Beyond

Chapter 15

Jesse

My eyes fluttered open at the sudden knock on the door. I was in a daze as I got out of bed. The memories from last night flashed in my mind, but I was supposed to be in Payne's room.

I stared at the bear that I was hugging in my sleep. "Was that all a dream?" I muttered while frowning.

If Payne transferred me back to my room, I would've known that I was being moved since I'm a light sleeper. I would wake up even with just a slight turn from Ricky or Julian during their sleepover.

Someone knocked again. I let out a groan before opening the door.

"Good morning." The servant bowed. "Breakfast is ready." I nodded my head before the servant left.

I could still feel his warmth lingering on my lips when we kissed under the snow. His request, his words, his confession are all drilled into my mind.

How could all of that just be a dream?

"It all felt real..."

The corners of my lips were curled down the whole time I got ready for breakfast. I felt like crying. That moment brought me happiness, but I can't believe it was fleeting.

My hand reached for my lips as I looked at myself in the mirror. I met his lips in my dream, and we were even hugging each other as I was about to fall asleep.

I crouched down with a sigh, defeated. "How could it not be real?"

"Good morning," I said the moment I entered the dining hall.

"Good morning," Payne said, greeting me back with a smile. My heart started pounding as I went towards him and took a seat next to him.

I found myself looking at his lips. I quickly averted my eyes before he caught me. "When did the servants get here?"

"They came here before the sun had risen," he answered.

I gulped down, wondering what I should say as I needed to confirm whether what happened last night was real or not.

I observed him keenly, his face showing no signs of anxiety or nervousness.

I mean, if you meet your lover the next morning, you would greet them a good morning along with a kiss—at least that's what my parents do. We should also be holding each other's hands since I'm right next to him.

Does that confirm that it's all just a dream?

Then... he still loves Anna.

"What's on your mind?" Payne asked when he caught me staring at him. "Is there anything you want?"

"Nothing," I said before looking away.

Both of us ate in silence. Payne seemed to be in a good mood since a smile never faded from his lips.

Even though he's handsome with that smile, I don't like the reason behind it, for the reason is definitely because he's able to meet Anna again after two weeks, even though we saw her with someone else during the Snow Festival.

I was on my way to the garden to water the roses, and my mind was still floating around the dream that I had.

"I wish it was real." I groaned before leaning my head against the wall, discouraged.

"Jesse!" Anna's voice called me from behind.

I stood up straight before looking behind my back, seeing Anna approaching. "The garden is so pretty! I thought I went to the wrong house when I first came here!" Anna said, making me chuckle.