California
Anastasia was lounging comfortably on the couch, her legs tucked beneath her, a bowl of popcorn balanced on her lap as she scrolled through episodes of her favorite show.
With a week off ahead of her, she was all set to dive into some serious relaxation, soaking up the cozy vibes of her home.
Just as she was about to pop another piece of popcorn into her mouth, Noah, her husband, appeared behind her. He leaned down, planting a soft kiss on the top of her head before settling in next to her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. Instinctively, she nestled into his warmth, feeling that familiar comfort.
"What are you watching?" Noah asked, his voice filled with curiosity as he glanced at the screen.
"Catching up on my favorite show," she replied casually, tossing a piece of popcorn into her mouth.
Noah raised an eyebrow. "So, you're planning to binge all the episodes in one go?"
She turned her head slightly, giving him a playful grin. "Yes, that's the plan. Just a cozy day in."
Noah pouted. "I thought you were going to spend some time with me today."
His genuinely disappointed expression tugged at Anastasia's heartstrings. She knew their weekdays were a whirlwind, both of them busy with their own responsibilities. The weekends were their golden opportunity to connect without the usual pressures. Seeing the sadness in his eyes, she reached out, cupping his cheeks in her hands and giving them a gentle squeeze.
"You look so adorable when you pout," she teased, grinning at him.
Noah groaned. "Leave me."
But Anastasia just couldn't resist giving his cheeks another little squeeze, making him look even more ridiculous. He huffed in protest, but she caught the tiny twitch at the corner of his lips that gave away his amusement.
"How about we go on a date, Noah?" she suggested, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
Noah blinked in confusion. "What? I thought we were just going to binge-watch all day."
She shot him a playful smirk. "Well, I actually had a surprise date planned for us later, but since you're complaining..."
"I'm not complaining! I'm not a kid," he cut in, a frown creasing his forehead.
Anastasia chuckled. "So, what do you say? Will you go on a date with me?" Her expression was full of hope.
Noah held her gaze for what felt like forever before finally nodding. "I'd love to," he replied, leaning in for a kiss.
After the kissed, Anastasia hesitated, her fingers nervously fiddling with the hem of her sleeve. She knew this was the right time to bring it up, but a lump of anxiety formed in her throat.
Noticing her sudden change in mood, Noah furrowed his brows. "What's wrong?"
She took a deep breath. "I met Savannah."
At the mention of her name, Noah's body tensed, his heart racing. He tightened his grip on her hand, feeling a hitch in his breath.
"She... she found out the truth," Anastasia said, her voice barely a whisper.
Noah felt the ground shift beneath him. The day they had dreaded had finally come. He had no idea how Savannah was feeling, but one thing was clear—danger was looming over them like a dark cloud.
"And?" he asked, bracing himself for whatever was about to unfold.
"I want to go back to the States to help her if I can. I don't know how she's doing, what she's going through. I need to make sure she's okay. If he's hurt her-"
"You can't go." Noah's voice was steady, his grip on her hand tightening even more. Fear gripped him—fear for her safety.
Tears began to fill Anastasia's eyes. "She needs me. I'm all she has. Please, Noah."
He felt torn inside. He understood the monster they were up against, the kind of peril Savannah—and now possibly Anastasia—was stepping into. Losing Anastasia was simply not an option. The thought alone was unbearable.
"Please, Noah," she whispered, her voice trembling. "She needs me."
Noah squeezed his eyes shut for a moment, letting out a deep breath. He was battling with himself, but there was only one choice he could make. When he finally opened his eyes, his determination was unmistakable.
"Let's go together," he said.
Anastasia shook her head. "No, you can't. He's dangerous. You have to take care of Oliver."
His jaw tightened, his grip on her hand almost painful now. "When are you leaving?"
"Next week," she whispered.
A heavy silence enveloped the room. Noah pulled her into a tight embrace, holding her as if letting go would make her vanish. "Take good care of Oliver," she murmured against his chest.
They held each other for what felt like an eternity, the weight of their unspoken fears pressing down on them. The storm was approaching, and they had no choice but to confront it together.
Author's Note :
Thankyou for reading<3
Have a good day/night<3<3