Shattered Love

Chapter 21: One Step At A Time

Nikolei groaned as he stretched his slightly sore body. He opened his eyes slightly, adjusting his eyes to the bright surrounding. The sun rays penetrated through the curtains of the windows, filling up the room with its bright light.

He slowly got up from his position and leaned back into the plush sofa. A faint smile appeared on his lips as he remembered what had happened last night. He remembered it all, and for once in his life he felt contented after the long gloomy years of sadness he had to endure.

Last night, he had fallen asleep in Alexandra's arms as he held tightly onto her. He never want to let go, and Alexandra held him tightly in her arms trying to calm him down during his break down. He knew Alexandra had carried him to the couch in her office and laid him onto it. Slowly, his fingers grazed the soft texture of the blanket in his hand as he smiled cheekily reminiscing about the event last night.

His eyes stopped at Alexandra who was sleeping comfortably on the cushioned armchair situated in front of him. She was curled into a ball, with the yellow blanket draped over her that seemed to want to fall on the floor anytime soon. Her soft snores left her parted lips as she snuggled more into the armchair.

Nikolei loved the sight he witnessed in front of him at the moment. It reminded him of the times she used to sleep over his house when he was ill with sickness. She was there every time he was weak, and never leave his side for once. She was patient with him, and she took a great care of him until he was better from the flu or fever he was having.

As he continued to watch Alexandra, Nikolei slowly approached her and squatted down just beside the chair. He propped his chin onto his arms resting on the armrest of the chair and smiled. Alexandra's unruly red hair had him chuckled amusedly and the soft snores which escaped her parted, plump lips had his heart thumped loudly.

How he longed for her soft, sweet kisses.

Suddenly, Alexandra moved vaguely in her sleep before opening her eyes slightly. As her eyes adjusted slowly to the bright light in her office, a sight of Nikolei smiling faintly at her reached her retina. She rose her head from leaning against the seat and blinked twice.

"What time is it?" Her groggy voice filled the room.

"Almost eight, sleepy head." He teased.

She quickly got up from her seat and turned towards the window. Sighing loudly, she walked out of her office followed by Nikolei. The bakery was still closed and it usually opens at half past eight. Any minute now, Rae would unlock the entrance to the bakery like she always do.

Nikolei watched as Alexandra hastily packed her things and slung her sling bag over her shoulder. A slight panic arose in him as he stood there silently watching her every move. He cleared his throat, "Where are you going?"

"Uh, we should head home before one of my workers come. I need to freshen up before working. See you around, Mr. Machiavelli." Alexandra said as she started to head towards the back door. "Oh, before I forget. Do change the bandage on your hand, okay?"

His panic metre rose when Alexandra started to walk away from him. He was not ready for her to leave yet. Call him greedy but last night was not enough and he needed more time with her. He needed her to be with him by his side, always.

So, he did the one thing that appeared in his mind that moment.

"I-I don't have a ride." He blurted out immediately.

Alexandra turned abruptly, just as she opened the door wide open. Her left brow shot up as she parted her lips slightly. "Okay, come. I'll drive you home."

Nikolei's face morphed into a cheerful expression as he grinned widely. He took fast steps towards the awaiting Alexandra and followed her to the parking lot after she locked the back door. They got into the car together and drove away.