Because of the Accident (Book 1)

Chapter 18

I woke up to the cheerful chirping of birds outside, their lively songs filling the room with a sense of warmth and possibility. Bright sunshine poured through the window, casting a golden glow over everything, wrapping me in its warmth like a soft, comforting blanket. It was a welcome contrast to the chill that often lingered in the early morning air, making this moment feel all the more special.

As I shifted slightly, I realized my arms were wrapped securely around Lia's waist, her soft body pressed against mine. She lay there, eyes closed in peaceful slumber, a serene smile gracing her lips. I couldn't help but admire her, taking in the way her features softened in the early light. Her lips curved into a gentle, happy smile, as if she were lost in dreams filled with joy. Her light brown fro, wild and frizzy, spread across the pillow like a halo, framing her face in a way that made her look even more beautiful.

I reached out, letting my fingers glide through her soft curls, feeling the springy texture beneath my touch. I twirled a few strands around my fingers, savoring the moment of peace that enveloped us. Just as I was getting lost in this blissful reverie, she stirred, her eyelids fluttering open against the bright light. When our eyes finally met, I couldn't help but smile—a warmth blossoming in my chest as she returned the gesture, her eyes sparkling with a delightful mix of sleepiness and happiness.

"Hey," she beamed, her voice still thick with sleep, yet full of a warmth that made my heart skip a beat.

"Hey you." I chuckled softly, letting my eyes linger on her hazel ones, which seemed to glimmer with unspoken emotions. I gave a teasing grin, trying to brighten the mood, "So... last night happened."

She laughed quietly, a deep, content sound that made my chest tighten with affection. "Yeah, it really did." Her smile widened, and she wrapped her arms around me tighter, almost as if she was scared I might vanish. "I'm happy it happened," she added, her voice soft but genuine. She nuzzled her face into my chest, her warmth seeping into me, making me feel grounded. I leaned down and kissed her forehead gently, feeling the natural ease of the gesture, like something I'd done a hundred times before and would never tire of.

For a moment, I considered staying there, letting time slip away while we stayed cocooned in the softness of the morning. But I eventually sat up, knowing I had to get moving. As I pulled on my clothes, Lia shifted beside me, starting to sit up as well.

"Whoa, whoa, no way," I said, raising a hand to gently push her back down. "You stay in bed. You're at Floyd's Happy Home, and your stay must include breakfast in bed, no exceptions." I gave her a wink as I tugged my pants on, pretending to be serious.

She flopped dramatically back onto the bed, her hair splayed out like a crown of curls as she turned her head to smile at me. "But I want you to stay here with me instead," she pouted, her lips forming the most playful of frowns.

I rolled my eyes, though I couldn't stop the grin that was spreading across my face. "As much as I'd love to lounge in bed with you all day, Miss, I've got to make you breakfast. Gotta start this morning off right." I puffed my chest out, pretending to act like some dignified butler.

She cringed dramatically, making a face like I'd just said something gross. "Ugh, don't call me Miss," she groaned, grabbing a pillow and launching it at me.

I caught it mid-air, flashing her a mischievous smirk. Without missing a beat, I tossed it back, aiming for her face. It hit her square on, and she let out a playful yelp, flopping over as if I'd knocked her out.

I doubled over in laughter, the sound filling the room. "I'm the best at pillow warfare," I said, crossing my arms like I'd just won a championship.

"You're the worst," she shot back, sitting up and throwing the pillow in front of her. Her frown was exaggerated, but I could see the laughter dancing in her eyes. "You're terrible. Just... go make breakfast."