The Darkness We Share

Zak's Visit

Today greeted me with an unfamiliar surge of energy as if the universe itself conspired to make it an extraordinary day. The prospect of only half a workday ahead was a delightful notion, given that I had an even more exciting plan later in the morning – picking up Zak from the airport. With enthusiasm driving me, I meticulously selected my outfit, aiming for a balance between stylish and comfortable. My choice: a pair of sleek black jeans, hugging my curves with a casual grace, paired with a vibrant red strapless lace top, adorned with black underlining. I threw on a hoodie to blend work appropriateness with style and added my platform black booties to complete the ensemble.

In a rush of readiness, I finalized my look by trading my booties for a more relaxed pair of vans and enhancing my eyes with carefully applied eyeliner and a flourish of mascara. My hair, a cascade of waves, was elevated with a touch of sea salt spray for a playful, windswept appearance. And then, there was my treasured haunted museum necklace, the finishing touch that carried a piece of my unique identity.

The day unfolded with a tantalizingly slow pace, my eyes frequently darting towards the clock, each minute bringing me closer to 11 o'clock – the appointed time when I could escape work and venture to the airport to welcome Zak. The clock finally struck the anticipated hour, and with eager efficiency, I logged out of my workstation, my excitement now tangible.

At the airport, a surge of anticipation overwhelmed me. As I awaited Zak's arrival, I tried to steady my breathing and calm my racing heart. Amidst the excitement, I had forgotten to remove my hoodie, but quickly cast it aside into the backseat. The moments seemed to stretch as I adjusted my shoes and waited. And then, amidst the crowd, there he was, his distinctive jet-black hair a beacon. My heart leaped, and a radiant smile spread across my face as I waved. Zak's eyes locked onto mine, his face lighting up, and he picked up his pace to meet me. A rush of emotion overcame me, and before I knew it, our embrace was punctuated by a kiss – a long-awaited collision that felt electric. The embrace was a comforting cocoon, and within its intimate confines, I felt the steady rhythm of Zak's heartbeat beneath my cheek.

"I'm truly grateful you could make it," I exclaimed, my joy radiating from within.

He grinned, his eyes reflecting the sincerity of his words. "Missing out on this was never an option. I've been counting down the weeks, craving a much-needed vacation and the chance to see you again."

My heart skipped a beat at his confession, a delightful flutter of anticipation. "The feeling was entirely mutual," I admitted with a hint of reluctance, my fingers tracing an invisible pattern on the fabric of his shirt as I gently withdrew from our embrace. Zak clasped my hands in his, his gaze directed downward toward me. I could feel a warmth spreading across my cheeks as I followed the trajectory of his eyes. While he initiated with a gaze into my eyes, my attention inadvertently tracked the movement of his focus as it traversed down my form before returning to meet my gaze once again.

"Shall we proceed?" I interjected, gently disengaging from his intense gaze. Zak acknowledged with a nod, promptly gathering his belongings and accompanying me toward the trunk of my Jeep.

Our destination was 'The Brick House' a personal favorite of mine that has served as my comfort away from home, it has a rustic charm I was sure he would enjoy.  Whilst driving that way, Zak's little touches to my thigh as well as brushing his fingers through my hair, were a reassurance, an affectionate presence that only heightened my anticipation.

At the restaurant, curious glances followed us, but we managed to secure a private corner to enjoy our meal. Zak's attention remained steadfastly on me, a choice that didn't go unnoticed by our waitress who was obviously interested in him. The evening was punctuated by laughter and animated conversation, our compatibility evident with each passing moment. 

After our departure from the restaurant, I deliberately prolonged our journey to my residence, creating an opportunity for us to be alone in a uniquely vulnerable setting. Taking advantage of this moment, I proposed a modest exploration, and Zak readily expressed his enthusiasm to partake. I assumed the role of a guide, leading Zak to a concealed oasis nestled within the woods – a haven characterized by its serene ambiance and unspoiled natural splendor. This secluded location offered the ideal backdrop for a more intimate and candid conversation. Nestling into our lush surroundings, I proceeded to recount the origins of my discovery of this spot, a narrative that prompted Zak to respond with empathetic understanding.

"So you are no stranger to demoinic opression?" Zak asked, concern heavy in his eyes. 

In response to his inquiry, I met his gaze with a measure of solemnity, "Regrettably, no. I have encountered the dark influence of demonic oppression. My curiosity led me down a path of experimentation involving an Ouija board, which ultimately resulted in unsettling experiences." The memory of those events bore down on me, and I nervously bit my lip, grappling with the recollections. "Initially, I believed that this location, with its prevailing serenity and soothing energy, was the perfect setting to attempt spirit communication. However, I was grievously mistaken," I concluded, my tone laden with a mixture of apprehension and reflection.

The air held a crispness that hinted at an impending rain, the scent of it mingling with the earthy fragrance of the woods. Storm clouds gathered, casting a dramatic backdrop for our conversation. Amidst the impending rain, a sense of connection and understanding blossomed between us. It was as if we had discovered our own secret realm within the forest, a haven where time seemed to stand still.

I seized the opportunity to inquire about Zak's departure date. "How long had you planned to stay?" I asked, my voice carrying a mix of curiosity and reluctance.

"Until Monday afternoon," Zak replied a hint of playfulness in his tone.

 "So, I have three days to give you the time of your life?" I tried to hide my sorrow keeping my gaze fixed on the unfolding landscape before us. 

As the rain began to fall, sharp and cool against our skin, we exchanged knowing glances. The rumble of thunder served as a reminder that the storm was imminent. Laughing, we dashed hand in hand through the rain back to my car, our spirits undampened by the weather. Our laughter continued, the sound mingling with the rhythmic percussion of raindrops on the roof of my car. 

Zak's eyes held a mischievous glint as he pulled me into a kiss, rainwater cascading around us. At that moment, we were free – free from expectations and constraints, embraced by the exhilarating energy of the rain. Without hesitation, we indulged in the cliché, dancing together in the rain, spinning and splashing as if we were characters in a whimsical romance.

Thunder echoed, a powerful reminder of the forces of nature surrounding us. Eventually, we sought refuge in the car, the rain creating a soothing symphony against the metal roof. I stole a glance at Zak, his gaze fixed on the window, raindrops tracing intricate patterns. The moment felt surreal, a blend of reality and dream. With Zak by my side, I felt an overwhelming sense of contentment – a feeling that whispered promises of everlasting happiness.

Amidst the rain-soaked serenity, an unspoken realization settled in my heart. I was falling for Zak, and with each passing moment, the notion felt more genuine and profound. The rain seemed to cleanse away any doubts, leaving behind an unbreakable connection that defied clichés. As the journey back home continued, the rain's melody provided a soothing backdrop, echoing the rhythm of my heart and the certainty that this unique connection was worth embracing fully.