seven souls seven sins

chapter 71: tough stuff

Natasha's pov:

I hear the faint ringing of my alarm clock in the background. I roll around my mattress for a few minutes before springing out of bed. Ouch, I forgot how sore my legs were from yesterday. I slide on my slippers and glide towards my closet. I change into athletic wear and go on a brief run.

Like coach said, a run a day keeps the doctor away.

As my watch beeps that I've hit my step goal for the morning I head back in and step into the shower. I turn on the nozzles and let the steamy water consume me. All that sweat and gunk from my daily sprint needs to be washed off before I can concentrate on the day. It also helps me smell divine in the process too.

Nothing beats a nice warm shower in the morning.

I hum to a beat as I apply my skincare and a gentle touch of mascara to lengthen my dark lashes. All done. I change into my uniform and pack my bag. I hobble downstairs and chuck my bag into Xander's trunk. Feeling in a happy mood, I skip to the breakfast bar.

Yesterday was good, I'm sure today will be even better.

I step into the area to find all of my brothers waiting for me. Hold up, they've already started eating? How late was I? I thought I only slept in for an extra five minutes, was I really that unpunctual? I thought that they'd wait for me, they always did. I shrug it off and begin my usual greetings. "Morning Adri!" I rush up to him expecting my usual kiss on the forehead, but was greeted with nothing instead.

He steps to the side and places my food on the counter.

"Morning Adri!" I try again, maybe he didn't hear me the first time. Nope, same response. He grabs my utensils and places them beside my breakfast. "The food smells delicious." I compliment his culinary skills. "Thanks." He nonchalantly nodded and gestured me towards a stool.

Confusion consumes my conscience.

Where was the usual 'G'morning Sunshine.' typically followed by a kiss? Did Adrien have a bad sleep? Did he get a nightmare? Was it a work call? I turn to face Vincent, hoping he will be more affectionate than his second in command. "Good morning Vince!" I wrap my arms around his torso, expecting his hands to go around my back.

Nothing.

He just stands there as I hug him, me looking like a fan in the process. I feel his body stiffen at my daily embrace. Devastation crawls up from my gut. "Vince?" I question and look up to him. "Morning." His angry voice booms throughout the room. "Looks like someone had a rough night." I joke and pull away.

Nobody laughs.

Huh, strange. I thought that at least one of the twins would chuckle, but no, nothing. I shrug it off, maybe they just haven't eaten enough food yet. Yep, that's surely the case. I take my seat in between Xander and Xavier. I begin to chew my waffles and ask Xavier about the maths homework.

"Close your mouth when you eat." He boldly states which makes me crack yet another joke.

"Jeez, when did you become so sour." I playfully punch his arm and all he does is ignore me. Did I lose all of my humour over night or something? "My legs are aching from yesterday." I mention, hoping that someone would initiate a conversation with me. "Then go to the gym more, it won't hurt as less." Chase gives me advice.