Black Magic

Chapter 18: Thomas and Astrid

THOMAS' POV

As I made my way to Astrid's house, clutching a bouquet of colorful flowers, a mixture of excitement and nervousness bubbled up inside me.

I couldn't help but wonder how she would react to my surprise visit. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart, and then I knocked on her door.

Moments later, the door swung open, revealing Astrid standing there, her eyes widening with surprise.

A smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I held out the bouquet towards her.

"Why hello there, Astrid," I said playfully, raising an eyebrow. "I heard you were in desperate need of some flower power."

Astrid's initial shock melted into a giggle as she accepted the flowers. "Well, I suppose I can't say no to some flower power. And desperate is a bit of an understatement, Thomas."

I chuckled, enjoying the easy banter between us. "You know me, always here to save the day with my-" I flex my nonexistent mucles, "Dashing prince charming look"

Astrid rolled her eyes with mock exasperation. "Oh, lucky me. The knight in shining armor armed with puns."

I couldn't help but laugh at her response, feeling a surge of happiness.

We continued to exchange playful banter as I kept cracking jokes, each one making Astrid laugh even more.

It was delightful to see her smile and hear her infectious laughter.

Amidst the laughter, Astrid's tone turned a bit serious. "So, Thomas, have you heard the latest gossip? Aiden and I...well, we're no longer together."

I feigned surprise, pretending to clutch my chest dramatically. "What? You mean I've been eavesdropping on your conversations for nothing? I feel so betrayed!"

Astrid playfully scolded me, her eyes sparkling. "Thomas, you are incorrigible. But seriously, how did you find out?"

I shrugged casually. "Oh, you know, the walls have ears. Or maybe it's just my superpower to tune in on interesting conversations."

Before Astrid could respond, her father's voice called out from inside the house. She turned her head and sighed. "Duty calls, I'm afraid."

Quickly, she excused herself and shut the door behind her, leaving me standing outside.

I playfully pouted and turned around, pretending to wipe away an imaginary tear. "Rejected...again!"

Astrid's voice floated from behind the closed door. "Don't be so dramatic, Thomas. I'll catch up with you later!"