Rival Hearts: An Unexpected Duo!

Before Becky could react, Freen's arms were around her neck, pulling her close. Becky held her breath, a wave of warmth spreading through her as Freen's body pressed against hers. For a fleeting moment, she was tense, unsure how to respond. But then, Freen felt so warm, so safe… and Becky began to relax, her arms instinctively wrapping around Freen's waist. She tightened her hold, a silent expression of her gratitude that Freen was alive, that she was here.

Freen closed her eyes, practically melting into Becky's embrace. This woman had saved her life. Despite their differences, despite their past, Becky cared for her, deeply. Freen felt it in the way Becky held her, a gentle yet firm embrace that spoke volumes. God, she felt so good. Neither of them wanted to break the connection.
Becky closed her eyes, inhaling the soft vanilla scent that clung to Freen, holding her closer. She felt a sense of contentment, a quiet joy that made her think she could die happy right then.

"Thank you, Rebecca…" Freen whispered, her voice a soft caress against Becky's ear.

The sound of her full name, spoken in that intimate tone, sent a flutter of butterflies through Becky's stomach. "You're welcome..." she breathed, her voice barely audible

The embrace finally loosened, a reluctant parting of warmth and comfort. Both women stepped back, a shared shyness preventing them from meeting each other's eyes. Becky, however, couldn't resist a quick glance at Freen, noticing a delicate blush coloring her cheeks. A soft smile tugged at her lips.

"You really scared me, you absolute… pain," Becky teased, her voice laced with affection. The playful jab was an attempt to break the lingering tension.

Freen's brown eyes met Becky's, and a wide grin spread across her face, her dimples deepening noticeably. She appreciated Becky's attempt to lighten the mood. "My apologies," she replied, her tone sheepish. A soft chuckle escaped her lips, and Becky joined in, the shared laughter easing the lingering tension.

"So…" Freen began, pushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear and glancing towards the kitchen. "Would you like something to drink? Or… something?" she finished, her tone suggestive.

Becky's eyebrows arched, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "What exactly do you mean by 'something'?" she teased, drawing out the word.

Freen rolled her eyes, a playful smile playing on her lips. "Right," she acknowledged, nodding slightly. "I walked right into that one, didn't I? I need to remember to be more careful with my phrasing around you."

Becky let out a light, mischievous giggle, enjoying the playful banter.

"You'd like a drink," Freen stated, her voice a blend of question and assumption.

"Sure," Becky chuckled, a playful smile gracing her lips.

Freen smiled in return, turning and heading towards the kitchen. "Wine alright?" she called over her shoulder.

"Perfect," Becky replied, her eyes following Freen's movements.

As Freen busied herself with glasses and bottles in the kitchen, Becky took the opportunity to explore the apartment. She moved tentatively into the living room, her eyes scanning the space. It was clear that Freen had put her personal stamp on the decor. The walls were painted in warm, inviting tones—a soft beige, Becky decided—creating a cozy atmosphere. The couch looked plush and inviting, adorned with an array of fuzzy pillows that beckoned her to sink into their comfort. Framed photographs, snapshots of family and friends, were scattered throughout the room, each telling a silent story.

Drawn by her curiosity, Becky wandered over to a bookcase, her gaze landing on a framed photograph. She picked it up, examining it closely. It featured two police officers, one of whom was a younger Freen, clad in her crisp blue uniform. Standing beside her was a taller blonde man, also in uniform, his smile revealing dimples strikingly similar to Freen's. They stood arm-in-arm, their grins wide and carefree, their camaraderie evident. Becky recognized him instantly: Freen's brother. She'd caught a glimpse of him at the police academy graduation ten years prior, a distant memory resurfacing in her mind.