Chapter 121

HAZEL

PRESENT TIME

Last night, as the hours ticked away, Ravel and I found ourselves trapped in the clutches of insomnia, unable to slip into the realm of dreams. I made a conscious decision to forgo any sleep–inducing pills, a choice rooted in my ongoing effort to curb their consumption, steering clear of any potential addiction that might rear its head.

The subsequent morning arrived with its soft light filtering through the curtains, painting a new day. Groggily, I opened my eyes to the sight of Ravel’s silhouette, a gentle smile on his face, and two cups of freshly brewed coffee in his hands.

“Good morning.” I managed to mumble, my body weary from the battle with restlessness that had consumed a significant part of the night. For the sake of both Ravel and myself, I hoped that this day would offer a better beginning, free from the shadows of sleeplessness and a good news about my daughter.

Ravel’s response was kind and supportive as he handed me one of the coffee cups. “Good morning to you too,” he said, his tone filled with empathy. “You’re going to need this to kickstart your day effectively,” he added, acknowledging the importance of caffeine in helping us shake off the remnants of a sleepless night.

With a weary but appreciative smile, I took the offered coffee and brought it to my lips, hoping the rich aroma and caffeine infusion would rouse my tired cells from their slumber. My curiosity got the better of me as I couldn’t help but inquire, “What time did you manage to wake up?” I knew that I had nodded off before him, and since I had last glimpsed the clock, it couldn’t have been more than a few hours past four in the morning. “Did you get any rest at all?”

Ravel met my gaze with a soft smile, reassuring me, “I dozed off right after you did.” He took a final, hearty gulp of his coffee, then deposited the empty cup gently on the table. “How about we switch things up today and grab breakfast outside?” he proposed, the prospect of a fresh morning meal dancing in his eyes.

However, the thought of food didn’t sit well with my stomach at the moment. “I’m not really hungry,” I admitted, placing my now–empty cup on the bedside table. I rolled off the bed and made my way to the bathroom. “But if you’re feeling hungry, please don’t let my lack of appetite hold you back from enjoying a meal,” I added with a faint smile before disappearing into the bathroom.

Stepping into the bathroom, I moved with deliberate care, retrieving my toothbrush and toothpaste from the shelf. With each stroke, I scrubbed my teeth, the rhythmic swish of the bristles providing a small but comforting distraction from the lingering weight of sleepless nights.

As I diligently cleaned my teeth, I noticed Ravel still hovering near the doorway, silently watching me. His presence, although unspoken, carried a sense of unity and support, a reminder that we were in this together. The mundane act of brushing my teeth felt strangely comforting, a small island of normalcy in our otherwise turbulent world.

Ravel finally spoke up, his voice carrying a hint of longing for fresh air and a break from the relentless confinement. “Even if you’re not hungry, I think it’s essential for us to step outside the confines of this house.”

couldn’t deny that the walls of this place seemed to press in on us, suffocating us slowly. With a resigned sigh, I nodded, conceding, “Fine,

replied, “Great. I’ll give you some space to get

room.

with my thoughts, I realized that the topic of David loomed like an unspoken specter between us. The phone call with Rigger last night had stirred emotions, concerns, and unresolved questions. I knew that a significant conversation

might not agree with my determination to pursue David, especially after the call’s revelations. Yet, deep down, I felt compelled to take

his office duties in New York, and when he leaves for

1/3

sample of his hair

the fact that David isn’t really who I think he is. For the sake of our friendship and relationship, I am not going to jump to a conclusion until I have a shred of valid and concrete evidence to

simple black dress before walking out of the room in search of Ravel. I found him in the living room, already dressed up. I guess he returned to the bedroom to dress while I was taking a shower.

jacket, he pocketed his phone when he saw me coming down. The swiftness with which he pocketed the phone made my

was speaking with Raymond about some business issues.” He leaned forward and placed a kiss on my forehead.

hand, we walked into the parking lot. Ravel opened the passenger door for me and when I got in, he rounded the car and got into the driver’s seat. I watched him as he carefully rolled the car out of the

glance quickly at me. “Do you have something

confessed, “Don’t you think you should head down to New York, even if it is for a day or

and squeezed gently. “I am not going back to New York until my daughter is found.” He insisted

you guys been able to sort

an indication that he wasn’t so sure of the answer himself. “We aren’t there yet, but we’re getting somewhere.”

Elenor?” I really should give her a call. I’ve been so

struggling with therapy, but I’m sure she will

touch down in New York?” I really won’t mind. It’s not like we are the ones going from street

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255