Hear Me

6

6

I put a plate of dinner down in front of Hudson before sliding into my own seat. My eyes quickly glanced at the flower vase in the centre of the table.

Scraping my food onto my fork, I said hesitantly, "Thank you for the flowers."

He gave me a tight-lipped smile. "I'll admit I don't totally understand your infatuation. But I thought you would like them anyway."

A small fuzzy ball of warmth nestled itself in my stomach. He thought it would make me happy. A small smile formed on my face.

"They're beautiful," I said softly.

A few moments of silence passed as we ate. This food isn't as bad, the more you eat it. Guess it's just one of those things you end up getting used to.

"How's work going?" I asked, breaking the quietness.

He shrugged. "Very much the usual, I suppose."

His eyes darted up to mine briefly.

"Do you," he started before his voice trailed off. He switched his gaze to the vase.

"Know much about how to take care of flowers?"

It was my turn to shrug.

"I haven't ever, but I'll learn."

He gave me a nod before continuing to eat.

After my hunger subsided and I had discarded my bowl, Hudson offered me his arm and helped me to the lounge area. I settled myself into the softness of the chair while he hurried away to clear up the table.

"Cup of tea?" his voice murmured behind me.

Giving back a sound of agreement, I waited for him to return and sit down.

The warm liquid felt refreshing compared to the bland dinner. It sent a shot of warmth down my throat. Lowering his cup, Hudson cleared his throat and raised his gaze to meet mine.

"Do you remember much?" he asked, hesitation lingering in his voice.

My stomach sank. Without moving, I replied, "Of what?"

Instantly, he said, "Before."

My eyes dropped. My heart started to pound as I tried to focus on the drink. Ripples wiggled through it as my hands refused to steady themselves.

"No, what are you talking about?"

Even to my own ears, my voice was oozing panic.

He was silent, not moving. I sucked a breath in through my teeth before daring to raise my head.

Hudson's eyes were trained onto me. They flickered across me until finishing at my eyes.

Then, with a sigh, he rested back in his seat.

"Nevermind."

Despite having relaxed his body, his gaze remained stuck on my mine. I watched him in silence for a moment. Why is he asking me such questions? Does he not believe me? Why doesn't he believe me? Am I done for? He's going to tell someone-

His head bobbed slightly, just enough for me to notice. Was he nodding at me?

Biting my lip, I shuffled back in the chair as my stomach formed a knot. What does that mean?