Shadow Cat arrived early for the first time since the incident. Before entering his home he hesitated. He really wanted to walk in, watch some television, and hopefully get some rest. His energy was completely gone, his body moved slowly and he was extremely hungry. But besides all that the last thing he wanted to do was run into Marie and have her remind him of how worthless he is. He was not sure what will be expecting him when he entered but he hoped Marie was in her room and he could be avoid her some more. At least for today he really just wanted to rest.
Shadow Cat was surprised as he was greeted with an amazing aroma coming from the kitchen. His mouth watered. He was tempted to follow the intoxicating smell but decided that it would not be the best idea. Was he ready to face the hate that would come his way? No, he wasn't. As much as he wanted to enter the kitchen he decided to walk towards his room instead.
Marie had been in the kitchen the past two hours. She had decided she wanted things to change between her and Shadow so she took the first step. She made sure she would have a nice warm meal ready for him when he arrived home. Maybe they could apologize to one another, talk and get to know each other. Marie was aware she had been acting like a bitch. She noticed how she constantly reminded him he was nothing but a criminal, how she insulted him and made him feel worthless. But was he really? How would she know if she never gave him a chance?
If Marie really looked back she could see he was always more than that at least he tried to be for her. Yes he had kidnapped her but he made sure she was fed, clothed, and taken care of. Yes he killed three men but it was to protect and save her life. Yes he raped her but he was not himself and even then he tried to stop and when he couldn't he provided her with an immense pleasure that she could not help but want more of it.
Of course the thought being raped still made her angry but she did like it, she knew he was not in control, and he did feel guilty for it. His actions proved it. But her, all she did was put lemon juice on an open wound over and over again.
That was the moment Marie realized Shadow Cat was not just a criminal. At least not to her, not anymore. In fact, she realized that he was caring, he was hard working, he was smart, and she liked him. Marie no longer felt disgusted. She was no longer filled of hate. She was not mad not with him and not with herself. After all things do happen for a reason right?
Marie could not lie she was still sad. Sad because she missed her family greatly, her parents were always so proud of her and while she did not see them often due to her hectic schedule she loved them greatly. But even though she felt sad part of her felt at peace, funny right? Even when she was locked in a house with a stranger not being able to see the light of day she felt at peace. Who knows maybe if she gave Shadow Cat a chance to prove himself she could genuinely be happy. He could make her happy.
Marie's thoughts were interrupted by the opening sound of the front door. Shadow was home and he was early. "Well it's now or never." Marie whispered as her heart began to beat faster. She was so nervous. Her hands shook as she heard his footsteps come closer. Nervous thoughts clouded her mind. What if he did not want to see her? What if he hated her cooking? What if she said the wrong thing and he ended up hating her?
Marie breathed in deeply and composed herself. With a smile on her face she waited for Shadow to walk into the kitchen. That smile soon turned into a frown when she heard the footsteps come to a stop turn and begin to fade.
Marie's heart shattered at the thought of him no longer wanting anything to do with her but she said she would make things change and she'd be damned if she backed out after all this work in the kitchen. Marie walked out of the kitchen and towards him. She would do whatever it takes for him to stop avoiding her. "Hey" She spoke softly but loud enough to earn his attention making him come to a stop. Shadow was shocked to say the least. She was here behind him speaking to him. This was a first. Should he say something? I guess so.
"Hey" hey replied while turning to face her. "Umm I didn't mean to bother you but I- I made dinner do you maybe like want to join me? " She asked hopefully. He looked at her in total surprise. "Really?" "Yeah, well if you want to that is." Marie played with the fingers nervously waiting for his response. "Yeah that would be nice I am hungry" he gave her a small laugh and she let out a sigh of relief.
Marie's black eyes met his hazel eyes and their hearts filled with warmth. For the first time ever she heard his laugh and saw his smile and it was absolutely stunning. "Shall we?"