It's officially been a week since I moved into and adjusted to my medium sized apartment. There’s more furniture coming soon, but I’m not stressed because everything I ordered is light enough for me to move. I made sure of that. Sam and I had such a hectic three days of work that we eventually had to ask Laurel for help. She’s not one to keep herself busy, but luckily she made an exception for us when we really needed it. “That was a lot to deal with, Cari. How did you manage that?”
“I was hurting, how else did you imagine I managed?” I responded to Laurel before taking a sip of the hot chocolate she had made for me. The two of us are sitting outside in my backyard, enjoying our morning coffee and chocolate drink. Sam remains fast asleep on my brand new couch, looking quite comfortable earlier.
“That wasn't fair to you, considering everything you've faced. I would have spoken up if I had been there.” It's clear that we're having a hushed conversation about Sam's parents to avoid Sam walking in on us. “Honestly, if Sam hadn't defended you, I would be extremely angry with him and wouldn't want to talk to him again.”
I wonder sometimes, what if Sam hadn't stood up for me against his mother? What if he had just let his mom speak to me that way? I'd be devastated and would cut him out of my life completely. I recognize toxicity when I see it, and I wouldn't want that to come between Sam and me. “Just forget about it.”
“That would typically upset you.” Laurel's right, I would. Actually, I haven't slept well for the past two days since his parents visited. I couldn't stop thinking about them, his mom's words kept echoing in my mind preventing me from sleeping. It was a complete letdown, I thought I'd sleep better in my first-ever apartment.
“I still feel that way, but how does it help me?”
“You're absolutely crushing it, Cari.” She flashed me a grin and winked.
“You started the tea party without me, I feel hurt.” Both of us were startled by the sound of Sam's voice coming toward the table. He leaned in to kiss me on the lips and then took a seat in the other chair with us. His hair has that charmingly tousled vibe that screams he just woke up, yet it suits him perfectly. His early morning voice sends delightful shivers down my spine and I can’t get enough of it, his lips curve into a smile every morning as he gazes directly into my eyes, making me feel like I’m his first thought of the day. Each moment is as fresh as our very first encounter. Oh, his smile again, though perhaps a bit sleepy, is one of the most captivating aspects of his morning visage. It starts slowly, a gentle curve of his lips that grows into a full-fledged grin as he realizes he’s not alone. He’s not just a handsome face, he’s a person who allows me to see him at his most authentic. Perhaps just observing his perfect face is enough for the moment.
“Hey, how was your sleep last night?” I offered him a faint smile and sipped my drink.
“Ohh,” He responded with a relaxed groan and leaned back in the chair, looking completely at ease. “The couch, Cari. It's absolutely perfect.” He's talking about the couch I bought online two weeks ago.
“I need to get a couch like that too. Hey Sam, I could sell you my old couch.” Laurel said with an excited look.
“No offense, Laurel, but my couch is way better than yours.” I don't get why they're bringing up couches all of a sudden. Honestly, I was surprised by how comfortable the couch is when I only chose it for its adorable brown hue. I'm open to all kinds of colors now, I don't even mind if they clash with my style. Cute things are just cute.
“Whatever, Sam.” Laurel fixed him with an annoyed gaze. She rose from her chair and took her empty mug with her. “Austin's coming over to pick me up. Our sleepover's done for now, Cari.” Since we needed her help with other tasks, she had no choice but to stay here for the past two days. She took care of gathering materials from various stores with Sam's vehicle, while Sam managed the photos and all the editing. I was in charge of communicating with people through messages or video meetings, ensuring we understood their requirements.
