Dusk & Dawn

Chapter 44

WARNING: Get your tissues ready. I cried writing this 

Quinn

That morning, I awoke to Lexi's excited squeals and the sound of plastic wheels rolling across the floor in the pool house. I hastily put on my dressing gown and peeked through the crack in my door.
"What's going on Lex?" I inquired, and she dashed towards me, pushing my door wide open.
"Ohmygod Quinn, Zach's parents have got the whole weekend off last notice so they're flying Zach and I interstate to see them! Isn't that exciting?" Her entire being radiated joy as she delved into the details. But in that moment, my stomach sank.
"You mean today? You're leaving today?" I managed to squeeze out the words, my voice strained. Lexi nodded, a hint of confusion in her eyes.
"You remember how I told you I had that appointment thing? That's today." I said, nervously intertwining my fingers. Lexi gasped and covered her mouth with both hands.
"Oh shit! I forgot! I'm so sorry Quinnie." She began biting her nails, mirroring my own nervousness. I shook my head gently.

"I can stay," Lexi offered, her voice filled with determination.
"I can tell Zach to postpone the flight, and we can catch the next one." She began removing the bags hanging from her shoulders, a clear indication of her seriousness.

I shook my head, weariness creeping into my smile.
"No, no, it's alright, Lexi. Please. I don't want you to change your plans. I'll figure out another way to get to my appointment. It's not a big deal."

"I'm sure Mase wouldn't mind giving you a ride," she offered hopefully.

"No, I really don't want Mason to come with me. It's okay I'll just catch a bus. In the meantime, you have fun at Zach's parents. I'm sure they'll fall in love with you like your parents did with Zach." 

I pulled Lexi's hands away from her mouth and offered her an assuring smile.

"Thanks babe. I'm actually really excited... but you missy, I don't want you taking the bus. I'll be checking if you asked Mason." she warned, pointing at my face. Despite everything on her plate, she still looked out for me. There was no doubt she would excel at motherhood. Although she mentioned checking with Mason, there was no way I would ask him for a ride. I didn't want him to think I was using him.

Mason

The sun had barely risen above the hillside as Zach and Lexi bid us farewell, heading off to the airport. Quinn and I stood there, waving them off, and I could feel the tension radiating from her. I decided to break the ice and ease her nerves.

"So, what's the plan for today?" I asked, trying to lighten the atmosphere. Quinn gave a tight smile and replied,
"Just running some errands. I'll be back before lunch, hopefully. Maybe then we can have a jam session or do something fun?" Her smile seemed forced, and I sensed her guardedness.

I knew better than to pry and push her away. We were stuck together for the weekend, and I wanted to start off on the right foot. Quinn was like a delicate bird, easily startled. To get close to her, I needed to be patient and gentle. Her body language spoke volumes—arms crossed, lip chewed, eyes darting in contemplation.

"You hungry? I'll make you breakfast and you don't even have to sleep with me." I teased, nudging her playfully. She smiled again, this time more relaxed, and shook her head as her stomach growled. That sound triggered a protective instinct within me. I stormed over, scooped her up, and threw her over my shoulder, savouring her squeal full of emotions she usually kept hidden.

"That's it, AmicaMea. I'm feeding you now, and I won't take no for an answer. You'll sit your cute butt down while I work my culinary magic," I declared, storming through the double glass doors and seating her at the breakfast bar. Quinn was beaming now, tucking her silky hair behind her ear. I wanted to see that carefree smile on her face forever. It made me believe that the word "impossible" was nothing but a mere concept. What made her beautiful to me wasn't just her appearance or what she said—it was simply who she was.