It's only a phase, isn't it? | 18+ | +MAIN FOCUS+

Chapter 4 🌶

AUTHOR'S NOTE: (If you couldn't tell by the icon beside the Chapter number, 🌶️) As of now, this book is officially 18+. As you read, please be aware of this and proceed with caution, as viewer discretion is heavily advised! (And while you're at it, go get a tub of holy water... you'll DEFINITELY need it...)

—-

JALEN

After a night of fun singing, I was so exhausted I collapsed on my bed. As I checked the time, it was already past 10 AM. I'd slept for more than 12 hours.

"Shit!" I gasped, shooting up immediately.

I saw that Kace was still asleep beside me, still as a rock.

Annie was nowhere to be seen, though. She must've already started her day.

I looked down at him, and widened my eyes when I saw he was still in his suit. So this is how committed this guy is to his job... damn... I couldn't imagine...

I noticed as I approached him, I could hear how labored his breathing was.

I nearly forgot the poor guy had a bit of a heart condition...

He also slept without at least a light blanket. The AC really cools down this room, so I don't know why he would've done it.

Maybe him and Annie snuggled?

I didn't want to pry, but in the moment, I took one of my blankets from my bed and placed it over him, and his breathing suddenly relaxed a little bit and he sighed contently.

"You're incredibly considerate, Lady Jalen. Thank you." His voice rang, seconds later.

I nearly jumped back.

"You're awake?!" I gasped.

"I've been for five hours," he replied, looking up at me. "Annie as well, but I just wanted to stay behind and make sure you rested well."

His eyes were a bit baggy, which led me to believe he didn't sleep well, but he smiled at me nonetheless.

If he's been awake since 5 AM, that may do it.

"That's gonna be creepy to think about when I go to bed at night, but a bit flattering."

He smiled again, wider this time.

It was rare for me to see him smile so much, even though I'd just met the guy. I knew he took his job more seriously than Annie did, and he was generally more serious, but he had a sweet side, too, so it seemed.

"Well, someone looks happy." Another voice came from the hall, making Kace turn away as I looked in the hall. Annie came in, a duster in hand. "Good morning, Lady Jalen. I'm here with a bit of a report on today's plans!"

Oh, goodie, we have plans.

"They do not occur until later in the afternoon, but plans are plans."

"Okay. Well, what are they?"

"I've been instructed to keep them a surprise."

Of course.

Even she looked exhausted. She then turned to Kace with a yawn.

"I've finished the morning chores."

"Good work." He yawned as well, stretching, before the both of them bowed to me, apologizing.

"No need. You two seem exhausted."

"Must be the jet lag," Annie muttered. "The family did warn us about it."