Iridescent

18| Apparently We Were the Villains All Along

Again, everything felt like a dream. I awoke in a daze and found Jaxton sleeping on the floor next to my bed. He only had his jacket draped over himself and I worried briefly of the temperature last night. My eyes landed on the lamp and quietly flicked it off. Jaxton probably forgot to turn the lights off last night.

I slowly, carefully, leaned over the edge and peered at his face, studying it intently. He was relaxed, his breathing was steady, and I felt... I don't know. I wasn't sure what I felt, except a relief that he was here. Was this all temporary? One day, he'll go on with his life and I'll go on with mine? Would it all be over after today? A part of me wished that it wouldn't be over, and another part of me warned me over and over again that I should stay away. Except, I felt that latter voice weaken significantly, its hold on me was slipping.

I blinked, unable to comprehend the fluttering in my chest. It couldn't be... would I ever have a crush on Jaxton? I dismissed it with a small breath, unwilling to think of the prospects. It was those effects. It's easy to get attached to those who saved your life. A police officer who took you away from danger, a firefighter who saved you from the blazing fire; it was all psychology, because it's not everyday where someone would risk their lives to save yours.

I leaned on my arm and my stare continued, my gaze always finding its way back to his face and linger there, and maybe... just maybe trace my eyes along his jaw and neck, follow the angles of his arms and fingers. My mind often flitting to what he usually does in his dorm, and during his free time... does he also like reading? Does he practice his combat skills with Yoan in the courtyard? What was his favourite colour?

I swallowed and leaned back, slipping off the bed on the other side, careful not to wake him. I tested my grip. I felt significantly better, but my fingers were weak and there was a subtle emptiness in my stomach. I grabbed my t-shirt and shorts and left for the bathroom. I washed myself up in front of the mirror. I planned on going to my classes but not training. I was going to take it easy after that incident.

When I flicked the tap off, I heard a noise outside. Jaxton was probably up. I had to mentally prepare myself to face him, a strange nervousness tightening my throat.

Put on your strong face. Put on that mischievous, teasing stare.

I walked out and allowed a grin to slowly bloom on my face. "Morning, Mr. I-strained-my-back."

He stifled a chuckle, a hand on the nape of his neck, "did you know that you talk in your sleep?"

I nodded, feinting seriousness, "oh no, I accidentally revealed my plot of cursing you. Tragedy."

He barked a laugh, "ungrateful child."

"I'll make you coffee," I offered but he rejected with a wave of his hand.

He stood up, stretching, "I'll be heading off."

I could sense my disappointment rise and I forced it down with another grin. "No coffee? Really?" Deep down, I wasn't really sure what to say. I had said my 'thanks' and he was determined to leave.

"I'll pass," he pushed back his hair and rolled his shoulders.

I softened and walked close to him, my tone serious, "I'll talk to Vel and let you know."

"Then I better leave you my number," he said, a twinkle in the eye. I flattened my look and handed him my phone. When he was done, I looked at the name he saved it under.

My balcony lover

I gave him a glare, changed the name and showed him the screen.

My worst nightmare

He chuckled, flipping over the railing, "at least I'm in your dreams."