Tainted

Chapter 21

Chapter 21

The sound of birds chirping and people talking filled my ears as I walked down the street, the early spring breeze on my face, blowing my wavy blonde hair behind me. I was dressed in black skinny jeans, a long sleeved, low cut white top, a leather jacket, black Uggs and a matching beanie. I carried only my small brown handbag, while I walked towards my favourite place to relax and wind down.

I hadn't seen Dan for a couple of days. To be honest, I had been avoiding him as much as I could. It had done me good though, because I had excelled in simulation, my scores increasing rapidly every time. I got such a rush when I was in a fight; adrenaline pumping through my veins, my muscles tense and shaking, my breathing rapid and heavy.

After simulation, I wouldn't go to the training suite. I'd either go to the canteen and eat alone, order room service and then watch a film, or go out for a bit of shopping. It had been nice to have time to myself, so I was able to think about everything, without Dan distracting me.

The bell chimed as I stepped through the doors.

Starbucks had always calmed me. The faint smell of coffee and cooking, it reminded me of home; when my Grandma used to cook.

I looked up at the menu and decided to order a Caramel Frappucino. I wasn't up for coffee. As I went to get my purse, I opened my bag to see it was empty. I sighed and muttered some quiet curses as I rummaged around to double check. I was about to apologise to the cashier when I was interrupted.

"It's okay, I'll get this." A deep, smooth voice said from beside me. I turned to see a tall man, probably only a few years older than me, smiling at the cashier and paying for my drink, as well as his own. He looked at me, his green eyes gleaming, and then smiled, showing a perfect set of white teeth. His tanned skin was flawless, no faults in his complexion whatsoever. His arm lifted, showing toned muscles and many tattoos, as he ran a hand through his thick brown hair. It took a lot in me not to melt right there in the middle of Starbucks. His black t-shirt clung to his body perfectly, as well as his dark blue skinny jeans. Worn, brown, leather boots were on his feet, the jeans sat on top.

"Thankyou so much. I must've left it back at.." I paused. "at home." I laughed nervously, zipping up my bag and walking over to an empty table by the window, holding my drink. He followed and gestured to the set opposite me. "Mind if I join you?" he asked hopefully. My mind flickered to Dan, guilt threatening to take over, but I soon pushed his image away. If he could spend time with other girls, why couldn't I with guys? Anyway, he seemed sweet.

"So, you from around here?" he asked me, lifting his cup, his plump pink lips around the straw, sipping the coffee. Inside I was panicking, yet I kept up my facade and smiled warmly, thinking desperately for an answer.

"Nope, I've lived in Birmingham all my life, until about a month ago." I stirred my Frappucino with the straw. "I was transferred here to carry on with further education." I looked up at him, his green eyes watching me expectantly. His whole body was completely still, like all of his attention was on me. It was amazing, for him to be so focused on me, I almost felt pressured to meet his expectations.

"I want to be a therapist, for children." I said. It wasn't completely a lie, that is what I had wanted to do before.. well, you know.. everything else.

"Oh wow." He said, his shoulders relaxing slightly at my answer.

"What about you?" I asked him, taking another sip from my rich drink. His eyes trailed downwards at my question, now he was the one stirring his drink awkwardly.

"My Dad wants me to inherit his business.. but I'm not sure it's for me." He sighed softly, shaking his head.

"What is it?" I asked cautiously. His eyes shot up to meet mine and my breath hitched in my throat. I hadn't realised how close we had become. I sat back, as did he.

"He's in.. waste management.. and.. production, as well as.. distribution." He said, smiling suddenly, clearly satisfied with his quick answer. He reminded me of a child, so expressive, wearing their heart on their sleeve. It was adorable.

I couldn't help but feel his answer had a second meaning, yet I didn't question it, it wasn't my place to. I simply nodded as a reply.

He smiled at me warmly and then his eyes flickered with recognition and he opened his mouth to speak.

"Oh I'm so sorry." He chuckled at me, leaning forward so he was resting on his elbows. "I don't think I introduced myself. My names Romero. Romero Rodriquez."

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