Fate's Unwritten Path

Chapter Eight

Sasha's POV:

I woke up feeling like I'd been hit by a freight train. The remnants of last night's revelry hung over me like a shroud of regret and dizziness. My head pounded with every beat of my heart, and the room spun when I tried to open my eyes. The only thing I was wearing was my red lace underwear and a large white T-shirt that had seen better days.

"Ugh, why did I think this was a good idea?" I groaned, burying my face in the pillow. 

The events of last night felt like a blur, a hazy mix of music, drinks, and dancing. I had a vague memory of grinding against some guy and my friends cheering me on, but beyond that, it was all a fog.

I lay there for what felt like an eternity, the comfort of the bed and the softness of the pillows too tempting to leave. But then, Scooby's insistent barking started up. He was hungry, and his patience was wearing thin.

"Alright, alright," I muttered, dragging myself out of bed. My head protested with every movement, but I forced myself to stumble into the kitchen. Scooby's bowl was empty, and he was making sure I knew it.

I fumbled with the can opener, trying to open Scooby's food while swaying slightly on my feet. After finally getting it open, I scooped his food into his bowl, letting him start eating while I grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge.

"Good boy, Scooby," I said, patting his head as he chowed down. I downed a large gulp of water and popped two Advils, hoping they would ease the pounding in my skull.

I moved to the stove, deciding I needed something more substantial than just Advils and water. I cracked a few eggs into a bowl, whisking them together before pouring them into a hot pan. I added cheese and a few herbs I found in the fridge, cooking myself a simple omelet.

As I ate, I glanced around the kitchen. The mess from last night was everywhere. Clothes were strewn about, dishes were piled up, and Scooby had made a mess of his food. I sighed, finishing my breakfast quickly, and set to work cleaning.

I started by vacuuming the living room, the steady hum of the vacuum cleaner almost soothing amidst the chaos in my head. Next, I tackled Scooby's mess, cleaning up the spilled food and giving the area a thorough scrub. The dishes were up next. I washed them carefully, trying not to splash too much and disturb my already sensitive head.

The bathroom was in dire need of attention, too. I scrubbed the sink, wiped down the counter, and cleaned the toilet. Finally, I picked up the scattered clothes, sorted them into a laundry basket, and got a load started.

By the time I was finished, I felt like a semblance of normalcy had been restored. I started preparing dinner—chicken, salad, and French fries. I was just finishing up when my phone buzzed with a new message.

I wiped my hands on a dish towel and picked up the phone. It was Lucas.

**Lucas Carter:** Meet me at this address tomorrow morning. We need to discuss some things.

He sent me an address for a coffee shop I wasn't familiar with. I frowned, curiosity piqued. What could he possibly want to discuss now? My stomach twisted slightly at the thought of having to face him again but I pushed the feeling aside. I typed back quickly.

**Sasha:** I'll be there.

I hit send and then sighed, feeling a bit better now that the day's chores were done. I set the table for dinner and poured myself a glass of wine, hoping it would help me unwind after the chaotic week.

Once dinner was ready, I sank into the couch, Scooby at my feet. I flicked on the TV and put on "Instant Family," a movie I'd seen a few times but never got tired of. The light-hearted film was a welcome distraction, and I found myself smiling at the heartwarming scenes.

Scooby nuzzled against me as I took a bite of my meal, the comfort of his presence and the relaxing movie providing a balm for my frazzled nerves. I allowed myself to enjoy the simple pleasure of a quiet evening at home, the events of the past few days fading into the background as I focused on the warmth of Scooby's companionship and the gentle glow of the TV.

As the movie played on, I leaned back against the couch, letting the stress of the day melt away. Tomorrow would bring its own set of challenges, but for now, I was content to be at home with my loyal friend, watching a movie and savoring the last bit of peace before the next chapter of my life unfolded.