The Glossy Eyes

Chapter 57: Loneliness

A week had passed, and Nathaniel's health had significantly improved. He was able to go out and resume his responsibilities within the mafia. As a result, Alannah had returned to her own apartment, feeling a mixture of relief and frustration.

Nathaniel's newfound busyness left Alannah feeling somewhat neglected. She found herself falling into a monotonous routine, spending her days at the hotel, playing her violin for the guests, returning home to watch something on TV, and eventually drifting off to sleep. The lack of attention from Nathaniel weighed heavily on her mind, and her frustration grew.

While cutting an apple in her kitchen, Alannah couldn't help but voice her frustrations aloud. "I wish I could do something to get through to Nathaniel," she murmured to herself. "How can a person be so consumed with their work that they only call once a day, ask about my day, and then fall asleep on the call?"

Alannah's emotions swirled within her, a mixture of longing, disappointment, and a yearning for a deeper connection with Nathaniel. She craved his presence, his attention, and the affection they had shared during his recovery. She knew that his involvement in the mafia would always be a part of his life, but she couldn't help but desire more from their relationship.

With a heavy sigh, Alannah finished cutting the apple and placed the slices on a plate.

Alannah's doorbell rang, and her heart skipped a beat with anticipation. She hurriedly made her way to the door, hoping to see Nathaniel's familiar face on the other side. However, as she opened the door, her excitement quickly faded when she saw her friend Amy standing there.

"Hey," Alannah greeted, trying to hide her disappointment. "Come on in."

Amy stepped inside with a mischievous grin. "Do I still have a place in your life, or did Nathaniel take over completely?" she joked.

Alannah chuckled, appreciating Amy's attempt to lighten the mood. "Of course you do. Nathaniel's just been a bit preoccupied lately, so I was hoping it might be him at the door."

Amy gave her a sympathetic smile. "I can understand how you feel. Relationships can be complicated, especially when you're dealing with someone like Nathaniel."

Alannah nodded, her gaze wandering as she contemplated the recent dynamics between her and Nathaniel. She had grown used to his presence and the attention they had shared during his recovery, but now that he had returned to his mafia responsibilities, she felt a void.

"I miss him," Alannah admitted softly. "I know he has his obligations, but I wish we could find more time for each other."

Amy placed a comforting hand on Alannah's shoulder. "Communication is key, my friend. Talk to him about how you're feeling. Find a way to express your needs and understand his. Relationships require effort from both sides."

Alannah nodded, appreciating Amy's advice. She knew that open and honest communication was essential, even if it meant addressing the challenges that came with Nathaniel's line of work.

As they moved into the living room, Alannah couldn't help but feel grateful for Amy's presence.

Alannah shared her concerns with Amy about her adopted parents' recent behavior, expressing how they seemed a bit distant and uncharacteristically reserved. She couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off.

Amy furrowed her brow, her concern mirroring Alannah's. "That doesn't sound like Maurine and Joseph. They've always been loving and supportive towards you. Are you sure everything is okay?"

Alannah sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and confusion. "I don't know, Amy. Ever since I mentioned about them visiting me, they seemed hesitant and evasive. And then our last phone call abruptly ended. It's like they're keeping something from me."