If Only (GxG)

Chapter 8 Closer

A/N
🎶Taste by Sabrina Carpenter🎶

『 °*• ❀ •*°』
Alison's POV

"Oh my god, this is where you live?"

Blake barely glanced at me as she set her keys down on a sleek marble console. "Yes. I also have a house outside London."

I stepped further into the penthouse, my eyes widening as I took it all in. The space was nothing short of stunning—elegant but warm, crisp yet undeniably feminine.

Floor-to-ceiling windows stretched across one wall, showcasing a breathtaking view of the city bathed in the golden glow of the evening. Soft lighting illuminated the open-plan living area, casting a cozy ambiance over the carefully curated furniture. It was exactly the kind of place I'd always dreamed of living in.

"Aghhh," I groaned, running a hand through my hair. "I'm not even going to ask what your side hustle is. I feel like I might risk jail time as a co-conspirator."

Blake scoffed, rolling her eyes.

I grinned. "You have a beautiful home."

She hesitated, as if caught off guard, before giving me a small, almost confused nod. "Thank you..."

I arched a brow. "What?"

She shifted slightly, crossing her arms. "I just... it's nice to have you here. I strangely enjoy your company."

I let out a sarcastic laugh. "Oh wow. That sounded like it really hurt to admit."

She gave me an exasperated look, but I was already turning away, soaking in every detail of the apartment. "You decorated it really well," I mused, brushing my fingers over a plush throw on the couch. "I love it."

Before she could respond, the quiet was interrupted by the sound of tiny paws clicking against the hardwood floor. A small brown dog trotted in from the hallway, ears perked up as he made a beeline for Blake.

"Hi, baby," she cooed, immediately scooping him up into her arms. The hardened, intimidating woman I knew was suddenly replaced by someone utterly and unapologetically soft. "Did you have a good sleep, baby?" she murmured, nuzzling into his fur as he wriggled happily.

I stared at her, blinking. "Maybe I'm having a stroke."

She shot me a glare over the dog's head before setting him down gently. "My baby, Rodger, is different. He deserves the world."

Rodger sniffed at my leg before licking my pants in greeting. I had to admit, he was pretty cute. "Hey, little man. You're pretty cute."

Satisfied with my approval, he trotted off, picking up a chew toy before flopping onto the floor.

Before I could fully appreciate the adorable scene, a wave of dizziness suddenly washed over me. My vision blurred at the edges, my balance wavering as I reached out instinctively for something—anything—to steady myself.

Blake was faster.

Her hand shot out, firm and sure, gripping my forearm to keep me upright. She moved close, concern flashing across her face as she pressed the back of her hand to my forehead.