Addicted to the Rebel

Chapter 5

Nova

Istretch, feeling the soft sheets against my skin as I wake. My fingers run through my tousled hair, carrying the faint scent of Phoenix”s cologne.

A warm blush creeps across my cheeks as I remember last night. The roughness of his stubbled jaw on my skin.

The softness of his firm yet tender lips. The taste of whiskey and desire on his tongue as it danced with mine.

The way he pulled me against him, our curves and edges fitting like puzzle pieces. Like I was always meant to be there.

And that flutter—that breathless leap of my heart as he pulled me closer.

Heat rushes to my face as I relive the moment, desire pooling low in my belly. I clutch the sheets to my chest, my face hot as I relive our passionate kiss. I press my thighs together to tame the ache.

My fingers linger on my smiling lips, savoring the memory of his kiss. I close my eyes and picture Phoenix”s handsome face, recalling his tender gaze and reverent touch. He held me like I was the only woman in the world.

An unfamiliar longing blossoms in my chest—a yearning for more of his touch, his taste, his everything. Butterflies erupt in my belly at the thought of exploring this intoxicating connection.

After a lifetime of friendship, crossing this line seemed unimaginable. Yet it feels right despite my uncertainty last night.

Phoenix makes me feel cherished. Safe. Like coming home. So why am I fighting it?

Fear. That Phoenix doesn’t want the same as I do. Of it not working out. Of being hurt again.

But I can’t deny that my battered heart is falling for Phoenix. I think I’ve been falling for him for years.

It”s more than gratitude for his kindness or the crush I had as a girl. It”s a deep, primal desire to be his—mind, body, and soul.

God, what is happening to me? I throw back the covers and swing my legs out of bed.

I pad barefoot across the wooden floor, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. The bedroom is sparse and impersonal—nothing like my cozy nest back home.

No family photos on the nightstand, no stacks of my well-worn books in the corners. Not even a cherished piece of jewelry to remind me of happier times.

But that”s about to change.

This place may be bare now, but soon, it will be a sanctuary—a home filled with warmth and laughter.

A smile tugs at my lips as I picture the touches I”ll add. A framed snapshot of Maya”s grin. Potted plants to liven up the room.Throws and pillows and rugs to make it cozy.

I grab jeans and a soft sweater from the closet. My reflection shows a woman I barely recognize—eyes sparkling, cheeks flushed.

I head to the kitchen and light the old, worn stove. Collecting ingredients from the bag Destiny brought along the previous evening, I set to work making Maya”s favorite—fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup.

I set the small table with the mismatched plates and cutlery. The sweet, buttery aroma of the pancakes fills the kitchen, making it feel like home. The pitter-patter of little feet approaches.

“Smells yummy,” Maya says, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

“Morning, baby girl.” I scoop her up and pepper her rosy cheeks with kisses until she squeals.

“Did you have fun with Destiny last night?” I ask as I set her down at the tiny kitchen table.

Maya nods enthusiastically, her wild curls bouncing. “Uh-huh! We played Go Fish and watched a movie. Destiny even let me braid her hair!”

I slide a plate piled high with pancakes in front of her. “That”s wonderful, baby. I”m so glad you had a good time.”

Watching her gobble up breakfast like only a kid can, warms my heart. As she digs in, humming happily around each bite, I can”t resist spilling the details of my night.

“You know, Mommy went out to dinner with Phoenix. We went to this cute little diner downtown. And they had the most amazing pie—cherry, with a buttery, flaky crust.” I fan myself dramatically. “To die for.”

Maya”s eyes widen. “Can we go there, Mommy? Please?”

I lean down to bop her button nose. “Of course, sweetie. I”ll take you there one night. You”re going to love it.”

After breakfast, I help Maya get ready for school, and we head out the door.

I give her one last squeeze before sending her to class with a bright smile. “Have an amazing day, baby. I”ll be right here waiting when school lets out.”

