reluctantly.