Chapter 38
THIRTY-EIGHT
The clock on the bedside table says it’s only six in the morning, yet the sunlight filters through the curtains, making me smile. I sit up in the bed, rubbing the sleep off my eyes, stretching my arms above my head, and realize that Arlo isn’t next to me.
Slowly, I push the blanket off my body, tossing my legs over the edge of the bed. My bare feet are almost silent on the dark, wooden floors as I leave the bedroom, the door closing behind me without a sound.
I don’t bother changing out of the shirt I slept in — it’s Arlo’s. It’s one of my favorite things to sleep in, and no matter how many pajamas he buys me, nothing can compare sleeping in something of his, that’s coated in his divine smell.
My movements come to a halt when I reach the stairs, my eyes closing for a moment.
The scent of freshly brewed coffee carries through the penthouse, drifting through the air.
It’s a rich scent that makes me all warm on the inside.
The earthy, smoky undertone of the fragrance only adds to the depth, and the fact that Arlo always picks the best beans to brew.
The smile doesn’t leave my lips as I cascade down the stairs.
The closer I get, the giddier I get. I know that the love of my life is right there — waiting for me.
I’m proven correct, because just as I stand on the last step of the large staircase, the sound I’ve been missing fills my ears.
Arlo’s fingers glide over the keys, the soft tune of the piano making my heart skip a beat.
For a moment, I don’t move. I allow myself to enjoy the piece that he composed for me, happiness swirling inside of me, making me almost ready to burst with excitement.
I try to move as silently as possible — though, it’s impossible.
He always senses my presence before he sees me, and today is no different.
However, he doesn’t stop. I just observe while Arlo plays the piano, the melody causing goosebumps to prickle my skin.
On top of the piano are two cups of coffee, the steam filtering into the air.
Arlo’s hair shines under the morning moonlight, the otherwise silent place providing a sense of comfort, and I can’t help but smile.
I love this man, with every ounce of my being.
Arlo’s fingers hover over the keys for a moment, and then he chuckles.
“Come here, Butterfly.” A soft chuckle escapes me, and I make my way to the little bench, taking a seat next to him.
He glances at me, the gentle look in his eyes making my entire body erupt in butterflies.
God, the way he looks at me — like I’m the most precious person in his life.
“How did you sleep?” He asks, taking my hand in his.
As always, he presses his lips against my knuckles, the loving gaze of his making me want to drown in the sensation.
“Great,” I smile. “Why are you up so early?”
“I wanted to make you some coffee, and then something to eat. Anything in particular you’d like?”
I shake my head. “No, whatever you want to make is fine.”
“Then, you can wait here and drink your coffee while I make everything.”
“Wait,” I stop him before he can even stand up. “Can you play something for me?”
He smiles. “What do you want me to play?”
“Do you remember the melody you played for me when you first brought me to the penthouse?”
Arlo nods. “It’s a heavy one, though. Are you sure that’s what you want? I’ve composed a few lighter, softer ones for you.”
“I don’t know why, that’s my absolute favorite.”
“Alright then.”
Arlo takes a small breath, then starts playing again. I lean my cheek against his shoulder, eyes closing while the tunes relax me. Arson makes an appearance, jumping into my lap. Her soft purrs make me chuckle, and she nuzzles her head into my stomach, slowly drifting off to sleep.
Arlo’s music is enough to tell me that today is going to be a good one. The peace we have right now is something I’ll never be able to let go of, it will forever remain one of my most cherished moments.
This is all I need.
Arlo, so close to me, being himself. The best version of himself, the one I fell in love with. In my eyes, he’s perfect. He could never do any wrong, and the way he shows his love for me, day after day is enough proof that this man was born to be mine.
There’s nothing that will ever tear us apart.
This peace is something I will protect with everything I have. The kindness of his heart is something I’ll do anything to preserve because it’s thanks to him that I’m here — alive, stronger than ever.
Arlo De Santis is the love of my life.
And our life is only just starting.
With him by my side, I’m the best version of myself, and the nightmares are gone.
This is the start of forever.
Our forever.