Isabella woke up with a sense of contentment and a smile that seemed to radiate from within. Feeling energized, she quickly dressed and made her way to the kitchen, excited to prepare breakfast. With a skilled hand, she whipped up a delicious spread of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a side of freshly sliced fruits. The aroma filled the air, creating a comforting atmosphere.
Placing the plates of food on the dining table, Isabella headed to the living room to call Azazel. As she entered, she noticed him lying on the chair, his eyes closed. She couldn't help but wonder if he was asleep or had journeyed to the spirit realm, lost in his thoughts.
Standing in front of him, a mix of curiosity and concern filled her mind. "Should I wake him or let him be?." Before she could make a decision, Azazel's eyes suddenly snapped open. The brightness of his piercing green eyes caught her off guard, causing her to instinctively step back, her heart racing with a touch of fear.
Azazel, aware of Isabella's unease, closed his eyes and then slowly opened them again. This time, his eyes appeared normal, their intense glow fading. Isabella, still a bit shaken, found her voice and stammered, "Um, Azazel, breakfast is ready. Would you like to join me?"
Azazel's gaze softened as he observed Isabella's reaction. He understood the effect his eyes could have and felt a pang of guilt for unintentionally scaring her. Offering her an understanding smile, he nodded and replied, "Of course, Isabella. I apologize if my eyes startled you. I'll join you for breakfast."
Relieved by his reassuring response, Isabella regained her composure and led the way back to the dining area. They sat down, facing each other, and began to enjoy the hearty meal she had prepared. As they savoured the flavours, the tension from earlier dissipated, replaced by a comfortable silence.
With breakfast nearly finished, Isabella mustered the courage to speak up, her voice steady yet filled with curiosity. "Azazel, I couldn't help but notice how bright your eyes were earlier. What was that?"
Azazel's expression softened as he met her gaze. He took a moment to collect his thoughts before answering, "Isabella, it's a manifestation of my powers, a glimpse into my true form. Sometimes, when my emotions are heightened, it becomes more apparent. But I assure you, it's nothing to be afraid of. I can control it."
With breakfast concluded, Isabella cleared her throat, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Azazel, I made breakfast. So, you need to do the dishes," she declared, trying to maintain a serious tone.
Azazel scoffed, his pride refusing to let him perform such menial tasks. "Isabella, I can't possibly lower myself to serve a mere mortal in such a manner. It goes against my nature," he protested, crossing his arms defiantly.
Isabella felt a mix of frustration and amusement bubbling within her. She was about to react when Azazel's expression shifted, a smirk playing on his lips. Curiosity tugged at her as he snapped his fingers. Suddenly, as if by magic, the dishes were no longer soiled. They gleamed with cleanliness, as if they had never been used.
A mixture of awe and surprise filled Isabella's eyes as she observed the sparkling dishes. "You... you did the dishes?" she asked, a sense of wonder lacing her words.
Azazel's smirk widened as he nodded, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Indeed, Isabella. I may not wash them in the traditional manner, but my powers allow me to perform such tasks effortlessly. Consider it a small demonstration of what I can do."
A delighted smile spread across Isabella's face, her mind racing with the possibilities. "Since you have this unique ability, Azazel, I think it's only fair that you take on all the household chores then," she declared playfully, her grin widening.
Azazel's eyebrows raised in mock surprise, but a playful glimmer danced in his eyes. "Oh, is that so? Well, I suppose, I will bathe you as well," Azazel teased.
Mesmerized by Azazel's willingness to play along, Isabella collected the plates and cutlery and returned them to the kitchen. As she made her way to her room to freshen up and prepare for her day at the store.
A few minutes later, Isabella emerged from her room, feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day. She entered the living room to find Azazel waiting, his presence emanating an air of calm and intrigue. With a determined look in her eyes, she spoke, her voice laced with a hint of urgency, "I'm ready, Azazel. Let's go open the store. But remember, you have to ride with me and avoid disappearing and appearing at the store. We can't have Sarah witnessing any supernatural occurrences. I wouldn't know how to explain that."
Azazel nodded, understanding the importance of keeping his presence discreet. He proceeded to step out of the house, waiting for Isabella to lock up before they embarked on their journey. As they made their way to the car, Isabella couldn't help but notice that Azazel was still clad in the same outfit he had worn since their first encounter. The realization struck her, and she couldn't hold back her curiosity. "Azazel, do you think you could use your powers to acquire some money? We could buy new clothes for you," she suggested, hoping to address his appearance.
Azazel appeared to ignore her query, remaining silent as they approached the car. Isabella couldn't help but wonder if her request had been too audacious. However, as they settled into the vehicle, Azazel's voice broke the silence. "Check your bag, Isabella. You'll find the means to acquire new outfits," he said, his tone filled with confidence that piqued her interest.
Doubt mingled with anticipation, Isabella reached for her bag, her fingers trembling slightly. She unzipped it, her eyes widening as she beheld a stack of money neatly tucked inside. A mix of surprise, excitement, and gratitude washed over her, culminating in a wide smile that adorned her face. She turned to Azazel, a grateful glimmer in her eyes, and spoke with genuine appreciation, "Azazel, thank you. I don't know how you managed it, but I truly appreciate this gesture."
With a hint of a smirk playing on his lips, Azazel nodded, acknowledging her gratitude. As Isabella started the car and drove towards the store, she couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of anticipation for the day ahead.