The Many Faces of Edmund Fig (ManxMan)

Chapter 15: Of the real world

Please read the Authors note provided at the end of the chapter.

My eyes peered open one by one, sleep thick in the corners. I groaned wiping my eyes meticulously. Why? I glanced over at my clock and nearly growled in frustration. Who the fuck is pounding on my door at 7:45 in the morning?! I huffed rolling out of bed quite literally and shuffling over to the door.

"What?"

Curious grey orbs locked with mine.

"Did I wake you?"

I nearly jumped out of my skin and slammed the door shut. Why is Edmund at my door? I looked over in the mirror and quickly smoothed my rats nest and changed my shirt and slipped on a pair of pants. Walking back over I opened the door and found him standing there unable to determine if he was offended or amused. Probably both.

"Sorry...I don't typically let people see me in my hibernation appearance."

He laughed lightly his gaze scanning my appearance casually.

"You are definitely a sight to see in you hibernation appearance. Ahem. I came here this morning to see if you wanted to join me for breakfast so we could go over a few things and so I could show you to your new apartment."

"O-oh. Uh...give me ten minutes...just come in and sit down. "

I stumbled towards the bathroom and slammed it shut.

(Edmund's P.O.V)

Joseph had scurried off to the bathroom much like he does anytime I visit. I chuckled and sat down on the sofa my eyes roaming over his apartment. It definitely seems very...him. It was messy yet organized, dark with a hint of color and completely open and welcoming. I leant back adjusting my collar. A clutter of things fell to the floor followed by a sharp string of curses.

My brow arched curiously. Joseph emerged a few seconds later still swearing under his breath. He had attempted to comb his hair but it was still a bit unruly. He walked over to his closet and snatched a shirt of the hanger and returned back to the bathroom.

He is just like a grouchy teenage boy first thing in the morning. I crossed my legs and rested my chin on the palm of my hand. I wonder how he will adjust to working under me. I moistened my lips at the thought. It will definitely be interesting to see him keep up with me. He returned a few minutes later looking a little more refreshed and a pinch chipper.

"Sorry about that."

I stood smoothing my shirt.

"It's fine. Are you ready?"

He snatched up his wallet and keys and nodded.

"Would you prefer by car or on foot?" I asked.

"On foot. The coffee shop isn't too far from here."

I tucked my hands into my coat pocket and strolled along side him. It's peaceful when no one is up and moving quite as much. Most people are either at work or school.

(Joseph's P.O.V)

I would occasionally glance up at Edmund. He still hasn't shaved off his stubble and his hair had grown to his collar bones. It's kind of hot but very surprising. I assumed he was the kind of person that would freak out at the slightest growth of hair. I gasped as my feet collided. A firm hand held me up by my hip, cool breath ghosting over my ear.

"Be careful."

He steadied me on my feet and continued walking as if it never occurred. I quickly caught up my cheeks flaming. Why does my body always have to overreact? I inwardly sighed. I need to pay less attention to him and more attention to...