Unlawful Shadows | +18

Chapter 11

Elowen's POV

I found myself immersed in the familiar hustle and bustle of a café, the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans lingering in the air. Among the crowd of hurried individuals, I spotted Zander occupying a table by the window, engrossed in a phone conversation. Determined, his gaze remained fixed on me, an unspoken message in his eyes.

I was still surprised he wanted to come here. Zander and I were in the car, heading to the firm. We were a few blocks away when I caught sight of this café. During my daily walks to work, I'd pass by it, silently wishing for a chance to step inside. However, the high prices had always kept me at bay, but a girl can wish.

I was sitting in the car, looking the at the café longingly, before Zander suddenly asked the driver to stop the car. We were still a few blocks away so I looked at Zander in confusion. 

"Coffee," was all he said in his gruff voice as he gestured towards the cute little place.

Well, I'm certainly not complaining.

Weaving through the maze of tables, I made my way to the counter, placing an order for Zander's usual americano and my caramel macchiato. As I paid, the barista's hands moved swiftly, crafting the aromatic concoctions that promised to jumpstart our day.

Of course his drink of choice is an americano. Why am I not surprised? 

With two steaming cups in hand, I approached Zander's table. He acknowledged me with a subtle nod, accepting the coffee as he continued his conversation. "Yes, I understand the urgency of the Thompson case," he spoke into the phone, his voice carrying a confident undertone. "Make sure the legal team is thorough with the background check. We need every detail before we proceed."

I could only catch snippets of the conversation, but it was evident that the case held a significant weight. Zander's expressions shifted from thoughtful contemplation to decisive authority as he discussed legal strategies. 

I stared outside the window, sipping at my coffee, as I looked at the people passing-by. I sighed in content, wishing all of my mornings started off like this. Fancy coffee and watching people, what more could a girl want?

I looked at Zander, who still had his eyes on me, as he spoke into the phone about the technicalities of his case. His coffee cup was sitting in front oh him, empty. I finished off mine before taking his cup and mine, pointing towards the bin a few steps away. He nodded at me as he kept talking away on his phone, his voice growing frustrated. 

Walking towards the bin, I spotted my landlord sitting a few tables away. 'What the fuck is he doing here?' I muttered as I lowered my head, trying to make sure I don't run into that despicable man. 

I've had a great morning and I definitely want to keep it that way.

I threw away our cups and was about to turn around but suddenly he was there, standing right in front of me. I tried to brush past him, hoping to avoid any confrontation, but he couldn't stop himself from being a pain in my ass.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't little Elowen. Fancy seeing you here darling, you'd think this place is out of budget for you."

Still hoping to avoid talking to him, I tried to sidestep him but he blocked my way again. He leered at me, his eyes going over my body as he licked his lips. 

Disgusting.

"You've still not given me rent for this month, baby. You know, you don't have to live there anymore. You should consider upgrading. I know a few of my places you might be able to afford... only if you're willing to, you know, work something out," he sneered, his tone dripping with insinuation.