HIS WILDFIRE

Cracking Hard Stones

I stood under the white oak tree, on the phone with Jaime. He had called from a different number, explaining that it was all for my safety.

"I'll have my driver pick you up at dusk. I really want to see your face... hold you... feel you," he murmured.

I stayed silent as he spoke, his voice warm yet urgent. Maybe I was overwhelmed. Maybe I just missed him too much.

"Grande," he called softly when he realized I wasn't speaking. I snapped out of my daze and glanced back at Suzzy and Leo, who were seated on the bench, watching me with curiosity.

"Okay, that's fine. Let's talk later," I finally said.
"Baby, I love you," Jaime bade.
"Don't forget to turn off your phone when you're coming," he added just before the call ended.

Leo smirked, leaning in slightly. "That was your man?" he teased.
I smiled, shaking my head.

Leo tucked a strand of his hair behind his ear. "Anyway, I need your help here," he said, shifting closer to show me some calculations he was stuck on.

I was relieved. Studying with them made everything feel less tough, and after hours of working through past papers, things finally started falling into place. With Leo and Suzzy's help, I felt confident about the exams. I had caught up on most of what I'd missed.

By sunset, they left me, knowing I was expecting the driver. I promised to text them at regular intervals to let them know I was safe.

It wasn't until nightfall that the car finally pulled up.
The driver was the same one from the chalet, and his face lit up when he saw me. "Good evening, Grandee."

"Hey," I responded , slipping into the car.

We spoke about random things throughout the journey. With my phone off, I had no distractions. It wasn't long before I dozed off.

A gentle tap on my cheek stirred me awake. I opened my eyes slowly.

"Hi, baby," Jaime murmured, his face inches from mine, his lips so close I could feel his breath against my skin.

Without much thought, I wrapped my arms around him, excitement rushing through me. I had missed him. I had missed this.

When I finally let go, he kissed me softly, lingering just a little longer than necessary, then ushered me out of the car. I waved at the driver before reaching into my bag for my phone.

I quickly texted Suzzy and Leo in our group chat, letting them know I was fine. Then, I moved on to notify Ted that I wouldn't be coming back tonight.

Jaime had his arm draped around my waist, holding me close. I could feel his gaze flicker toward my screen, his curiosity almost tangible.

I paused and turned my attention to him as we stepped inside.

"Are you hungry?" he asked.
"I really am!" I blurted.

He grinned. "Good. I had something special prepared."

Inside, the air smelled of warm spices, butter, and garlic. My stomach grumbled in response.

Jaime led me to the dining table, where a plate of steak and roasted potatoes sat waiting. Two glasses of wine had already been poured, their deep red color glistening next to the candle lights.

I took a seat, grateful for the effort. "You really went all out."
Jaime chuckled, sitting across from me. "I wanted tonight to be perfect."

We ate in comfortable silence for a while, the soft clinking of cutlery the only sound filling the space.

After a few bites, he leaned back, swirling his wine. "So, how's everything? School? Friends?"
"It's been hectic," I admitted. "But I'm managing. Leo and Suzzy have been a huge help."