After a restless night filled with haunting nightmares, Iris found herself standing at the threshold of a new day. She gazed out of her bedroom window, observing as the dark blue sky gradually transformed into a lighter hue, the stars fading away as the sun emerged on the eastern horizon. Sleep had eluded her, the vivid nightmares always haunting her thoughts, each one more terrifying than the last.
Determined to shake off the remnants of her troubled night, Iris rose from her bed and made her way to the bathroom. She felt a sense of dirtiness clinging to her, a residue of tears and sweat that had dried on her body during the night. Under the refreshing water of the shower, she washed away the physical and emotional remnants of the past hours. Stepping out, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror, and a grimace twisted her reflection. Her eyes were swollen, puffy, and red, her cheeks pale, and her hair a tangled mess. She attempted to salvage her appearance, combing her hair and pinching her cheeks to bring a touch of color to her face, although her eyes still betrayed the weight of her recent anguish.
Dressing in light clothes suitable for work, Iris resolved to bring life back to her desolate surroundings. She planned to repaint and remove the dreary objects that haunted her home, starting with her mother's room. The owl picture, an eerie presence in the living room, was among the first to be banished. Iris craved a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that would dispel the sense of foreboding that permeated the house.
Her empty stomach growled, a reminder that nourishment was needed. Iris prepared a light breakfast, making a mental note to replenish her dwindling groceries through online shopping. While her isolation left her perpetually lonely and bored, she had adapted to a life of virtual connection, filling her days with online classes, chats with anonymous companions, and the pursuit of various skills and creative endeavors. Her proficiency with computers had even led her to pursue a major in computer engineering during her online college studies. The internet had become her lifeline, offering glimpses of a world she yearned to experience firsthand.
Savoring a hearty breakfast of pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs, and coffee, Iris replenished her energy for the tasks ahead. With paint supplies in hand, she embarked on transforming her mother's room. Memories of the previous night flooded her thoughts, tears welling in her eyes as she recalled the events that unfolded. The torment of not knowing what led to her mother's mental illness weighed heavily on her. She questioned whether her actions could have saved her, but found no answers in the sea of grief. Determined to channel her pain into a positive change, Iris set to work, stripping away the remnants of her mother's existence and infusing the space with vivid hues.
By noon, the transformation of her mother's room was complete. Iris stood in the doorway, surveying the newfound vibrancy with a mix of satisfaction and sorrow. The weight of her mother's absence pressed upon her, intensifying her longing for connection and understanding. Moving from room to room, she continued her mission, breathing life into the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The apartment, though modest in size, was gradually shedding its desolation and embracing a newfound radiance.
Through the window, Iris caught sight of children playing in the front yard of the neighboring house. Their laughter and carefree antics momentarily lifted her spirits, reminding her of the simple joys that awaited beyond her self-imposed boundaries. She observed their playful interactions, a boy and a girl engaged in a game of chase, their sibling bond evident in their shared laughter. It stirred a longing within her, a yearning for the warmth of human connection.
As the children were called inside by their mother, Iris continued her labor of love. She finished repainting the living room and proceeded to the dining room, fueled by a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. Suddenly, the doorbell rang, interrupting her thoughts. She knew it was Lily, her only acquaintance in the neighborhood who made an effort to check on her despite her busy schedule running a coffee shop. Iris opened the door, offering Lily a sweet smile.
Lily entered with a basket in her hand, radiating warmth and kindness. Concern etched on her face, she remarked on Iris's improved appearance, contrasting with the distress of the previous night. Iris accepted the basket, grateful for the thoughtfulness. Lily's genuine care touched her deeply, evoking emotions she was unaccustomed to. With a bashful smile, Iris thanked her and acknowledged her struggle with shyness in the face of such kindness.
Pleased with the changes Iris had made to the house, Lily praised her efforts and inquired about her artistic abilities. Iris shared her motivation for the transformations, explaining how the house needed a fresh start to prevent it from becoming a constant reminder of her mother's absence. Though her heart still ached at the mention of her mother, Lily's words offered a glimmer of hope and encouragement.
After bidding farewell to Lily, Iris set the basket of food on the table. Recognizing her own disheveled state, she decided to freshen up with another shower. As the clock approached 7 pm, she sat on the living room couch, laptop in hand, seeking solace in the distraction of the Kardashians' latest series, trying to calm her jittering nerves before her midnight expedition.
Lost in the world of reality television, Iris realized with a start that it was already 11:30 pm. The impending moment of truth approached, and she resolved to go through with her plan. Adorning a gray hooded sweater over her t-shirt, she retrieved her coat and boots, prepared for the possibility of a chilly night. At the stroke of midnight, Iris mustered her courage, opened the door, and ventured out into the quiet streets, her heart pounding with a mix of trepidation and excitement.
YOU ARE READING
Intense Desire
Romance"I want you." he said voicing his thoughts. She looked at him innocently. "I'm here." she answered confused. Her innocence only fueled his desire. He took threatening steps to her as she stepped backed until her back hit the wall. With him so close...
