Against the Law

Chapter 3: Propositions

James POV:

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across the city, I found myself in the dimly lit hospital room. I still couldn't get the angel that lay in the hospital bed out of my mind.

My heart raced with anticipation, unsure of what lay ahead. The events of the last few days had been a whirlwind, leading me to this moment- a crossroad between caution of the beauty or compassion.

I had known Emily for only a short time, but something about her fragile demeanor had touched me deeply. The raw pain etched on her face had mirrored the emptiness I had felt within myself for far too long. That is part of the reason why I had asked her to move in with me,

"W-what?" she asked me shocked.

I looked at her with determination in my eyes "I was wondering if you would consider moving in with me. I know it's a big step, but..." I trailed off after seeing the look on her face.

"Moving in together is a big decision, James. We've only known each other a few days and I was sleeping most of it." she answered back while fidgeting with her fingers.

"I know, I know. It may seem sudden, but it feels like the right thing to do. Please, just think about it."

Emily looked up at me with her green eyes "James, I appreciate your honesty and motivation to take care of me, but you know you don't have to do this, right? Me moving in is such a big commitment for two random strangers, and we need to be sure we're ready for that."

"I understand your concerns, Emily. And I don't want you to feel pressured. I knew someone who was in the same situation as you are, and I could've done more so please... let me help. Life isn't about playing it safe all the time, there's room for risk too."

After what felt like an eternity of silence, she finally looked up at me and nodded "You're right. Life is about taking chances and embracing the unknown. But moving in together requires trust, communication, and a solid foundation. We need to make sure we can do that before we dive right into this."

I give her a small smile and nod at her " I completely agree. Trust and communication are essential to any sort of relationship in order for it to thrive. And I'd like for us to take the time to build a foundation together. I just want to be able to look after you and keep you safe, Emily. Do you understand?"

Emily smiled showing me her beautiful teeth. It surprised me that they were so pretty considering the drug use. "Okay... I'll move in with you. But if-"

"If it doesn't feel right then we can figure out something else, I promise." I tell her with a smile.

___

After they allowed Emily to be discharged, I brought her back to my house. I pushed open the front door and allowed her to enter first. As she entered the house, she stood awkwardly in the center of the living room.

"Please, make yourself at home. Would you like to see where you'll be staying?" She nodded her head quietly. I was worried that she was getting too nervous to continue with the living arrangements.

As I made it to her room, I slowly opened the door for her. Sunlight poured through the big glass window in her room, making a light glow on the furniture in her room. I heard Emily gasp.

"Wow, this is beautiful! A-are you sure this is no trouble?" I smile at her enthusiasm.

"Of course not. I'd appreciate this room being put to use! I'll let you get settled, then if it's not too much trouble I'd like for you to meet me back in the living room." As I left her room, I saw a shimmer in her eyes that made her green eyes even more beautiful.

I went to the kitchen and decided to make us some pasta for dinner. I'm prepping my workspace and hear her quiet footsteps behind me before she speaks.

"Th-thank you so much for letting me stay here. I don't know how I'll ever repay you." I smile to myself and continue with making pasta.

I turn to look at her "It's honestly no trouble. Are you settling in alright? I know you just got here, but I just want you to be happy and comfortable."

"It's perfect!" Then she sends me another one of her breath-taking smiles. "Would you like any help with dinner? I can be pretty handy in the kitchen."

"Please." I move over so she can help me. I watch as she stirs the noodles and checks on the bread in the oven.

Um... can I ask you a question, James?"

"Of course."

She continues stirring so she doesn't have to look at me it seems. "Why did you want to help me? If you don't mind me asking."

My smile fades thinking about the history behind my hatred for drugs and my reason for joining the force. It makes me mad just thinking about it. I clear my throat "We'll talk about that another time, if you wouldn't mind."

She nodded but didn't seem offended by me holding back information.

The rest of the night was spent with us talking and getting to know each other. Just small talk really. I don't know when, but we eventually moved to the couch to keep talking and watching tv. When I looked over, I saw Emily curled up on the couch fast asleep. I grabbed the blanket off the back of the couch and covered it up before sitting back to finish the show I was watching.

I didn't realize how tired I was until I couldn't get up because of how exhausted I was, so I ended up closing my eyes until I was fast asleep.

Okay guys, I know this relationship is moving fast, but this is the pace I kind of was wanting so that it shows how much their relationship will improve in the future. I hope you're enjoying it though!