Across the Ocean - Kyra Cooney-Cross

Chapter Twenty Three - Green and Gold

After my sister's unexpected visit and even more unexpected pregnancy announcement, I told her I needed a few days to get my thoughts together. Kyra kindly offered to pop over after training to help Laura around town and get her a UK SIM card. 

Surprisingly, I wasn't struggling with the news or her being in London. I was relieved that it didn't ruin all the hard work I'd put into myself over the past few weeks. 

With Kyra leaving for Dubai in just a day, I didn't want Laura to overshadow the precious moments I had left with her before she was gone.

The night before, I received a text from Charlie.

'I'm sorry I didn't tell you she was coming, El. Can you let me know how she goes? It's been a rough couple of weeks for her.' 

I replied simply, 

'It's okay, Charlie. I've got her. Thanks.'

Kyra got back late from helping Laura. As soon as she entered her flat, I couldn't keep my hands off her. 

I nestled into her neck, whispering, "Thank you, thank you, thank you," my words muffled by her skin. 

I pulled away, slipping my hands around the back of her neck.

She smiled softly. "She's actually really nice."

I smiled back. "I never said she was a monster...We are related ya know."

She chuckled mischievously. "Exactly, that's why I was so surprised." her sarcasm slipping off her tongue.

I shook my head, matching her sarcasm. "Ha ha ha." I leaned forward, pecking her lips quickly. "Come on, I already made you dinner." 

I let go of her, spinning around and walking towards the kitchen.

Kyra walked over to the dining table where simple salmon, rice, and vegetables were perfectly cooked and plated just for us. 

I sat down, picking up my wine glass and taking a sip. "Go on, eat. Hurry up."

She smiled, sitting down and picking up her water for a sip. "You know, Laura mentioned she saw you when you went home."

I instantly looked up from my plate. "When? In December?"

She nodded, casually taking a bite from her fork. "She saw you talking to Charlie."

I nodded. "That feels like forever ago." not a pang of hurt entering my heart.

She tilted her head, looking at me with soft eyes. "I'm really proud of you, you know."

Her words warmed every part of my once damaged heart. I smiled, and her hand reached across the table to take mine. My thoughts quickly floated back to the couple in Thai Rack, all those weeks ago.

"Have you finished packing?" I asked.

She shook her head. "Nope, I was hoping you'd help."

I sheepishly smiled and shook my head. In my best baby voice, I teased, "Does Kywa need help?"

She rolled her eyes, stabbing a piece of broccoli with her fork. 

By the time we finished dinner, I forced Kyra to her room and sat on the bed as she whined and dramatically stormed around, packing her bag.

"Are you sure you want to go?" I jokingly teased.

"I mean, I don't have to as long as the café pays enough to cover both our rents, feed us both, and your sister and her baby?" she scoffed. She continued, "Not to mention, I look great in green and gold."