They say time heals all wounds, but what about the scars that linger? The memories that haunt your every waking moment? For me, time only deepened the wounds, leaving an aching void within. The once vibrant town of Ravenswood was now a distant memory, a reminder of the darkness that had consumed us all. My classmates had scattered across the country, but fate had other plans – they all converged in Auroraville, a bustling city filled with promise and new beginnings. Or so it seemed.
As I stepped off the bus, the warm sun cast a golden glow over the city. I took a deep breath, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wafting through the air, enticing my senses. My yellow sundress fluttered in the breeze as I made my way through the crowded streets, my eyes scanning the horizon for a familiar face. Logan Blackwood's café stood out among the rest – a charming little place that seemed frozen in time. I had confided in Logan about my dreams of opening a café, back when life was simpler. Back when friendship wasn't a luxury I could afford.
Logan had it all now – a thriving business, a beautiful family with Avery, my former best friend. A pang of jealousy stabbed at my heart, but I pushed it aside. I wasn't here to rekindle old friendships or reminisce about the past. I was here for answers. Answers to the questions that had haunted me for a decade. Why did they turn on me? Why did they destroy my reputation, my life? The sound of children's laughter carried on the wind, and I spotted Logan's little ones, playing outside the café. My heart skipped a beat as Logan himself appeared, his piercing blue and chiseled features. Time stood still. The world around me melted away, leaving only the two of us, suspended in a sea of memories.
The horns of cars blasted, taking me out of dreamland. I see Logans son running across the street towards the side of the road I was in. I soon realized what he was running after. My sunhat that was blown off by the wind. In seconds I see a panicked father running after his son with his daughter in his hands. He arrives to my side of the road and shouts at his son, scolding him. He notices me.
Logan's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze intensifying as he taking in my features. I hold my breath, wondering if he recognizes me. But his expression remain neutral, a hint of curiosity flickering in his eyes.
"My name is Logan, you are?" he asks finally, his deep voice sending a shiver down my spine. I feel a pang of disappointment that he didn't remember me, but I quickly push it aside. This was what I wanted, after all – to fly under the radar, to observe and gather the truth without arousing suspicion.
"Victoria. They seem to cause you trouble, and it seems like you're a very busy man." I said this while letting go of his hand. His hand was warm and big, it engulfed mine.
"Yeah, I've been searching for a full-time maid and the ones I hire ended up leaving. They never provided a reason why. The only thing they would say is I'm tired! and run away. Oh, and I think this belongs to you." He said this while giving me my hat.
I take the hat from him, our fingers brushing against each other. I felt a spark of electricity, but I ignored it.
"I'm free, I'll take care of the kids and more... I've been searching for a job and a place to stay. I took care of my siblings who were around their ages before. It wouldn't be much of a struggle."
Logan's eyes widened slightly, his gaze lingering on mine. I could sense his interest, his hesitation.
He wanted to ask me more questions, but his phone rang, shrill in the silence. He glanced at the screen, his expression changing from curiosity to annoyance.
"I'll discuss things with my wife. Just make sure you call me then I'll save your contact details. In the meantime, let's..." He trailed off, answering his phone call.
I nodded, watching as he walked away with his children. I felt a sense of satisfaction, of relief. Phase one of my plan was complete. Now, all I had to do was wait.
I watched as Logan's car disappeared into the distance, a mix of emotions swirling inside me. Excitement, nervousness, and a hint of guilt. My plan was unfolding, but I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was walking into unknown territory.
I headed towards the convenience store I'd spotted earlier. My temporary rental was nearby, but I needed a few essentials before settling in. As I entered the store, I was greeted by the hum of fluorescent lights and the aroma of fresh coffee. I grabbed a basket and began browsing the aisles, my mind still preoccupied with Logan and the encounter that had just transpired.
As I reached for the last no-sugar Coca-Cola in the fridge, a tattooed hand snatched it simultaneously. I spun around, startled, and found myself face-to-face with a towering figure. His intense gaze seemed to bore into my soul as we locked eyes.
I felt a shiver run down my spine, but my curiosity got the better of me. I took in his chiseled features, piercing black eyes, and the intricate tattoos covering his arms and hands. His accent was thick and captivating as he broke the silence.
"It seems like there is only one left." I stumbled over my words, feeling like a nervous teenager again.
Ye...yeah, right umm..." He handed me the Coca-Cola, his fingers brushing against mine. I felt a spark of electricity and butterflies forming in my stomach, but it was quickly overshadowed by my disappointment upon noticing his ring.
"I like your hair, it suits you." Handing me the cola and I took it.
"I like your ring, it suits you." He stares at his ring, and he places his hand in his pocket.
"Right, I'm Ivan, I just moved here." He extends his other hand for me to shake and I do.
"Victoria."
"Victoria... nice name." He says my name like he didn't believe me. He released my hand and he left. Just like that. He never smiled nor showed any emotion except the one of disappointment. He looked scary and someone you shouldn't mess with, but I was already curious. Who is this man?