Gaze (Dark Romance)

The Ripple

 "Her laughter filled the halls of the mansion, echoing like music. She'd finally found her happily ever after," I concluded with a flourish. Almost immediately, a wave of applause erupted from the group of little ones gathered around me. I work part-time at a creche, and even though my boss constantly overwhelms me with a mountain of files and impossible deadlines, my time here always feels like a breath of fresh air. The building may be quiet and a bit isolated, but it's a haven to me.

Lia, the youngest of the bunch, looked up at me with her trademark pout. "Avery! Tell us another one!" she pleaded, her eyes wide with anticipation. The story I'd just shared was one my grandfather used to tell me. He was always so lively and outgoing, and I knew I had a special place in his heart—his favorite, without a doubt.

"Of course, sweetie," I reassured her, leaning down to her level. "I'll tell you another story tomorrow. Your mama and papa will be here to pick you up soon."

"Promise?" Lia asked, holding out her tiny pinky finger.

"Promise," I whispered, linking my pinky with hers and sealing our little pact.

I gave her a gentle pat on the head and headed back to my desk to quickly gather my things. The clock was ticking, and I needed to catch the subway—missing that train simply wasn't an option.

I hurried down the stairs, already dialing Emily's number. She often gave me a ride to the Vividora subway station, and today was one of those days when I really needed it. Despite juggling two decent-paying jobs, saving up for my own car still seemed like a distant dream. I spent most of my money on clothes, but I didn't regret it one bit—especially when it meant catching a glimpse of that hottie on the subway every day.

I've been working at the creche for two years now, which also means I've been taking the subway for just as long. It was about a few months ago when he first appeared out of nowhere, like some kind of mirage. Since then, I've seen him almost every day, always there like clockwork, at the same time, on the same train.

Emily's car screeched to a halt, and I thanked her with a quick wave before dashing out to catch my train. For once, luck was on my side—the train was still at the platform, doors open, people spilling in and out. I darted inside and snagged my usual seat.

Sure enough, there he is, sitting in his usual corner with that same relaxed posture, looking like he doesn't have a care in the world. His eyes are focused on something outside the window, but I can never quite tell what he's thinking. He always seems so detached, so lost in his own thoughts.

I sneak a few glances in his direction, trying to be subtle, but he never looks my way. It's always like this. He's already on the train when I get on, and he stays on after I get off. I don't know where he gets on, and I've never seen him leave. He's a mystery, this guy, and maybe that's part of why I can't stop thinking about him.

The train jerks to a stop, my station. With a sigh, I stand up and make my way to the door. The usual routine: off the train, through the station, and then the walk home. It takes me about 30 to 40 minutes to get back, but I don't mind. I've always enjoyed walking alone, letting my thoughts wander as the world goes by.

The sun has set by the time I'm outside, and the chill in the air makes me shiver slightly. I pull my jacket a little tighter around myself. After a few minutes of walking, I spot CraveHub across the street. It's a cozy little place, perfect for grabbing a bite or meeting up with friends, and easily my favorite spot in the neighborhood.

I heard a chime and pulled my phone from my back pocket to check the notification. It was from Katie: "Bitch, come into CraveHub! I can literally see you through the window." I laughed and looked over at the café. Sure enough, there was Katie, waving enthusiastically and grinning from ear to ear.