Her Best Second Chance

Chapter 31: Whole Soul

Solayne's POV

I am jolted awake by the sound of something tumbling over, lifting my head,a string of expletives follow, urging me to sit up.

An unsettling silence follows and I glance at the clock, the glowing digits piercing my tired eyes: 3:45 am.

With a deep, inward groan, I reluctantly slip on my slippers.

Heading down the stairs, I meet Arzhel who's just mounting the stairs, still clad in his worn work attire. Our eyes meet, and we both pause, momentarily frozen.

"You're just getting back from work?" I ask, glancing at the time. Arzhel nods wearily, his eyes drooping with exhaustion, and continues climbing. I watch him pass me on the steps, stopping just at the top.

"Sorry to wake you," he mumbles, his red, sleepy eyes struggling to stay open. Without waiting for my response, he shuffles down the hall, closing his bedroom door behind him. I fold my arms, staring at his closed door for a moment before turning to make my way back to my room.

Laying down I stay wide awake until I fall back into a slumber.

~*~

Morning arrived, and I woke up with a sigh. After making the bed and washing up, I headed downstairs.

Entering the sitting area, Arzhel sits on the couch, surrounded by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. He's sipping from a tea cup while typing away on his laptop.

"Good morning," I mumble, settling into the long couch. Memories of the previous night's events in that exact spot flood my mind, and I blush, looking away. Arzhel remains silent, but I sense his gaze on me. Turning to face him, I clear my throat, meeting his eyes.

"Do you have any plans for tonight?" Shifting his attention back to the screen, he resumes typing.

"Not really," I mumble, and he nods.

His eyes meet mine again, and he instructs, "Be ready by 8." I raise an eyebrow, puzzled by his sudden plans.

Sensing my confusion, he closes the laptop locking eyes with me.

"Where are we going?" I ask, my curiosity getting the better of me.

"Don't worry about it, just wear something nice," he says, his intense gaze lingers on mine before turning to leave.

""Is that a date?" I teased after him, my eyes following him into the kitchen as he rinsed his mug.

"Maybe," he tossed back, his voice laced with amusement.

Flushing with anticipation, I bite my lips trying to contain the grin fighting to unleash. Hiding my face, my insides erupt at the every thought of him asking me out.

'Gosh, I feel like a teenager again.'

Hearing his footsteps fade away, I glance at the spot he occupied seeing it empty. A soft chuckle escaped my lips as I shrug, somewhat accustomed to his ways by now.

Reaching for my phone, I am greeted with numerous text messages from Jasper.

Shoot! I totally forgot, he took a personal day today to help me move the few things the fire spared into his storage room. It's a painful reminder of what I lost, but I'm thankful for his support

With Myra leaving soon, her apartment will likely become available. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I can get it and have something of my own to call home again seeing she is uncertain if she wants to return.