She beams, that sunshine grin melting my heart like it always does. Maya scampers off to join her friends, her backpack bouncing against her back.

Her happiness, despite everything going on, makes me smile. A pang of gratitude swells in my chest.

Keeping Maya in her familiar school routine has been a blessing.

I”m grateful that the school is so close to our temporary home. Losing the house was devastating, but at least Maya didn”t have to change schools.

I couldn”t bear putting her through another upheaval. She”s already going through so much, my brave little girl.

My mind drifts to the cozy apartment above the motorcycle shop. I never imagined finding refuge with a motorcycle crew, of all places. Yet Phoenix and his friends are treating us like family.

I shake my head in disbelief. Lightness fills my heart, and it”s all thanks to Phoenix. He”s made me feel protected in a way I haven”t since, well, maybe ever.

I head back home, my mind racing about the upcoming job interview at the real estate office. This is a big deal.

Phoenix has done so much for us, and I want to make him proud and show that his faith in me isn”t misplaced.

I quickly freshen up, splashing some cool water on my face and applying a light touch of makeup. I pull on my best professional outfit—a crisp white blouse and tailored black slacks sitting in the back of my closet, waiting for such an occasion.

After weeks of living in comfy tees and yoga pants, the tight fit is foreign.

I smooth my hands down the front of my blouse and take a deep breath as I study my reflection in the mirror.

The woman staring back at me looks polished and put-together, a far cry from the exhausted single mom I”ve been lately.

I tuck a stray curl behind my ear and give myself a reassuring nod.

“You”ve got this,” I tell my reflection.

Picking up my purse, I head out the door, a mix of excitement and anxiety churning in my belly. This job could be the fresh start I”ve desperately needed—a chance to rebuild my life and provide for Maya on my terms.

As I step out into the warm morning sun, I can”t help but think of Phoenix. His unwavering support has been my lifeline through all of this. Knowing he”s in my corner gives me a surge of confidence.

I pull into a parking spot right in front of Heartwood Realty Group, nestled on Maplewood”s quaint Main Street.

As I step out of my car, I admire the rustic charm. The weathered brickwork and dark wooden beams give it a warm, inviting feel. Large, paned windows offer a tantalizing glimpse into the interior.

I push open the heavy wooden door, taking a deep breath to calm my nerves. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee greets me, mingling with the faint scent of old paper and polished wood. It”s a comforting smell, somehow both professional and homely.

As I step into the reception area, I’m drawn to the large antique desk. It”s a beautiful piece with intricate carvings and gleaming dark wood and has been repurposed as a welcoming station.

Glossy brochures cover its surface, showcasing an array of properties, from sprawling ranches to cozy townhouses.

To the side, plush leather chairs face a stone fireplace, forming a cozy seating area. It looks like the perfect spot to sit with a client and listen to their housing dreams.

I run my fingertips along the edge of the desk, marveling at the history it must have seen. Something about the blend of old and new puts me at ease.

It”s like this place is saying, “We”ve been around a while. We know what we”re doing.”

I straighten my shoulders and smooth down my blouse with a renewed sense of confidence. I approach the reception desk to introduce myself and take the first step toward my new career.

The receptionist”s warm smile instantly puts me at ease. “Good morning! How can I help you?”

I return her smile, albeit nervously. “Hi, I”m Nova Williams. I have an interview scheduled for this morning.”

Her eyes light up with recognition. “Oh, Nova! You”re a friend of Destiny”s. She and I went to school together. She”s told me so much about you and your adorable little girl, Maya. I’m Melinda.”

I blush, touched that Destiny has been talking about us. Seems like Phoenix isn’t the only one who’s put in a good word for me.

It”s a reminder of the incredible support system I”ve found in Phoenix and his friends.

“Yes, that”s me,” I say, my smile growing more genuine.

“Wonderful. Please follow me.” Melinda stands and guides me down a corridor.

