A Feeling About You

CHAPTER 15: Stronger Together

The sky transforms into a canvas of dusky pinks and purples as the day gracefully transitions into evening. Standing before my house, I turn to face Kai, a swirling mix of emotions within me. The confession we shared hangs between us, a delicate thread that's woven with both thrill and tenderness.

Amid the serene moment, the familiar notes of my Seven Nation Army ringtone break through the air, momentarily shattering the romantic atmosphere. I quickly answer the call, a touch of exasperation in my actions, as Kai lets out a soft chuckle.

"Hey, Elena," I greet, the corners of my lips quirking up.

"Hey, Adira! I dropped off Kyong at his house. He was starting to get a little sleepy, so Kai doesn't have to worry about picking him up."

"That's thoughtful of you, Elena. I'll let him know," I reply, gratitude colouring my voice.

"Thanks, honey. See you soon," Elena chimes before ending the call.

I relay the message to Kai, who raises an appreciative eyebrow. "She really didn't have to do that. I'll be sure to thank her properly the next time we see her. She's already done so much today."

A quiet sigh slips from my lips. "True. Elena's been amazing."

Kai's gaze softens, and a hint of reluctance edges into his voice as he says, "So, I'll see you tomorrow?"

I meet his gaze with a soft smile, offering a reassuring nod. "Of course. And remember, text me when you're back home safely, okay?"

A warm grin lights up his eyes. "You got it."

Our connection lingers, and I find myself getting lost in the intensity of his gaze. There's something magnetic about the way he looks at me as if he's trying to etch this moment into his memory.

"I guess this is goodbye for now," Kai murmurs, his voice softer than usual.

My smile holds a touch of wistfulness. "Yeah, until tomorrow."

And then, a surprising shift in the atmosphere occurs. Kai leans in ever so slightly, and my heart leaps within my chest. For a brief moment, I close my eyes, my pulse racing as a rush of excitement washes over me. Is he about to kiss me? The possibility flits through my mind, my breath catching.

Amidst my heightened anticipation, Kai's laughter floats to my ears, and I open my eyes to find him grinning. "Adira, you look like you're preparing for a marathon. I was just going to hug you."

My cheeks flush with warmth, a mixture of embarrassment and relief flooding through me. I playfully shove him, a light-hearted giggle escaping me. "You really know how to keep me on my toes."

His laughter joins mine, his eyes dancing with amusement. "It's a skill."

But then, a shift in his demeanour occurs. His gaze softens, and a tender warmth replaces the teasing. Before I can react, his hand cradles my head, the contact sending a pleasant shiver down my spine. And then, his lips press gently against my forehead.

My eyes flutter open in surprise, met with the sight of his violet aura enveloping us. Colours dance and twirl, reflecting the intensity of his emotions. There's a lingering warmth where his lips touched my skin, and it ignites a gentle tingle that courses through me.

"See you, Adira," he murmurs, his voice a delicate caress.

"See you," I reply, my voice equally soft.

Kai takes a step back, the unspoken promise of what's to come lingering between us. With a final wave, he turns and walks away, leaving me with a heart that's both light and heavy, brimming with emotions I can't quite capture with words. As I watch him recede, the path ahead feels like uncharted territory, waiting to unfold into something beautiful and unknown.

************************************

Elena's exuberant voice greets me without missing a beat. "So, spill the tea! How was your day with Kai?"

I chuckle, a warm glow spreading within me. "It was incredible, Elena. And guess what? You were right."

Her eyes widen, her excitement palpable. "You mean..."

I nod, a shy smile gracing my lips. "Yeah, I told him how I feel."

Elena bursts into a delighted squeal, and her infectious joy makes me laugh along. She pulls me into a tight hug, her energy radiating. "I knew it! Oh, Adira, I'm so happy for you!"

As we disentangle from the hug, gratitude swells within me for Elena's intuition and encouragement. I share my plan to eventually tell her about the Derek incident, explaining my intention to gather more evidence before making any conclusions. She nods in understanding, her expression reflecting her support.

Later that night, armed with a journal, I sit down to record notes about Derek and our interactions. It's a small step, but I'm determined to gather information and find out whether he's the same person who caused my parents' death through that fateful hit and run. It's a painful memory, one that's haunted me for years, and I'm resolved to unveil the truth.

As if on cue, my phone buzzes, and I find a message from Kai. "Home safe. Kyong's already in his room, sleeping. 😄"

I type out a quick reply, thanking him for letting me know and expressing my relief that they're back safely. The night is tranquil, my thoughts a mix of excitement for the new chapter with Kai and curiosity about what lies ahead. Step by step, we'll find answers. Together.