Abby 2: Abigail

Chapter 2

The storm had moved on during the night, leaving a quiet summer morning in its wake. Warm sunlight streamed through the windows, bathing the room in a golden glow as the scent of last night's rain lingered in the air. Outside, birds greeted the dawn with their song, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the early morning.

As I slowly emerged from slumber, the sound of my breath matched the rhythmic inhale and exhale of Eden's, who lay fast asleep next to me. I curled into his body, letting a soft sigh escape my lips as the cool sheets contrasted with his warm, masculine frame.

His heartbeat was faint against my ear as my fingertips found the lingering marks from our intense session the previous night. I loved how they stood out against my pale skin the next day, each a visible testament to our connection. There was always something satisfying about carrying the temporary evidence of our play—a secret reminder of our intense passion.

But as much as I would have loved to stay wrapped up in his arms forever, the anticipation of returning to the Fleur-de-lis began tugging at me. A thrill rippled through me at the thought of performing with Elizabeth tomorrow at the Saturday night party. I was caught between two worlds, welcoming my time spent with Eden with equal measure to my life at the Fleur-de-lis. The small, insistent voice inside my head nagged at me as always, whispering about the fleeting nature of love, the fear of abandonment. I tried to push it away, focusing instead on the warmth and security I felt lying next to Eden, but the seed of doubt lingered like a protective shield around my heart.

"Good Morning, Abs."

Eden's voice interrupted my thoughts as he stretched. I hummed in response, smiling as I heard his pet name for me while I snuggled closer to him. His hand found mine as I traced the marks he had left on my soft flesh.

"Do they hurt?"

My smile widened as my green eyes flickered open to meet his gaze. "Only in all the right ways."

He leaned into me and kissed my head as his other hand moved down to caress my tender bottom, eliciting a soft moan. "Good."

Shifting his weight, he pulled me onto him as I looked down, my hair falling over his face. He brushed a strand away, tucking it behind my ear while he gazed into my eyes, penetrating my soul.

"You're thinking about the club."

Damn him. He always seemed to read my thoughts. "Yeah."

"You don't have to go."

I took a breath, steeling my resolve. "I have a performance this weekend with Elizabeth. Although part of me doesn't want to leave."

"Then don't," he said, capturing my hand and pressing another kiss against my palm. "Stay here with me."

The thought, while tempting, was also overwhelming. I would have loved to abandon everything, but at what cost? Independence? My newfound identity? My freedom?

"I would love to, Eden, but it's my job. And it's important to me."

"Ah, the Fleur-de-lis and its enigmatic allure," he said. His thick sarcasm made me smile, knowing he accepted the way things were. For now, at least.

"Before you go, though, there is a cozy little restaurant in town..."

❖

The mid-morning sun shone in full force as Eden's convertible whispered through the winding country road to our destination.

"Rödenbruck," he said as we approached the small town nestled in an embrace of green hills. His voice was deep and resonant, like the smooth rumble of the car engine. "It's almost like stepping back in time."