Sparkle | Saltburn

07

The dawn light filtered through the blinds, casting a soft glow over Phoebe's dorm room. She lay cuddled up next to Michael, their bodies comfortably intertwined under the covers. They hadn't crossed the final line, but the intimacy they shared was deep, the night having created a bond that felt unbreakable. Michael held her close, his heart full and his mind spinning with thoughts of what could be.

Phoebe stirred, lifting her head to look at him, her eyes still heavy with sleep but bright with something more.

"Michael," She said softly, her voice barely above a whisper, "do you want to spend the summer with me?"

Michael's heart skipped a beat. He searched her eyes, seeing the genuine hope and vulnerability in them. He smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

"Of course I do," He replied, his voice filled with sincerity.

Phoebe's smile widened, her eyes sparkling. She lifted her hand, gently removing Michael's glasses, setting them on the bedside table. She looked into his eyes, her expression turning serious.

"Come with me to Saltburn," She said, her tone filled with an earnest plea.

Michael's heart sank. He knew all too well what Saltburn represented. It was Felix's family estate, a place filled with memories and people who likely didn't think much of him. He hesitated, his mind racing with thoughts of Felix's disdain and the awkwardness that would inevitably follow.

"I... I don't think I can," He stammered, struggling to find the right words.

Phoebe's brows furrowed in confusion.

"But I want you there," She said, her voice tinged with disappointment and a touch of sadness.

Michael felt a pang in his chest. He wanted to be with Phoebe more than anything, to spend the summer by her side, to be a part of her world. But the thought of facing Felix and the others who looked down on him was too much.

"Phoebe," He said gently, "I can't. I don't belong there. They don't want me there."

Phoebe's face fell, her eyes reflecting her hurt and confusion.

" I want you there," She repeated, her voice soft but insistent.

Michael sighed, his heart aching at the sight of her distress. Phoebe shook her head, not understanding why Michael was refusing.

"But we can still have right now," Michael said, trying to comfort her, even though he knew it was a hollow promise.

Phoebe nodded, though her expression remained sad. She nestled back into his arms, her head resting on his chest. Michael held her close, his heart heavy with the weight of his decision. He wanted to be with her, to share her world, but the reality of their situation loomed over him like a dark cloud.

As the morning light grew brighter, they lay together in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Michael's mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He loved Phoebe, but he knew that being with her meant facing challenges he wasn't sure he could handle. He wanted to be the man she deserved, but the shadow of Felix and the life she was a part of felt like an insurmountable obstacle.

Phoebe's soft breathing brought him back to the present. He looked down at her, seeing the trust and affection in her eyes. She didn't understand why he couldn't come with her, and that made it all the harder. He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, trying to convey his feelings through that simple gesture.

Michael knew that he would carry this with him, a precious memory to hold onto in the days to come. And Phoebe, though saddened by his refusal, found strength in his love, knowing that their connection was real and profound.