I take in the historical maps and photographs lining the walls. Each image tells a story, from the sepia-toned shots of the town”s founding days to more recent ones of smiling families in front of their new homes.

It”s a beautiful tribute to the town”s rich history and the deep roots of this agency.

Melinda leads me to a small conference room where the hiring manager awaits. “The manager is in here. Good luck!”

A friendly-looking woman with graying hair holds out her hand as I enter. “Welcome, Nova. I’m Frances Meyer.”

I smile and shake her outstretched hand. “Nice to meet you, Frances.”

Frances gestures to one of the comfortable leather chairs surrounding a polished wooden table. “Please, have a seat.”

I sit as she flips through my résumé, taking a deep breath and smoothing my blouse for the umpteenth time.

Frances inquires about my organizational skills and experience in handling multiple responsibilities.

I answer confidently, drawing from my years of balancing work, household duties, and raising Maya.

My voice grows stronger and more confident. I’m amazed at how poised I sound.

Midway through the discussion, the faint rumble of a motorcycle reverberates through the room.

My mind flashes to Phoenix, picturing him astride his bike with that crooked grin.The thought of him gives me an extra boost of courage.

“Aldis filled me in a bit about what you and Maya have been going through,” Frances says. “You”re handling things incredibly well.”

It means so much to have my strength acknowledged after feeling so defeated for so long.

“Thank you,” I reply, my voice thick with emotion. “The breakup affected me deeply, but Maya deserves to see her mom staying strong and independent through it all.”

Frances nods, a warm smile spreading across her face. “That”s the spirit. We need someone with your level of determination and resilience here.”

A small, hopeful smile pulls at my lips as the weight of her words sinks in. Could this be it? The fresh start I”ve been dreaming of?

Frances glances at her notes before meeting my gaze with a warm smile, seemingly satisfied with my responses.

She stands and extends her hand. “You”ll be a great fit here at Heartwood Realty Group. Welcome to the team.”

Gripping her hand firmly, I assure her, “Thank you so much. You won”t be disappointed.”

My cheeks hurt from smiling so hard, but I don”t care. This is a fresh start—a new beginning for Maya and me.

After filling in the paperwork and agreeing on a start date, I exit the building, my heart soaring with excitement and relief. I got the job!

As I approach the parking lot, I spot a familiar figure leaning against his motorcycle—Phoenix, arms folded, with a proud smile.

I shake my head with a laugh, not even needing to ask what he”s doing here. Of course, he”d show up.

His smile widens, crinkling the corners of those soulful eyes I lost myself in last night—longer, if I’m honest. “Congratulations on the new job.”

I laugh. “How did you know?”

Phoenix chuckles, that deep rumble sending delicious shivers down my spine. “You got me there. I had a feeling they”d be smart enough to snatch you up.”

He unfolds his arms, and I instinctively step into his embrace, glad there’s no awkwardness after our kiss last night. The faint trace of motor oil and leather clings to his skin, and I inhale deeply.

“I”m proud of you, Nova,” he says, his lips brushing the top of my head.

I pull back, looking at him with a grateful smile. “I couldn”t have done it without you,” I admit in a hushed voice. “Your support means everything.”

Phoenix cups my cheek in one calloused palm, his thumb tracing my cheekbone with a feather-light touch. “You”ve got this, beautiful. No matter what, I”m right here.”

I nod, my heart swelling with emotion. “I know.”

After a few heartbeats suspended in our private bubble, Phoenix clears his throat and steps back, though his hand lingers on the small of my back.He glances at his watch. “Do you have time for a coffee?”

“I”d love that,” I reply, already picturing us tucked into a cozy corner booth at Java Joe’s, trading inside jokes over steaming mugs of coffee. “But not for too long—I need to pick up Maya from school soon.”

Phoenix nods, his expression softening at the mention of Maya. “Wouldn”t want to keep that little munchkin waiting.”

Touched by his thoughtfulness, I smile. “Lead the way.”