𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐞 || A Mafia Love Story

xxvii

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Marlee woke the next morning with a burst of excitement, her heart racing as she threw off her covers and jumped out of bed. Today was the day she planned to text Polina and see if she wanted to hang out. The morning sunlight streamed through her window, casting a warm glow over her room, making everything feel more vibrant and hopeful.

Marlee quickly grabbed her phone from the nightstand and found Polina's name in her contacts. Her fingers flew across the screen as she typed out a message, her mind buzzing with anticipation.

Marlee: Hey Lina! It's me, Marlee!

She placed her phone on the dresser and began brushing her hair, humming a cheerful tune. The familiar chime of an incoming message made her stop mid-stroke. She leapt onto her bed, grabbing her phone eagerly.

Polina: Hi, Marlee! What you up to today?

Marlee's smile widened as she typed back, her excitement building.

Marlee: Nothing much, I was actually planning on asking you if you'd like to hang out today.

Seconds felt like hours as Marlee stared at the screen, waiting for a reply. Her stomach fluttered with nerves. Did Lina not see her as a good friend?

Polina: I'd love to! What time?

Relief washed over Marlee as she glanced at her alarm clock, estimating how long it would take to get ready and walk to town. Her mom had taken the truck for work today, so she'd have to hoof it.

Marlee: Meet me at the coffee shop in town in 30 if you can!

The wait for Polina's response was excruciating.

Polina: Alright!

Marlee sprang from her bed, her movements a blur of excitement. She pulled on a pair of overall shorts and a fitted lacy white t-shirt beneath. After brushing her teeth and slipping into her shoes, she grabbed her bag and practically flew out the door.

The walk to town was invigorating. The morning air was crisp, and the birds chirped a lively tune as Marlee sped along the sidewalk, her heart thumping with anticipation. The town was already buzzing with activity, shopkeepers opening their doors and the scent of fresh bread wafting from the bakery.

Marlee reached the coffee shop, a cozy little place with a charming rustic vibe. She paused outside, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves before pushing open the door. The bell above the entrance jingled softly, announcing her arrival.

Inside, the rich aroma of coffee mingled with the sweet scent of pastries. The soft murmur of conversations created a comforting background hum. Marlee spotted an empty table by the window and sat down, her eyes scanning the room for Polina.

A few minutes later, Polina walked in, her face lighting up when she saw Marlee. She was wearing jean shorts and a dark tanktop, her dark hair cascading over her shoulders.

"Hey, Marlee!" Polina greeted with a warm smile as she approached the table.

"Hey, Lina! I'm so glad you could make it," Marlee replied, her excitement bubbling over.

They ordered their drinks—a caramel latte for Marlee and an iced mocha for Polina—and settled into their chairs, the conversation flowing easily.

"So, have you read anything interesting lately?" Polina asked, taking a sip of her drink.

Marlee nodded eagerly. "Yes! I just finished 'The Night Circus.' It was magical. The descriptions were so vivid, I felt like I was actually there."

Polina's eyes sparkled with interest. "I've heard great things about that book! I'll have to add it to my list. I'm currently reading 'The Starless Sea' by the same author. It's just as enchanting."

"I'll have to check that one out next," Marlee said, her excitement growing. "I love getting lost in those kinds of worlds."

They continued to discuss their favorite books, the conversation naturally shifting to movies and TV shows.

"Have you seen the latest season of 'Stranger Things'?" Polina asked, leaning forward in her seat.

Marlee's eyes widened. "Yes! It was so intense. I couldn't believe the twist at the end."

Polina nodded in agreement. "I know, right? I was on the edge of my seat the whole time."

As they chatted, Marlee realized how much she enjoyed Polina's company. They laughed and shared stories, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.

"So, what are your plans for the summer?" Marlee asked, taking a bite of her pastry.

Polina shrugged. "Not much, really. I was thinking about taking a road trip to the coast. What about you?"

Marlee smiled. "That sounds fun! I might work at the bookstore down the street. I'm not sure yet though."

"That sounds like a dream job," Polina said with a grin. "Maybe I'll stop by and visit you there."

"I'd love that," Marlee replied, feeling a warm glow of happiness. "We could grab lunch or something."

"It's a date," Polina agreed, raising her iced mocha in a toast.

Marlee clinked her caramel latte against Polina's glass, feeling a sense of contentment. She had a feeling this was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Later, as Polina learned that Marlee had walked to the café, a grave look settled over her face.

"Marlee, if you ever need a ride, please don't hesitate to ask," Polina said, her voice filled with concern as she led Marlee to her car.

"I don't want you walking anymore," she added firmly as she settled into the driver's seat.

Marlee slid into the passenger side, her thoughts a mix of gratitude and unease. The drive back to Marlee's house was filled with a comfortable silence, broken only by the soft hum of the engine and the occasional turn signal click.

When they arrived, Marlee stepped out of the car and turned to Polina, offering a grateful smile. "Thanks, Lina. I really appreciate it."

Polina returned the smile but her eyes held a trace of worry. "Anytime. See you later, dorogaya!"

Marlee waved goodbye as Polina drove away, her words echoing in her mind. She couldn't help but feel a tinge of unease at Lina's insistence, but she also felt a warm sense of belonging.

Thank you for reading! <3
Viktor will be back next chapter! 🤞