the fire between us 2

Chapter 2

The scent of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee drifts through the apartment, mingling with the warmth of the morning light spilling through the windows. Martinus and I step into the kitchen, hand in hand, to find Marcus expertly flipping pancakes while Nora is slicing strawberries with a look of determination.

"About time you two joined us," Marcus teases, not even glancing up as he swirls the pan with practiced ease. "We thought we'd have to eat this feast by ourselves."

"Feast?" Martinus raises an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at his lips as he looks at the spread of food taking over the counters—golden pancakes stacked high, crispy bacon, a bowl of freshly whipped cream, and a fruit platter. "You really went all out, huh?"

Nora grins, setting down the knife and gesturing dramatically to the table. "What can I say? When you're welcoming home two of your favorite people in the world, you have to go big."

"Favorite people?" Marcus interrupts, pretending to be offended. "Pretty sure you said I was your favorite just yesterday."

"Don't ruin the moment," she shoots back with a laugh, nudging him lightly with her elbow before turning to us. "Now, sit. You two need to be spoiled this morning."

Martinus and I exchange a look, both of us grinning as we take seats at the table. The cozy dining nook is already set, with mismatched mugs and plates that feel perfectly us. Marcus carries over the plate of pancakes, adding them to the growing collection of dishes, and sits down beside Nora, finally letting out a content sigh.

As we begin to eat, the conversation flows easily, punctuated by laughter and teasing. Marcus recounts a hilarious mishap during one of their recent travels, earning groans and giggles alike, while Nora excitedly shares updates about her new projects.

"So," I begin, setting down my fork and glancing around the table, "I had an idea last night."

Martinus immediately perks up beside me, his attention shifting entirely to me. "An idea?"

I nod, a small smile tugging at my lips as I glance between him, Marcus, and Nora. "I was thinking we could throw a coming-home party. Something casual but fun, with all our friends. It's been forever since we've all been together, and this feels like the perfect excuse."

"Yes!" Nora exclaims, practically bouncing in her seat. "That's such a great idea. Everyone's been dying to see you two again."

Marcus nods in agreement, though his expression turns mischievous. "As long as Martinus doesn't disappear halfway through the party to monopolize Y/N, I'm in."

"Jealous, much?" Martinus quips, though the light blush dusting his cheeks gives him away.

"Jealous? Of you two?" Marcus laughs, shaking his head. "Please. I just know how you get when Y/N's around."

"How I get?" Martinus raises an eyebrow, feigning innocence.

"Like she's the only person in the world," Marcus replies smoothly, earning a chorus of laughter around the table.

I lean into Martinus's side, my own cheeks warm but heart full. "Well, I don't mind," I say softly, and his gaze softens as he looks at me, his hand finding mine beneath the table.

"Okay, back to the party," Nora interjects, pulling us back to the moment. "What's the plan? Are we doing it here? At Marcus and my place? Or should we rent somewhere fancy?"

"Here," Martinus says firmly, glancing around the apartment with a proud smile. "This place feels like home now, and I think it'd be perfect. We can decorate, maybe set up the balcony with lights and a few heaters so people can enjoy the view. Keep it cozy."