OneShots♡ (Bradga)

Rain

The studio was alive with the usual buzz of energy, the kind that filled the air with a mix of excitement and creativity. Stefani leaned against the grand piano, her fingers absentmindedly tapping the polished surface. She watched Bradley as he sat at the keys, his brow furrowed in deep concentration. His fingers hovered over the keys, yet no sound came forth. His usually expressive eyes were distant, lost in a fog of frustration.

B, you okay?

Bradley sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping as he ran a hand through his disheveled hair. He looked up at her, the corners of his mouth tugging down in a frown.

I just ... I can't find the right sound, Stef. Something's missing, and I can't figure out what it is.

She offered a sympathetic smile, her eyes softening as she understood his struggle. The creative process was often unpredictable, sometimes exhilarating, and other times, painfully slow.

Maybe you need a change, a moment to breath and relax. Why don't we head over to my place? It might help to get out of the studio for a bit.

Bradley hesitated, his gaze dropping to the piano keys as if seeking answers in their familiar patterns.

I don't think Christian would be too thrilled about that.

He looked back at her, his eyes searching her face for any signs of discomfort. Stefani rolled her eyes, a mixture of amusement and exasperation crossing her features.

Christian's not home. He's out of town for the week. And even if he were, it doesn't matter. This is work, B. Besides, you're important to me.

Her words hung in the air, carrying more weight than she perhaps intended. Bradley looked at her, surprise flickering in his eyes.

Why didn't you mention Christian was gone?

Because it's not important. Come on, let's go.

The drive to Stefani's house was quiet, the silence between them not uncomfortable, but heavy with unspoken thoughts. The sky had darkened, clouds gathering ominously, promising a storm. As they pulled into the driveway, the first few drops of rain began to fall, quickly escalating into a steady downpour.
Stefani laughed, shaking her head at the timing of the rain.

Of course, it would start raining now! Come on, let's make a run for it.

She jumped out of the car, dashing towards the front door, her laughter blending with the sound of the rain. Bradley got out more slowly, stepping into the rain. He paused, standing there as the rain soaked through his clothes. It was almost as if a bolt of lightning had suddenly struck his head as he realized something. Stefani turned back, her smile fading as she noticed he wasn't following her.

Bradley, come on! You'll get soaked.

But he stopped in his tracks, right there, the rain cascading down his face, his expression unreadable. He took a deep breath, as if summoning the courage to speak, but couldn't find the right words.
There was a seriousness in his face that made her stop too. Her brow furrowed in confusion as she took a step closer, her concern deepening.

What is it?

Bradley looked at her, rain dripping from his hair and running down his face. His eyes, usually so warm and playful, were filled with an intense emotion that made her heart skip a beat.

I can't do that anymore!

What? What do you mean? Let's go inside, c'mon!

I can't do that anymore, Stef! I can't keep pretending there's nothing between us.