CHAPTER 16

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A few days later, as I strolled towards my part-time employment, a cascade of memories from my tumultuous upbringing enveloped me. The shadows of my father's incarceration, his ensuing struggles with addiction and violence, and my mother's steadfast devotion amidst the chaos weighed heavily on my heart. Yet, Aaron's unwavering love and support shone brightly, illuminating the path to my own happiness.

His voice, a soothing melody over the phone, brought forth the joy we cherished together. "Hey Cupcake, what are you up to?" he inquired, his tone rich and inviting. A smile graced my lips, a delightful flutter igniting within me. "Not much, darling, just on my way to work."

His demeanor shifted, concern etching his features. "Cupcake,how many times must I remind you that you don’t need to work? Just ask me for money; I’ll gladly provide." I appreciated his care, yet my desire for independence remained steadfast. "No, Aaron, I’m simply assisting my mother."

He sighed, his voice softening with understanding. "I know you’re a devoted daughter, love... But don’t shoulder too much. I’m always here for you." I chuckled, playfully teasing him. "Alright, darling, I’ll let you know when I need something... Does that work for you?"

His smile radiated warmth, his voice laced with affection. "That works perfectly, my love." After our conversation, I arrived at work, only to hear a familiar voice placing an order—Aaron's. My surprise was palpable, and he laughed at my astonishment.

"Aaron, what brings you here?" I asked, striving to regain my composure. He flashed a mischievous grin. "Just wanted to see you, baby." I rolled my eyes, unable to suppress my smile. "We just spoke an hour ago..."

He pulled me onto his lap, his hand gently covering my mouth, silencing my protests. "Shh... darling, just be with me for a moment." Anxiety about my job flickered in my mind, but he reassured me, his lips brushing against mine. "No one would dare fire my love; don’t worry, I’ll have a word with your manager... Is that alright?"

My heart raced as the warmth of his touch ignited a thousand butterflies in my stomach. Aaron always had a way of making the world around us fade into the background. The chaotic din of the restaurant, with its sizzling pans and clattering dishes, blurred into a distant hum, overshadowed by the electricity crackling between us.

I hesitated briefly, then nodded, surrendering to the enchantment of the moment. We sat entwined, cherishing our stolen time together. The world around us faded, leaving only the two of us.

Really, Aaron,” I said, my voice barely a whisper against the fabric of his shirt. “You can’t just show up like this, especially not at work.” My heart was torn between the exhilaration of his presence and the nagging fear of the consequences that could follow.

He chuckled softly, his fingers brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “But seeing you brings me so much joy, Cupcake. Can you blame me?” The way he said my name—a mix of endearment and playful challenges—made it difficult to resist his charm.

I suppose you have a point,” I conceded, unable to suppress the smile that spread across my face. It was true; the moments with him were always a bright spot in the chaos of my life. Still, I couldn’t shake the apprehension gnawing at my thoughts. “I just don’t want to get in trouble. You know how tightly wound this place can be.”

Aaron’s expression softened, and he drew me in closer, his breath warm against my ear. “Trust me,” he murmured. “I’ll handle it. You just need to focus on what you do best.” He lifted my chin so I could meet his gaze, his deep brown eyes radiating a mix of mischief and tenderness. “And right now, what you do best is being with me.”

At that moment, all my worries seemed to evaporate like morning dew under the sun. I melted into him, the chaos of my life muffled by the sheer joy of his presence. “Okay, okay,” I relented, my heart surrendering to the moment. “But I can’t stay here too long.

Deal,” Aaron said, sealing it with a kiss that sent shivers of delight coursing through me. The kiss was fleeting, but it resonated in my chest, igniting a sense of belonging that I had yearned for amidst the upheaval of my childhood.

To be continued...

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