Between Duty and Desire

Chapter 3

I have absolutely no motivation to write this chapter right now because Kamala won't be a part of it. But I'll keep it short, my focus for today is on the fourth chapter.

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Bee and I walked through the busy streets of Washington, the nightlife pulsing around us. Laughter, traffic noise and music shimmered through the air. Everything seemed to blend into a colorful, happy whirlwind - exactly what I needed after that day.

"My apartment is just around the corner, you can leave your things there and then the fun begins!" Bee called as he led me through the crowds.

And indeed, after a few minutes' walk we reached a multi-story, red brick house. Surrounded by other houses, in the middle of the big city, it seemed like a safe place that had a calming effect despite its surroundings.

Bee unlocked the door and led us to the third floor, where his apartment was. When I entered, the familiar smell of his perfume immediately enveloped me. Colorful posters hung on the walls, everything was decorated down to the smallest detail with small photos, plants, records and colorful sculptures. His apartment reflected his character perfectly. "You do pottery?" I asked and took a closer look at one of the sculptures. It was a small bird, the individual feathers shimmered in different shades of red. He came up next to me. "Yep, I started about half a year ago. It's a really great activity, it distracts you and takes your mind off things. I can highly recommend it. Do you like the sculptures?" he replied. "I think they're great! Really, you're really talented," I said delightedly. He blushed slightly and turned around. "Thanks. I haven't shown them to many people yet. So, just throw your stuff in the living room and let's go! I know a really great Italian restaurant here, we absolutely have to go there!" his voice rang out from the kitchen.

I did as I was told and we set off together."So, Bee, tell me. Who are you? Where are you from? Why are you here now? I want to know everything," I said happily. He laughed at my questions. "Is this an interrogation? If you're secretly from the FBI, I'm afraid I have to disappoint you. No crime here." I giggled. "Don't worry, I'm just curious." He took a deep breath. "Well, I was born and raised in Dallas. Not a particularly nice childhood, I must say." I sucked in a sharp breath. "Dallas, huh? Do your parents fit the... stereotypes?" "Unfortunately, a Republican dream couple. My mother never worked, my father ran a bank." He rolled his eyes and sighed. "You can imagine their reaction to... well, me. After I graduated, I broke off contact and came here. Best decision of my life, by the way." A hint of pride flickered in his eyes. I patted his arm. "I'm sorry your parents are idiots. Anyway, I'm pretty glad you're here now. Without you, I probably wouldn't have even survived the first week." He smiled warmly at me. "Thank you, really."

We walked a few more meters and finally stood in front of the restaurant. Bee held the door open for me and announced "Welcome to heaven!" Laughing, I entered. I quickly realized that he was right. It was heaven. The atmosphere was inviting, the people around us were laughing and enjoying their food. We were also having fun, talking about everything and eagerly awaiting our food. When I tried the first fork of my spaghetti, I had to close my eyes for a moment. The taste filled my mouth, hot and spicy. It really was the best meal I've ever had. The meatballs had the same effect, it was really perfect.

A few hours later we went back to his apartment, tired and stuffed but happy. I quickly grabbed my things, I had to go home, it was almost midnight. I stopped at the door to say goodbye. I grinned at him. "Thank you for showing me all this, I really had fun with you. Let's do it again soon." He returned my grin. "I'd love to. You can be very funny when you're not in the office. See you tomorrow, then!"

I gave him an insulted slap on the arm before turning around. "Just be careful, soon I won't take your insults so lightly. See you tomorrow!"

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Finally done. Btw, Bee is inspired by a close friend of mine, I'm not trying to promote any prejudices! Hope you like this chapter :)

Loveeee, O.