Against the clock

30.

Surprised by the sudden kiss, I instinctively pushed Derek away, creating a distance between us. Confusion and a hint of concern crossed my face as I looked at him, 'Derek, what are you doing?' Derek's eyes, once filled with understanding, now reflected a mixture of surprise and realization. He took a step back, his hands dropping to his sides. 'I'm sorry, Meredith. I thought... I don't know what I was thinking. I am just-' Derek's voice softened as he continued, 'I am just... really happy.' The sincerity in his words was evident, and I could see a genuine warmth in his eyes. 'I- You are?' I asked, a mix of surprise and curiosity in my voice, seeking clarification on the depth of his emotions.

Derek's genuine happiness persisted, though tinged with an awareness of the complexity surrounding our situation. 'Yes, Meredith, I am happy. Despite the circumstances, the idea of having a child, makes me happy.' I couldn't help but acknowledge the sincerity in his words, and a small smile formed on my lips. 'It's a lot to process, Derek.' He reached out, gently placing a hand on my shoulder. 'I understand, but I needed you to know how I feel.'

'I appreciate that,' I replied, my uncertainty still lingering. Derek's eyes softened, and he took a step closer, a reassuring presence. 'I want you to really consider staying here. It will give us both some space to process everything and figure out what to do next.' I furrowed my brow, the suggestion taking me by surprise. 'Derek-'

Before I could say anything, he interjected, 'Addison isn't home. She won't be for a couple of weeks.' My eyes went wide with surprise, 'Weeks?' I asked, seeking confirmation. Derek nodded, a hint of relief evident on his face, 'She's on vacation with her sister.' My initial surprise gave way to a sense of realization, understanding the temporary opportunity presented by Addison's absence. Despite my hesitations, I nodded slowly, 'Okay, Derek. I'll... maybe staying here for a while is a good thing? But just for a short time, alright? I need to figure things out.'

Derek's eyes reflected gratitude and understanding, and he nodded in agreement. 'That's fair, Meredith. Take all the time you need. I want you to feel comfortable.' Derek disappeared into the kitchen, leaving me alone in the living room. As I was standing there, I instinctively kicked off my shoes, feeling the cool touch of the hardwood floor beneath my feet. I placed them neatly by the entrance, a tangible representation of my desire to leave behind the weight of the world outside.

I went back to the living room and settled into the cushions. I glanced around, noticing the familiar decor that hinted at the life Derek and Addison had built together. Pictures on the walls captured moments frozen in time – smiles, laughter, and the shared journey of a family. Just as I began to reflect, Derek reappeared, carrying a steaming bowl of soup in his hands. He approached me with a gentle smile, the warmth in his eyes reflecting a genuine concern. The aroma of the soup filled the room, inviting a sense of comfort and reassurance. He handed me the bowl, and I could feel the warmth radiating through my fingers. 'Here you go, Meredith,' he said softly, his eyes expressing a blend of empathy and support. The exchange of the bowl felt like an unspoken agreement, a shared moment of solace in the face of life's uncertainties.

I nodded appreciatively, meeting his gaze. 'You made this yourself?' I asked smiling at him. 'Of course, I have. I'm almost as good a teacher as a cook,' he replied with a hint of playful pride. As I enjoyed the warmth of the soup , Derek settled onto the couch next to me. In the quiet moment, I heard him suggest, 'Maybe we should go collect some stuff from your apartment.' I looked at him, appreciating the genuine concern in his eyes. 'That sounds like a good idea,' I replied, the weight of the task feeling lighter with his support, 'I could use some stuff.'

Derek nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting a mix of understanding and mischief. 'I'd like to go with you, Meredith. To knock George out.' I gasped, surprised by his unexpected declaration. 'Derek! You can't fight with your students.' He chuckled, his playful expression not waning. 'Alright, maybe not knock him out. But I can always fail him in class. That's a teacher's version of a showdown, right?' I rolled my eyes, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips.