THE DESOLATE SOUTHLAND

CHAPTER 21: THE REVEAL

The sun rays piercing through the sheer curtains reflected in different directions like light through a prism. As the gentle breeze fluttered the curtains, the light flickered around the room and spun like a disco ball reflecting multiple colors on the walls. Light flashed across her eyes waking her from a peaceful slumber. Harley blinked several times adjusting her eyes to the brightness that filled the room. She ran her had over the bed reaching, wanting to touch him. But Riko wasn't there. "He is gone!" she mummered, hoping it wasn't a dream. She sat up quickly, still trying to adjust her eyes to the bright lights that wouldn't go away. "What time is it?" she wondered. She reached for her clothes. As she dressed she could smell the rich aroma of coffee brewing downstairs. Then the delicious smell of bacon. She could actually hear it popping in the skillet as it cooked. Slipping on her shirt, she peered at the clock resting on the night stand. "7:00 am," she said to herself as she made her way down stairs. She made her way to the kitchen with every intention of scolding Riko for nat waking her and cooking his breakfast while he was hurt.

"Riko, you better not...."

"Good morning, Harley," Ange and Hannah said.

Startled, Harley flinched. She looked around and asked, "Where is Riko?"

"He is outside on the porch drink his coffee," replied Hannah.

"Yeah, we caught him getting stuff out to cook. Considering his condition, you know his arm and all, we insisted that he let us cook. He didn't seem to like the idea of being waited on, but hey, he is hurt, right?" Ange added.

"Thank you."

"Least we could do."

"Hannah handed Harley a cup of coffee. "we'll let you two know when breakfast is ready."

"Thanks again."

"No problem. Now go out there and talk to him," and they giggled.

Harley just looked at them and smiled as she went out on the porch. She sipped her coffee as she sat down next to Riko.

"Good morning," he said with a smile, then took her hand and kissed it.

"Good morning, how did you sleep?" She asked concerned about him being in pain.

"Great, and you?"

"Wonderful. You were not in pain?"

"Hell no!" Then he smiled, "How could I be, you put me on cloud nine."

Harley, just smiled and her eyes twinkled with satisfaction as she remembered the night they spent together.

"Harley, about last night."

"Yeah, what about it?"

"I want you to know."

"What?"

"Well, I want you to know that I am not the type of guy to do that sort of thing and just leave. I guess what I am trying to say is, I hope it meant as much to you as it did me."

Harley looked deep in his eyes. For the first time she could see the sincerity in his soul. He would never break her heart.

She kissed him and whispered, "Trust me, it did, it really did."

"You say that now, but..."

"No buts Riko, I mean it, it meant the world to me. I have dreamt of this for a long time. Just, I was worried you didn't feel the same way."

"Harley, I have dreamed of the moment I could have you as well. But, I know you have had it rough, when it comes to relationships. I just want you to know, that, when I commit to something or someone, I see it through. I guess I am trying to say, I hope that..."