Falling For You [ Ryan Rees - Twin Paranormal ]

13

Ryan sat at the kitchen table, his fingers drumming anxiously on the surface as he watched Winter prepare for work. The familiar clinks of dishes and the scent of fresh coffee filled the air, but Ryan's mind was elsewhere. It had been a peaceful morning, but as Winter pulled on his leather jacket and reached for his helmet, Ryan's heart tightened with a mixture of worry and fear.

Winter turned around, sensing his boyfriend's unease. His eyes softened as he took in the sight of Ryan, who was clearly trying to hide his apprehension. Winter crossed the kitchen and cupped Ryan's face in his hands, his thumbs brushing gently across Ryan's cheeks.

"Hey," Winter said softly, his voice soothing. "I'll be fine, Ryan. I promise. You know I've been extra careful ever since the accident."

Ryan nodded, but the worry didn't leave his eyes. "I know, Win. It's just... it's hard not to think about what happened. I don't want to lose you."

Winter smiled reassuringly, leaning in to press a tender kiss to Ryan's lips. "You're not going to lose me. I promise. As soon as I get to work, I'll call you. Okay?"

Ryan sighed, his shoulders relaxing slightly under Winter's touch. "Okay. Just... be careful out there."

Winter gave a playful salute, trying to lighten the mood. "Yes, sir! Now, go have some coffee and relax. I'll be back before you know it."

As Winter headed out the door, he paused and turned back to Ryan. "I love you," he said, the words warm and sincere.

"I love you too," Ryan replied, his heart swelling with emotion. "See you soon."

With one last smile, Winter slipped on his helmet and mounted his motorbike. Ryan watched from the window as Winter started the engine, the sound rumbling through the morning air. As Winter rode off, Ryan couldn't help but feel a pang of anxiety, but he took a deep breath, reminding himself of Winter's promise.

The minutes ticked by slowly, each one feeling like an eternity. Ryan busied himself with chores around the house, trying to keep his mind occupied. The sound of the vacuum cleaner, the clatter of dishes, and even the rhythmic hum of the washing machine provided a temporary distraction, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Winter.

Finally, the phone rang, and Ryan nearly sprinted to answer it. He picked it up with shaky hands, relief flooding through him when he heard Winter's voice on the other end.

"Hey, love. I made it to work safe and sound," Winter said, his tone cheerful.

Ryan let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Thank God. I was so worried."

"I know, Ry. But you don't have to worry so much. I'm being careful. Plus, I have a job to do here. They need me to make the best coffee in town, remember?"

Ryan chuckled, the tension in his chest easing. "Yeah, I remember. Just promise me you'll be safe on your way back home too."

"Promise," Winter said firmly. "Now, go have a good day, and I'll see you tonight. Love you."

"Love you too," Ryan replied before hanging up.

Ryan felt a sense of calm wash over him. He knew he had to trust Winter and believe in his ability to stay safe. As he sat back down at the kitchen table, he smiled, thinking about how far they had come in their relationship.

River and Wyatt entered the kitchen, having observed the exchange. They exchanged a knowing glance before River spoke up. "He'll be okay, Ryan. Winter's a tough guy."

Ryan nodded, but the worry lines on his face didn't disappear. "I know, it's just... that accident really scared me. What if his ex tries something again?"

Wyatt placed a comforting hand on Ryan's shoulder. "Winter's strong, and he's got us looking out for him. He's not alone anymore."

"I guess you're right," Ryan said, forcing a smile.

~

A little while later and the anxiety lingered, gnawing at the edges of his mind.

River and Wyatt noticed Ryan's restless demeanor and exchanged another glance. River walked over, sitting down beside Ryan. "You know, it might help if you went to see him. Grab a coffee or something."

Ryan shook his head. "I don't want to bother him at work. I don't want to seem... desperate."

Wyatt laughed lightly. "You're not bothering him my brother loves you. He'd probably love to see you. And besides, we can see you're not settled. Go. It'll make you feel better."

After a moment's hesitation, Ryan nodded. "Alright, maybe you're right."

He grabbed his keys and headed out to the car. The twenty-minute drive felt longer than usual as his mind raced with thoughts of Winter. He arrived at the café, the familiar sign welcoming him. Taking a deep breath, he walked inside.

Winter was behind the counter, a warm smile spreading across his face when he saw Ryan. "Hey, what are you doing here?" he asked, walking over to greet him.

"I just wanted to see you," Ryan admitted, feeling a bit sheepish. "Is that okay?"

"Of course it's okay," Winter replied, taking his hand. "I'm glad you came."

They found a quiet corner, and Winter brought over two steaming mugs of coffee. They sat together, the warmth of the drink and Winter's presence soothing Ryan's nerves.

"I'm sorry I got so worried," Ryan said, looking into Winter's eyes. "I just... I care about you so much. I don't want anything to happen to you."

Winter squeezed his hand. "I know, and I appreciate it. But you can't let the fear control you. I'm here, and I'm okay."

Ryan nodded, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. "You're right. I just need to trust that things will be okay."

They spent the next hour talking, laughing, and simply enjoying each other's company. When it was time for Ryan to leave, he felt much more at ease.

As he drove back home, Ryan realized how much Winter had come to mean to him. Their relationship had started in uncertain times, but now, two months on since the accident, it was stronger than ever. Winter had brought a sense of peace and happiness into his life that he hadn't felt in a long time.

Back at home, Ryan walked in to find River and Wyatt waiting expectantly. "How was it?" River asked.

"It was good," Ryan said with a genuine smile. "Really good. Thanks for convincing me to go."

Wyatt grinned. "Anytime."

The rest of the day passed more smoothly. Ryan had returned home with a lighter heart, feeling reassured after seeing Winter. That night, as Winter walked into Ryan's room, Ryan breathed a sigh of relief. Winter slipped into bed next to him, laying his head on Ryan's chest.

"See? I told you I'd be fine," Winter murmured, his voice muffled against Ryan's chest.

Ryan wrapped his arms around him, holding him close. "I know. I just worry because I love you."