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.”

of this place seemed to press in on us, suffocating us slowly. With a resigned sigh, I nodded, conceding, “Fine, let’s grab something to eat

face brightened with enthusiasm, and he replied, “Great. I’ll give you some space to get ready.”

room.

thoughts, I realized that the topic of David loomed like an unspoken specter between us. The phone call with Rigger last night

with my determination to pursue David, especially after the call’s revelations. Yet, deep down, I felt compelled to take on the responsibility of digging

to do is convince Ravel to check on his office duties in New York, and

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his place, and take a sample of his hair before heading to Monica’s place to do the

need to confirm the fact that David isn’t really who I think he is. For the sake

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

and a shirt with black leather jacket, he pocketed his phone when he saw me coming down. The swiftness with which he pocketed the phone made my eyes narrow

issues.” He leaned forward and placed

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

you have

down to New York, even if it is for a day or two, so you can be sure nothing

hands, he took mine and squeezed gently. “I am not going back to New York until my daughter is found.” He insisted firmly, “and I trust Raymond

guys been

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

them. “And how is Elenor?” I really should give her a call. I’ve been

with therapy, but I’m sure she

be overwhelming for Raymond to be handling both Elenor and the business. “Are you really sure you do not want to touch down in New York?” I really won’t

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