Yesterday unfolded as a day when the weight of truths about my father, truths I wasn't yet ready to hear, was laid bare. Our conversation was an exploration of past and present, a dance between vulnerability and revelations.
**Yesterday**
"I can't reveal everything I know, but did you ever know that you have pretty eyes?" Max's words hung in the air, his gaze locked onto mine, diving into the depths of my crystal blue eyes. "I like seeing myself in your eyes, not out of love, mind you," he added, his smile enigmatic and his intentions cloaked.
Flirting or mere observation? My thoughts raced as I pondered his words. My response remained stuck in my throat as I distracted myself with another shot of vodka. Unfamiliar with the solace alcohol seemed to bring, I allowed it to create distance from the complexities of the day.
A chuckle escaped me as I observed Max's behaviour, revealing an unexpectedly talkative side of him that stood in contrast to his otherwise composed demeanour. The glimpses of his childlike nature intrigued me, mingling with the flashes of memory and the shadows of what lay beneath.
As the night wore on, my curiosity compelled me to dig deeper into Max's life. "So, Max Raynot, age 27, and the CEO of the RNT Technology industry," I recited with a playful grin, attempting to piece together the enigma that was Max.
"You've got me pegged," he quipped, acknowledging my attempt at uncovering the layers beneath his poised exterior. The air between us was charged with subtle energy, a sense of anticipation that hinted at stories waiting to be told.
Our conversation shifted, weaving between light-hearted banter and moments of introspection. Max's confession about the ruthlessness of the corporate world resonated, reminding me of the edges that success often demanded.
"You're right," Max agreed, his playful demeanour giving way to a more serious tone. "We don't need to delve into my world of business tonight."
A pause followed, and I felt the weight of Max's gaze on me. The room seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the next chapter of our interaction. And then, the unexpected confession spilt from his lips like a secret long held.
"How long will it take for you to be mine?" Max's words hung like an echo in the room. The vulnerability in his voice was palpable, baring his emotions to the world. "I miss you, Lana. The pain of loving someone who doesn't remember you, who doesn't love you back, it's indescribable. But I'll wait, patiently."
Max's sincerity pierced through my thoughts, casting a new light on the situation. The supposed connection we shared defied logic, yet his conviction was unwavering. My mind raced, trying to reconcile what I knew with what I was learning.
"Surprised, I understand," Max acknowledged the turmoil within me. "I didn't say that to elicit an immediate response. Let's focus on your father first and take things slow."
With a deliberate motion, Max placed a set of keys on the table. "Take these, they're the keys to my house. I've prepared a room for you since our last encounter. You can move in tomorrow."
His actions left me speechless, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. The truth about my father loomed, mingling with Max's confession and the intriguing puzzle of our shared past.
As I held the keys in my hand, I couldn't shake the feeling that the lines between reality and fiction were becoming increasingly blurred.
**Back to reality**
I needed to talk to Abi about moving out. I wasn't sure how she'd react, especially because I was considering moving in with Max. After sharing a living space for almost four months, familiarity had woven its comfort between us. However, the uncertainty of my situation and the dangers involved urged me to make this decision. I splashed cold water on my face and headed downstairs.
"Morning! Late night, huh? Liam had to take care of Max, I heard?" Abi said cheerfully while cooking breakfast. "Yep, you're right. Max was a bit out of it, so I had to wait for Liam to help him out," I replied, grabbing a glass of juice. "Want some?" I asked Abi, gesturing to the juice.
"Sure, thanks," she said, smiling. We sat down to eat, and amidst bites of toast and sips of coffee, I felt the need to share my decision. I hesitated for a moment before opening up. "Abi, I've been thinking about this – I'm planning to move out soon," I said, my gaze fixed on the table. She looked at me with surprise, and I could see the concern in her eyes. "Remember how I've told you about my family and their search for me? It's getting riskier, and I can't put you in danger anymore. You've done so much for me in these past few months, and I can't ask you to risk your safety any longer. My father is no ordinary man; he won't stop until he finds me and anyone who's been sheltering me," I explained earnestly.
Abigail's expression shifted from surprise to contemplation. After a long silence, she finally spoke up, "What if we move in together, wherever you're planning to go?" Her proposal caught me off guard. I turned to face her, taken aback by her unexpected suggestion. "Abi, that's not a good idea. I'm moving out to keep you safe. It won't make any sense if you follow me," I said, concern evident in my voice. She stood up abruptly and headed to her room without a word. I called her, but she didn't respond. I respected her need for space and decided to give her some time.
Upstairs, I began packing my belongings. Just as I was considering texting Max to confirm our plans, a notification popped up. It was a message from him: "I'll be picking you up in an hour. Don't be late. Max." I glanced at Abi's closed door, unsure of her mood.
40 minutes later, I'd finished packing, but Abi still hadn't emerged from her room. Max's arrival was imminent, but I wanted to make things right with Abi before I left. I knocked on her door, and after a moment, it cracked open.
"Hey, are you all packed?" she asked. "Yeah, I'm done," I replied, my heart pounding in anticipation. There was a pause, and I felt the need to clarify things. "Abi, Max will be here in less than 20 minutes. I just…" I trailed off as she cut me off.
"Lana, let's move in together. Don't worry about my safety. Accept me as someone who can stand by you, regardless of the danger," she said, determination in her voice. "I've packed my things too. Less than 20 minutes, right?" she asked, a glimmer of hope in her eyes.
"Yeah, less than 20 minutes," I confirmed, a mixture of surprise and gratitude welling up within me. "You should also meet Max properly later. He's the guy from last night, remember?" I asked. "I'd like that," she replied with a smile. "Cheer up, Lana! This might be an adventure waiting to happen," she said, her optimism infectious.
Just then, a car horn echoed outside, indicating Max's arrival. We hurried downstairs. Max greeted us with his usual charm as he helped load the bags into the car. I couldn't help but notice the way Abi glanced at him, a mixture of curiosity and assessment in her eyes. Max's appearance was striking; his casual yet stylish attire showcased a different side of him. As he exchanged playful banter with Abi, I realised they might get along.
"Caught you staring, Lana. Checking out your man?" Max teased, his grin mischievous. I blushed, momentarily flustered. "Oh, no, I wasn't… I mean, I was lost in thought, and your direction happened to be in my line of sight," I stammered, my cheeks burning.
Max laughed, clearly enjoying the moment. "Alright, let's get going then," he said, his eyes twinkling. Just as we were about to leave, Abi dashed to the car and hopped into the backseat. Max raised an eyebrow, surprised by her boldness. "Where to?" he asked. "Lana's moving in, so I'm coming along," Abi announced a determined smile on her face. Max exchanged a glance with me, and a chuckle escaped his lips. "Didn't expect a housewarming party so soon," he quipped.
Abi and I exchanged bemused glances before bursting into laughter. With Abi by my side, the prospect of facing whatever challenges awaited seemed a lot less daunting.