Purple - A Riff Lorton Love Story

We Woke Up in Each Other's Arms

As I opened my eyes, I realized that I wasn't alone in my room. Riff was sleeping right beside me, holding me tightly. His arms were wrapped around me protectively, and I could feel his warmth against my body. It was then that I realized that I was in my own bed, in my own room, in my own apartment with Riff. I watched him as he stirred in his sleep, his eyes fluttering open and closed. He let out a groan and mumbled, "Five more minutes." I couldn't help but smile as he pulled me closer and nestled his face into my shoulder. I ran my fingers through his hair, stroking it gently, and he let out a contented sigh.

I stopped stroking his hair for a moment and just looked at him. He was so handsome, with his tousled hair and peaceful expression. "Don't stop," he mumbled into my shoulder, making me giggle. I resumed running my hand through his hair, and we sat there like that for a long time, lost in the moment. Riff had fallen back asleep, and I watched as his chest rose and fell with each breath. Suddenly, he stirred again, and this time, he moved to look at me. His eyes were soft, not filled with his usual mischief.

"Good morning, sleepy head," I snickered, trying to lighten the mood.

Instead of responding, he kissed me. His lips were soft and warm against mine, and I felt my heart skip a beat. "Good morning," he spoke against my lips and kissed me again.

"You've got to let me go, Riff. I've got to get ready," I said, reluctantly pulling away from him.

"No," he protested, pulling me back into his embrace. "You need to stay in bed."

"What if I bring you some breakfast when I make Papi something?" I suggested, trying to compromise.

"You're gonna get up no matter what, aren't ya?" he asked, groaning.

"Mhm," I replied, knowing I had to get up eventually.

As I got out of bed, I noticed a small sheet of paper by the door. Curious, I reached over and grabbed it. It was a note from Papi.

Julieta,

Me siento demasiado apretujado aquí. Sé que no te gustará,

pero salgo con Luis. Que tengas un buen día libre. Te amo.

Papi

I didn't know how to feel about it. On the one hand, I was glad he was getting out of the house, but on the other hand, I was still worried about his health.

While I was lost in thought, Riff sat up and scooted over to me. He placed one leg around me and sat behind me, resting his head on my shoulder. "Jules?" he said softly.

"Hmm?" I hummed, still lost in thought.

"You've been staring at that for five minutes, doll," he said, trying to bring me back to the present.

"Really?" I turned to look back at him. "I'm just worried about him, is all," I sighed.

"He'll be okay, Jules. If he's as tough as you, he can get through it," Riff reassured me.

"I just don't know what I'd do if he had another heart attack and didn't make it," I sniffled, a tear running down my cheek.

Riff wiped away the tear with his thumb. "No matter what happens, I'm here for you, Jules. You're not getting rid of me anytime soon," he said, giving me a warm smile.

I smiled back at him, grateful to have him by my side. I leaned in and kissed him, feeling the warmth of his lips against mine. I knew that everything would be okay as long as we were together.

Riff and Julieta had decided to cook breakfast together that morning. As they stood side by side in the kitchen, Riff couldn't help but sneak glances at Julieta. She looked so beautiful, her hair tied back in a messy bun and an apron tied around her waist.

"So, what are we making?" Riff asked, trying to break the silence.

"Papi likes his eggs sunny side up, toast, bacon, and coffee," Julieta explained, grabbing a frying pan from the cupboard.

"Got it," Riff said, grabbing the bacon from the fridge. "I'm on bacon duty." Julieta smiled and turned on the stove, cracking a few eggs into the frying pan. Riff stood beside her as she cooked, watching her with interest.

"You know, you look really cute in that apron," Riff said, a playful grin on his face.

Julieta laughed and nudged him with her elbow. "Stop it, Riff. I'm trying to cook here."

"I'm serious," Riff said, leaning in closer. "You look really sexy."

Julieta blushed and turned away, trying to hide her smile. "You're such a flirt."

Riff chuckled and leaned in to kiss her neck. "You love it," he whispered, making her shiver. As they cooked, they flirted and teased each other, stealing kisses whenever possible.

Riff helped Julieta set the table, pouring coffee into two mugs and placing them on the table. Finally, they were ready to serve breakfast. Julieta carried the plates of food to the table, and Riff followed with the bacon. They sat down and began to eat, enjoying the delicious food and each other's company. As they ate, Riff couldn't help but feel grateful for this moment. He was so lucky to have Julieta and knew he never wanted to let her go. He reached across the table and took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

Julieta looked up at him, a smile on her face. "What?" she asked.

"I just feel really lucky to be here with you," Riff said, his eyes meeting hers.

Julieta smiled and squeezed his hand back. "Me too," she said softly. As they finished their breakfast, they talked and laughed, enjoying the simple pleasure of each other's company.

As Riff got dressed in his tank top, sneakers, and jeans, Julieta watched him with a worried look on her face. She knew what was happening tonight - the rumble between the Jets and Sharks.

"Riff, you don't have to go," she said softly, reaching out to touch his arm.

Riff turned to face her, his expression serious. "Jules, you know I have to go. I'm the leader of the Jets, and they need me there."

"But what if something happens to you?" Julieta asked, her voice trembling.

"I'll be careful, I promise," Riff said, pulling her into a tight embrace. "I'll come back to you, I swear."

Julieta hugged him back, burying her face in his chest. "I don't want you to go," she whispered.

"I know, baby, I know," Riff said, kissing the top of her head. "But I have to."

Julieta sighed and pulled away from him, her eyes brimming with tears. "Just be careful, okay? Promise me you'll be careful."

"I promise," Riff said, taking her hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I'll be back before you know it."

Julieta nodded, trying to hold back her tears. "Okay," she said softly. "Just be careful."

Riff nodded and leaned in to kiss her, his lips lingering on hers for a moment. Julieta watched as he turned and walked out the door. She stood there for a moment, feeling a sense of dread wash over her. She knew that the rumble could end badly, and the thought of losing Riff was too much to bear.