The Velvet Den

Chapter 6

The night air was cool and crisp, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and moss as I stepped out of the bar, locking the heavy door behind me with a satisfying click. The chatter of the evening had faded into silence, leaving only the rhythmic chirping of crickets and the occasional rustle of leaves. My feet moved instinctively along the soft, moss-covered trail that led to my place, the path dimly lit by the pale glow of the moon filtering through the canopy above. The world felt peaceful, the quiet wrapping around me like a familiar blanket.

I let out a long sigh, rolling my shoulders to release the tension of the evening. Serving drinks, flirting with patrons, keeping the energy alive—it all took its toll. The trail felt like a sanctuary, each step drawing me closer to the comfort of home.

Then I heard it—a faint sound behind me, a subtle crunch of footsteps against the mossy ground. My heart jumped, and I froze mid-step, the hairs on the back of my neck prickling. Turning quickly, I squinted into the shadows, my pulse thundering in my ears. A tall, dark figure emerged, moving toward me with deliberate steps. My breath caught, panic gripping me as I instinctively prepared to run.

Before I could move, a large hand reached out and caught my arm, firm but not painful. “Aria, it’s okay,” a deep, familiar voice rumbled.

“Bryn?!” I gasped, my heart still racing as I tried to process his presence. My glare was sharp, a mix of relief and frustration. “The hell, you scared me!”

His expression softened, his dark eyes filled with quiet concern. “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice low and soothing. “I wanted to walk you home. Is that okay?”

I hesitated, the tension in my body easing as his words sank in. He let go of my arm, his hand lingering for a moment before he stepped back and extended it toward me. His hand was enormous, rough and warm, a contrast to my smaller, softer one. Slowly, I placed my hand in his, the size difference startling. His grip was gentle, yet it exuded a strength that felt reassuring.

“Sure,” I said finally, my voice softer than I intended. Together, we began walking down the trail, the silence between us heavy but not uncomfortable. The rhythmic crunch of our footsteps filled the air, the cool night breeze brushing against my skin.

After a while, Bryn cleared his throat, breaking the quiet. “I’d like to apologize,” he said, his voice deep and sincere. “For earlier. I didn’t mean to offend you.”

I glanced up at him, surprised by the vulnerability in his tone. “No, it’s okay,” I said, a small laugh escaping me. “It was brought to my attention that maybe I overreacted a bit.”

His lips curved into a faint smile, and he nodded. “I do want to spend time with you,” he said, his dark eyes meeting mine for a brief moment before darting away.

His words were careful, measured, as though he was afraid of saying too much. I nodded, understanding more than I let on. “I get it,” I said, my voice soft. The corners of my lips twitched into a small smile as I looked up at him.

The exhaustion of the day began to creep in, and I yawned, stretching my arms overhead. Bryn glanced down at me, his brows furrowing slightly. “Are you tired?” he asked, his tone laced with concern.

“Yes,” I admitted, letting out a soft sigh. “It was a long night.”

He hesitated for a moment before speaking again. “I could… carry you,” he offered, his voice careful, as if testing the waters.

I blinked up at him, surprised by the suggestion. “Carry me?” I echoed, a faint laugh in my tone.

“Yes,” he said simply, his expression serious but kind. After a moment’s pause, I nodded. “Yes, please.”