That morning, light cut through the blinds. Daniel's couch held my shape. The air smelled like old coffee. A clock ticked behind me. My shoes were still on.
That place in Seattle he called home. Off I went the day before - on Christmas - claiming a job crisis pulled me back sooner than planned. Saying it stung like vinegar on a cut, while what really brought me stayed locked behind teeth still learning how to hold such weight.
Maybe it's Daniel. Off to Seattle, just to find out whether any of this works.
Light spilled into rooms I did not know. Over my hip lay Daniel's arm, heavy and still. Warmth rose from his breathing near my skin.
Stillness held me, then. A quiet warmth spread through my chest instead of words. Not alone. Needed here. This is where I belong.
Reality showed up. Then.
Still quiet around Jayce about it.
On my way, I sent a message. A thing popped up. Left sooner than planned. My apologies. Conversation will happen shortly.
He asked if everything was okay?
