Morning came. Sarah woke up alone — David had already left for work.
Last night… that wasn't just nothing. It was a warning. They're letting me know — they've found me.
She sat up slowly, eyes narrowed.
I need to act — and fast.
"Jake... I'm starting to think he's completely oblivious. But I can't be sure… not yet."
He's in love, huh? I'll take advantage of that… I'll get answers today.
She got up and headed for the bathroom.
After bathing, she stepped out, dropping her towel, eyes fixed on the mirror.
She slid into her underwear and took a moment — admiring, calculating.
Then—a knock.
The air shifted. He was there.
Why's he here?
"Who might it be?" she called, brushing her hair, already knowing.
"It's Jake…"
"Oh honey, what's up?"
Honey? Why's she still playing the sweet stepmom act?
"Well… you've been in there a while. I made breakfast. Yours is getting cold."
"Is that so?"
This could be my chance.
"Well, can you do stepmama a favor and bring it to me here?"
"Um… okay? I'll be back with it," he replied, footsteps fading.
Jake came back with the tray of food.
"I'mma just leave it here—outside the door," he said, crouching to place it down.
"Just bring it in," Sarah called from behind the door, voice light, teasing.
"You sure…?" he asked, hesitating. I haven't been inside Dad's room in years… not since Mom.
"Yes, of course. The door's unlocked," she replied smoothly.
He sighed. Picked up the tray. Here goes nothing.
He turned the knob and stepped in, eyes scanning the room slowly.
It was like time hadn't moved.
This place hasn't changed a bit.
Sarah watched him from the bed, wrapped loosely in the sheets, one leg peeking out. Her brow raised slightly. What's up with him?
She slid off the bed — graceful, intentional. The sheets fell away, revealing her in a tight sports bra and a low mini skirt that clung to her curves.
Jake was still frozen, tray in hand.
"You gonna give it to me?" she asked, stepping closer, "or just keep looking?"
He blinked like he'd just woken up.
"Oh—sorry. It's just…" His voice trailed off as his eyes finally met her body. He looked away fast. "Here," he mumbled, handing her the tray.
She took it slowly, brushing her fingers along his.
He stiffened.
"I'll just—uh—head out," he said, turning quickly.
"Wait," she said softly, setting the tray on the bed. "I don't wanna eat alone."
"I've already eaten," he said, still facing the door.
"Doesn't matter. Sit with me. We can… bond," she added, that word curling off her tongue like smoke.
"I really should—"
Before he could finish, her arms were around him from behind — light, but firm. Her body pressed gently against his back.
"C'mon," she whispered. "It's just breakfast."
He froze.
"O-okay."
She smiled behind him, her voice like silk.
He sees a little skin and turns to stone. This'll be easier than I thought.
She sat at the edge of the bed, the tray balanced on her lap as she ate.
Jake sat a few steps away, on one of those hanging egg chair.
"It's really good," Sarah said, mouth half-full, breaking the silence.
"Huh?" Jake looked up, still trying not to stare at her directly.
"The food. It's really nice. I didn't know boys could cook like this."
"Oh," Jake said, a little flattered. "I'm glad you like it… it's my mum's recipe."
"Mmm. She must've been one hell of a cook," Sarah replied, still enjoying every bite.
"Yeah… I haven't tasted food that compares to hers," he said with a soft smile, glancing her way — but his eyes clouded with memories.
He really adored her, Sarah thought, now finished with the meal, watching him closely.
"Is that so?" she asked, her voice lower. Their eyes met for a brief second.
"Tell me more about this supermom of yours."
"Well—" He hesitated, lowering his gaze to the floor. The smile faded.
"She was more than just a supermom," he said finally. "She was everything and more. With her, I always felt safe… loved. She didn't spoil me or anything. But she gave me what mattered — her time, her love, her full attention. Most of all, she gave me purpose."
His smile returned, a little brighter.
"She used to sit here, right by this window, just staring out like she was waiting for something. I really miss her."
"Wow," Sarah whispered as she stood, walking slowly toward him. "I never knew what that felt like… having a mum. Or a dad."
She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder.
"You're lucky, Jake. Even if it was short… cherish what you had."
She turned and walked back to the bed.
"Tell me something about you," Jake said, his voice firmer now.
"Me?" She raised a brow. "There's not much to say."
"C'mon. I'm curious."
Where'd the shy kid go all of a sudden? she thought, intrigued.
"Okay…" she started, running her hand through her hair. "I grew up in an orphanage. Till I was four. Then I got adopted by a man — my stepdad. I never knew what happened to my real parents. All the orphanage told me was… I was found in a box. Alone in a house."
She reached for the chain around her neck and held it up.
"This is the only thing they left me. A necklace with a wolf head pendant."
Jake leaned forward slightly. "It's beautiful. Kinda reminds me of the crescent moon necklace my mom always wore. She never took it off. She didn't even let me touch it."