By The Contract

05. Shadows of Yesterday

Five years ago

Kat beamed with smiles as they walked hand in hand. It was a date with Levi and she couldn't wait to give him the bracelet she had stayed up all night to weave.

The clear blue sky was designed with clouds, making it look as if it was a painting. Levi's free hand locked with hers as they walked towards a shade.

“What?” Kat asked, her cheeks flushing red and heart fluttering as he looked at her.

“Why do you look so beautiful?” he pulled her cheek gently.

“I don't know, maybe it's because I'm the most beautiful in the world.” Kat put her hands behind her back, swaying her body back and forth.

Levi Grey. The one that captured her heart.

How they met was funny. She was a new graduate and working as an intern in HaloTech, a top rated tech company.

“Hi,” She waved. “Is that seat taken?”

“Hi!” He smiled, his fine dentition accentuating the beauty of his face. “Not at all.”

Kat smiled back and went in to sit by the window seat. She hadn't been interested in going on the trip as it was the same old thing every time there were new interns.

Rosa had forced her to go. Not that she couldn't say no, but Rosa was so good at persuading that you would almost feel guilty for not going with her.

Plugging her earphones to block out the noise, Kat dived her attention into the novel in her hand.

“You know Brennan didn't die, did you?” He says simply, his voice cutting through her focus as he peeked into her book.

Kat removed her earphones and stared at him in horror. Of all the things she hated, spoilers had to be the number three, after people who cut you in line and those that chew loudly.

“You–”

“Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you were far gone…” his expression softened.

As much as she wanted to get angry, his face made it hard to.

“No I’m not. I’m barely halfway through.” she said, trying to hide her frustration

“I can borrow you the rest of the series.” he offered and folded his arms. “If you want.” He added.

“Are you for real?” Kat asked in enthusiasm. “I had to wait forever to get this one.”

“I'm Levi, by the way.” He said, offering a handshake.

“Kathleen.” She accepted his handshake.

Kat bubbled with smiles as they sat under the shade. A lot had changed since that day and she was glad to be spending each day with him.

“There's something I'd like to tell you.” Levi started, his expression growing serious.

The firmness in his voice made her heart skip a beat “What is it?” she asked, tilting her head.

He hesitated, his eyes searching hers, as if weighing the words he was about to say. “I'll tell you tomorrow. Meet me by the bridge by seven.”

“What's wrong?” Kat asked, worry laced in her voice.

“It's a surprise.” Levi gave her a small, reassuring smile and kissed her forehead.

As he pulled back, she caught his gaze, trying to read the unspoken words behind those familiar eyes. “Levi,” she whispered, her hand reaching for his, “you know I hate surprises.”