Old Days Break Free [On Hold]

Words of Affirmation

Lorraine's POV

"Feel at home..." I said awkwardly upon arriving in my home with Athena.

Why does it feel so awkward? Maybe it's because of how I acted earlier—losing my composure out of sheer frustration and worry.

I couldn’t help myself when it came to her. Athena has this way of triggering emotions in me that I don’t quite understand.

She’s truly a force of nature, especially when her own emotions take the reins.

"Your house is huge," she remarked casually as we stepped into the living room, her voice full of awe. Her words tugged a small smile out of me, a moment of relief from the tension I had been holding.

"And beautiful, like you," she added, her voice so nonchalant, yet the effect on me was profound.

Her compliment brought me to a complete halt, my breath catching in my throat. I wasn’t used to hearing those words from her.

Still, I quickly composed myself and continued walking, leaving her in the living room, trying to brush off the sudden warmth creeping up my chest.

I made my way to my room, desperate for a moment to gather myself.

I needed a change of clothes, something more comfortable, as the day had been long and trying.

Earlier, we’d attempted to go to her place, but there was a crowd outside protesting. It was unsettling, but at least they hadn’t turned violent.

Filipinos these days, they seem to thrive on creating chaos—it’s infuriating sometimes.

After changing into something more relaxed, I stood in front of the mirror, wiping away my makeup.

The events of the day replayed in my mind, and as I tried to make sense of it all, a sudden knock at the door broke my thoughts.

"Come in," I called out, and the door slowly creaked open. There she stood—Athena, leaning against the doorframe.

Her presence was undeniable, her gaze locking with mine. I could feel something shift between us, the air becoming heavier.

I noticed how her suit had become slightly disheveled.

The sleeves were rolled up now, and her tie was hanging loosely around her neck. It was an effortless look on her, one that carried an unusual sense of allure.

She looked so different from Jezreel, who always maintained a strict, formal appearance in his suits.

"You know, it’s rude to leave your guest in the living room without any entertainment," she said, her tone cold, almost emotionless.

The chill in her voice sent shivers down my spine, igniting an unexpected sense of fear mixed with embarrassment.

"I'm sorry—"

"Thank you for letting me stay the night," she interrupted before I could finish, her voice cutting through my apology.

She offered me a smile then, a smile so foreign on her that it felt like seeing a side of her I had never known existed.