the fire between us

chapter 15

The next morning, I wake up to the soft rays of sunlight streaming through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Martinus is still asleep beside me, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. His arm is draped over my waist, holding me close, and I can't help but smile at how peaceful he looks. The events of last night play in my mind like a beautiful, vivid dream, and I feel a surge of warmth at the memory.

Careful not to wake him, I gently slip out of bed and make my way to the bathroom. As I splash some water on my face, I take a moment to breathe and soak in the emotions from the night before. My heart feels lighter, and there's a sense of calm that I haven't felt in a long time. Martinus is different—there's something about him that makes everything feel so effortless, so right.

When I return to the bedroom, Martinus is awake, propped up on one elbow, his eyes still heavy with sleep but filled with a warm, affectionate glow. "Good morning," he murmurs, his voice husky and soft.

"Good morning," I reply, my smile widening as I walk over to the bed. He reaches out, pulling me back into his arms, and I go willingly, letting out a contented sigh as I settle against his chest.

We lie there for a few moments, enjoying the quiet of the morning. But eventually, the world outside beckons, and Martinus reluctantly pulls away. "I have to head out with Marcus for some training," he says, brushing a strand of hair from my face. "But I won't be long. We'll have plenty of time for our date later."

"Sounds good," I reply, feeling a mix of anticipation and excitement for the evening ahead.

He gives me one last lingering kiss before getting up and getting dressed. As he pulls on his shirt and gathers his things, I can't help but admire how effortlessly he moves, the way he carries himself with such confidence and ease. "I'll see you later," he says with a wink as he heads for the door.

"See you later," I call after him, my heart skipping a beat as the door closes behind him.

As soon as Martinus is gone, I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. The room suddenly feels emptier without him, but there's also a buzz of excitement in the air as I start thinking about tonight. And then, it hits me—I have no idea what I'm going to wear.

Panic starts to creep in as I fling open my suitcase, rifling through the clothes I brought with me. None of them seem right for a first date, especially one with someone like Martinus. I want to look good, to feel confident, but nothing in my suitcase is giving me that feeling.

Just as I'm about to completely lose it, there's a knock on the door. It's Nora, already dressed and looking bright and cheerful, despite the late night.

"Morning!" she chirps, stepping into the room with a smile. "How are you feeling? You and Martinus had quite the night."

I feel my cheeks heat up at her knowing look, but I can't help but grin. "It was...amazing," I admit, the warmth in my voice betraying just how much it meant to me.

Nora's smile widens, but then she notices the state of my room, with clothes scattered everywhere. "Uh-oh, what's going on here?"

"I have nothing to wear for the date tonight," I groan, flopping back onto the bed in defeat. "Everything I brought is either too casual or not right for a first date."

Nora laughs, walking over to my suitcase and sifting through the clothes with a critical eye. "Don't worry, we've got this. How about we go out and find something new? Something that makes you feel amazing?"

I look up at her, grateful for her offer. "You think we have time?"

"Of course! Marcus and Martinus will be busy for a while, and we girls can take all the time we need to find the perfect outfit," Nora says confidently. "Plus, a little shopping therapy is always good."