when i turned 18

Red Light {Chapter 10}

Sunday, August 4th, 9:30 A.M.

I woke up to the soft weight of Cassidy's head on my chest, her rhythmic breathing a gentle reassurance against my skin. Her hand rested lightly on my chest, fingers curled slightly, and she was rested in the warmth of the blankets. I was relieved that our night together had remained peaceful, with just the simple pleasure of kissing and being close.

I realized, in this moment, just how much she meant to me. She had always made me feel good, lifting my spirits even in the toughest times. Admitting to myself that I hadn't always been fair to her was a sobering realization, given the shit we've been through together.

Despite the challenges, I was determined to pursue a deeper relationship with her, ready to embrace both the difficult moments and the joys that lay ahead. I knew I was willing to go the extra mile for her, to support her in every way possible.

As I lay there, tempted to wake her, I hesitated, torn between the desire to share the morning with her and the reluctance to wake her. In the end, seeing her so beautifully asleep, her expression serene and content, I decided to let her sleep a little longer, savoring the quiet moment of connection between us.

About 20 minutes later, Cassidy finally woke up, her short hair slightly mussed as she greeted me with a very groggy "Good morning, Andrew." She yawned big and stretched, the morning light casting a soft glow on her features, before reaching for her phone to check her social media.

I replied, admiring her freshly awakened eyes, still beautiful even in their sleepy state. "Good morning," I said softly.

She yawned again and looked at me, her gaze filled with a mix of gratitude and exhaustion. "You didn't have to stay, you know."

"I know," I replied with a smile, feeling content just being in her presence. "I wanted to stay with you, Cass."

She mumbled "Mm" before closing her eyes, succumbing to the call of sleep once more. Deciding to let her rest, I quietly got up and headed for the shower, leaving her to her peaceful slumber.

After finishing my refreshing shower, I hastily dried off and got dressed. I then made my way into the living room, eager to catch up with Jamie, Cassidy's aunt, whom I assumed would be there. As I entered the room, my eyes instinctively darted towards the large windows framing the front door, revealing the absence of Jamie's car in the driveway. Undeterred, I proceeded into the kitchen, where a neatly folded note caught my attention as it rested on the countertop:

"Cassidy, I'll be out of town for three days. I have a business trip planned out of spite, I apologize, sweetie, but I'll be back to help you set up the nursery for the baby!! I'm so excited. I sent you $1000. That should help with groceries and food. Love you.

xoxo, Auntie"

I smiled at the note, touched by the support Cassidy had. It must be comforting for her, especially with her mom being unsupportive. Deciding to lift her spirits, I prepared breakfast in bed, whipping up waffles, eggs, and juice. Juice is always a hit, regardless of age.

After finishing breakfast, I entered Cassidy's room, gently waking her with a back rub and the enticing aroma of breakfast. "I made you breakfast, sleepyhead," I whispered softly.

She stirred, calling me a softie, and hugged me gratefully. After giving her some time to freshen up, I set the table with our meals.

As Cassidy sauntered over to the table, the early morning sunlight danced on her face, accentuating her radiant smile. I pulled out a chair for her, a simple gesture of hospitality, and gently pushed it in as she settled in.

Returning her smile, I initiated, "I hope you enjoy. You deserve to be taken care of."

Her gratitude was palpable as she thanked me and eagerly dug into her waffles, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the sweet scent of maple syrup.