Tangled Hearts.

~Chapter 53~

~Raelyn~

~July 6th~

The dim glow of fairy lights cast a soft, ethereal glow over the room as I scribbled down the last of my calculus equations. The office, a sanctuary of my own making, was a world away from the usual starkness of the trap house, with plush throws and whimsical decorations that made the space feel like a cozy cocoon.

With a flourish, I dropped my pen, leaning back in my chair, a satisfied sigh escaping my lips. That's when the knock came, a rhythmic tap that seemed to break the spell of concentration I had woven around myself.

My flitted to the door, where Colby stood, his frame filling the doorway, a lazy grin on his face. "Hey, Rae, whatcha doing in this cozy little cave of yours?"

I couldn't help but smile back, my heart doing a little dance at the sight of him. "Just wrestling with the calculus beast. And guess what? I won.

He chuckled, stepping inside. "I swear, I don't know how mathematicians do it. To me, it's like trying to read ancient Greek."

"Right? It's like math tolerates me about as much as your dad does," I quipped, my smile turning wry.

Colby winced, the reminder of his father's less-than-warm feelings for me a sore subject. His dad, staunchly werewolf, had never taken kindly to my vampire heritage. "I'm sorry about him Rae, you know I wish I could change him."

I waved a dismissive hand, my silver eyes glinting with humor. "Oh, please. I've been the silver-eyed freak since grade school. Your dad's just another Monday to me.

Sighing, Colby moved closer, his gaze softening as he took in my appearance. "Well, for what it's worth, you look amazing. That sweat set looks like it was made for cozy calculus sessions."

I laughed, sliding my papers aside. "Thanks, it's my 'I want to be comfortable while my brain ties itself into knots' outfit." I said as I stretched.

"But... on a lighter note, you want to go grab a bite to eat? It feels like forever since we've gone on a date." I smiled as I got up from my chair and walked over to him.

"I know, things have just been so busy..." I replied as I cupped my belly.

He put his arms around my waist. "What are you craving?" I smirked. "Bean wants tender greens." I said with a giggle.

"She's got great taste. C'mon let's go get ready." He said taking my hand and dragging me up the stairs.

~

Me and Colby made our way to Tender Greens, our laughter mingling with the city's bustling sounds. We shared a look of anticipation; this was our spot, second only to the occasional Chipotle run.

My floral corset top fluttered slightly in the breeze, a perfect match to my carefree maternity jeans. Colby's vintage tee added a cool edge to his look, complemented by his black ripped jeans. We were the epitome of effortless style.

Upon arrival, Colby, ever the gentleman, pulled out a chair for me with a playful bow. "Madam," he grinned, and I giggled, taking a seat.

"Thank you, kind sir," I responded, my eyes crinkling with mirth.

A waiter approached, pad in hand, ready to take our order. "What can I get for you today?" he asked with a warm smile.

I glanced at the menu, though I knew it by heart. "I'll have the Caesar salad with grilled salmon as well as some extra croutons and 3 hard boiled eggs?"

"Of course," the waiter nodded, scribbling down my request.

Colby looked up, his decision made. "And I'll go with the steak and crispy asparagus. Medium rare, please."