And Then, The World Ended

Chapter 2 Hayes

I push open the front door of my new townhouse, a mix of excitement and unease coursing through me. The place feels both thrilling and alien, the pristine white walls echoing the sound of my footsteps as I enter. It's an investment—a million-dollar property that is still making rethink my life choices, when I consider my bank balance, despite the fact that I have more zeros than I can count.

"Home sweet home," I murmur under my breath, setting my keys on the kitchen counter.

The space is open and airy, moonlight pouring in through tall windows, bathing every corner in light. The furniture hasn't arrived yet—just a haphazard pile of boxes in one corner—but it's mine. My father always envisioned me taking over the family business, running it as he did. But that dream dissolved with his passing last year.

I run my hand along the sleek glass countertop, feeling a complex blend of pride and guilt wash over me. Nobody knows about the inheritance I received—not even Lily. She thinks I'm just a regular guy trying to make it in New York, unaware of the truth behind this extravagant lifestyle.

I take a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to shake off the familiar weight on my shoulders. My dad always said wealth brings responsibility, but right now, all I want is to carve out my own identity here—one that's not tied to his legacy.

A photo of him sits on my phone's wallpaper—a constant reminder of everything he wanted for me and everything I've run from since he left this world.

Just then, my phone buzzes on the counter—Lily checking in again. Her sweet and supportive voice reverberates in my mind; she's unaware of the truth behind this opulent lifestyle we're suddenly thrust into.

I type back quickly: "Just got home! Can't wait to show you around once everything's set up."

The seconds stretch as I stare at the empty living room once more. This townhouse isn't just a place; it's a statement—a chance for me to redefine what success means outside of family expectations.

With each tick of silence filling the space around me, doubt creeps back in: Am I truly ready for this?

I sit on the edge of Noah's bed, my eyes fixed on him as he sketches the skyline. He's completely absorbed, his brow furrowed in concentration, and the soft morning light illuminates his face. There's something about seeing him like this—so passionate and focused—that captivates me.

I feel a twinge of something unfamiliar as I watch him. It's like there's a pull between us, an unspoken connection that I can't quite explain. Maybe it's the way he gets so lost in his art or how he notices the little details that make New York District unique. Whatever it is, I can't seem to look away.

"You coming, Liam?" Sophie calls from the doorway, interrupting my thoughts. I snap out of my reverie, realizing I've been staring.

"Yeah, let's go," I respond, "You guys can call me Hayes, you know?" standing up and running a hand through my hair. I hesitate for a moment, feeling a bit uneasy, but then follow them out.

As we walk through the bustling streets of New York District, I can't help but feel a buzz in the air. It's a beautiful day, the sun shining brightly, and the city feels full of possibility. I find myself matching my pace with Noah's, our arms brushing occasionally, sending a spark through me.

We step into a cozy café, the rich aroma of coffee surrounds us. Noah leads us to a table by the window, his eyes lighting up as he takes in the view. I feel a nudge to sit next to him; I do so, feeling a connection as our shoulders touch gently.

For a moment, we sit in comfortable silence, each lost in our thoughts as we look out at the tech obsessed city. I feel a sense of calm in the chaos, Noah's presence grounding me.

Sophie interrupts, breaking the spell, "Noah, you've been quiet. Everything alright?"

Noah starts, as if waking from a trance, "Yeah, sorry. Just a lot on my mind, I guess." I feel a twinge of concern, wanting to know what's running through his head.

I shift in my seat, feeling unsettled as I realize I want to know more. This feeling is unfamiliar territory—and I'm not sure what to make of it.

The robot waitress arrives, sparing me having to answer. Orders are placed, and I'm relieved the attention diverts to her, giving me time to reflect on this turn of events.

"You okay?" Noah asks, turning to me with a concerned look, our knees brushing under the table.

I nod, flashing a reassuring smile. "Yeah, just taking it all in. New York's got a lot of charm."

As I say it, I realize it's not just the city that's got my head spinning.

Walking into the office, I spot Noah hunched over a desk, completely engrossed in his work. I feel a smile tugging at my lips; he's always so focused, so passionate.

"Noah," I call out, my voice echoing slightly in the room. He looks up, startled.

"Hayes," he greets me, pushing his glasses up his nose and giving me a small smile. "Didn't see you there."

"What are you doing here?" I ask, leaning against his desk.

He hesitates before answering, "Actually...I am here for an interview."

My eyebrows shoot up in surprise. "For a position here?"

He nods, looking hopeful yet anxious. I feel a sudden surge of protectiveness; Noah is incredibly talented and he deserves this opportunity.

"Wait here," I tell him, already moving towards the HR office.

In the office, I plead Noah's case passionately. "He's incredibly talented and dedicated," I tell them. "His energy and creativity are exactly what this company needs."

Leaving the HR office, I feel a sense of satisfaction. Whether or not my words will make a difference remains to be seen but at least I tried.

Noah is waiting for me when I return. He's pacing nervously, chewing on his lower lip. As soon as he spots me, he stops.

"How'd it go?" He asks anxiously.

"I think they're open to considering you," I reply honestly.

He exhales deeply, relief washing over him. "Thanks, Hayes."

We leave the office together later in the day, walking side by side as we discuss his interview. He's hopeful but understandably nervous and I can't help but want to reassure him.

Back at home later that night, my mind keeps circling back to Noah. There's an ease between us that feels natural and comfortable. As our friendship deepens, so does my curiosity about him.

I contemplate inviting him over. It's a casual gesture, something friends do all the time. But with Noah, everything feels different, charged with an undercurrent I can't quite identify. I feel the weight of the decision, aware that it might change the dynamics between us.

In the end, I decide to sleep on it. Tomorrow is another day, another opportunity to navigate this new territory. For now, I just need some rest and time to process everything. The last thing I want is to rush things and mess up what's slowly building between us.