Something About Us-Chapter 16: Caught in the Sunlight

A week before Heather was scheduled to return to her aunt and uncle's home, Lux released their highly anticipated next album, "Dawn of Time." The promotional whirlwind that followed was relentless, a dizzying schedule of interviews, performances, and fan events, each day blurring into the next.

Rhys, caught in the eye of the storm, found himself stretched thin, his energy reserves depleted, unable to assist Heather with packing their belongings.

Heather, ever resourceful and independent, took charge, meticulously organizing their shared possessions, sending Rhys's things ahead to their group's residence in neatly labeled boxes, while carefully packing her own belongings in her favorite floral-patterned suitcases.

Some of Heather's more personal belongings, including her extensive collection of books and framed photographs, were picked up by her aunt, Marjorie, a few days prior, easing the burden of the move and adding a touch of familiar comfort to the transition.

Finally, the day arrived when Heather checked out of the hotel, a bittersweet moment marking the end of an unexpected Chapter in her life, a Chapter filled with both anxiety and unexpected warmth.

Upon arriving at her aunt and uncle's home, Heather's breath hitched, a gasp of pure delight escaping her lips. Stepping into her room was like stepping into a dream, a meticulously crafted sanctuary.

The space had been transformed into a mini-apartment, the air filled with the comforting scent of freshly painted wood and new carpet, a subtle fragrance of home.

Eight towering bookshelves, four on each side, lined the walls, their empty shelves beckoning for her collection, promising countless hours of literary adventures.

A plush, velvet couch, its deep emerald hue inviting relaxation, and a polished coffee table, its surface gleaming under the soft light, sat invitingly in the center, bathed in the warm glow of a nearby lamp, its shade casting a cozy ambiance.

Her vanity, study table, and bed had been rearranged, creating distinct zones within the room, each thoughtfully designed to enhance comfort and functionality, a testament to her family's love and understanding.

A wave of pure joy washed over her, a surge of gratitude and excitement. "Thank you, Auntie Maggie and Uncle Tony! I love it!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement, her eyes sparkling with delight.

She hugged and kissed them both, her heart overflowing with gratitude, her laughter echoing through the room. "I can't wait to fill these shelves with my books!"

The anticipation of organizing her beloved books, arranging them in perfect order, filled her with a sense of cozy contentment, a feeling of finally being home.

Two months later, the rhythm of life had settled into a comfortable routine, a familiar cadence of daily activities.

One morning, during breakfast, as the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, Tony cleared his throat, a hint of excitement in his voice, a twinkle in his eye.

"Honey, the company's organizing a trip in three days. It'll be for three days and two nights at a resort in Opal City. Would you like to come?"

"Where will you be staying this time?" Marjorie asked, her brow slightly furrowed, mindful of previous company outings, the memories of cramped quarters and noisy nights still fresh in her mind.

"Leon has a friend who owns a beautiful resort in Opal City. They're inviting everyone, and we can bring a plus one. They've assured us that rooms won't be a problem, each one can comfortably accommodate three or four people."

"Sure, but what about Heather? We can't just leave her here. And what of the rooms?" Marjorie asked, her eyes darting between Tony and Heather, her concern evident in her voice.

"She'll be Rhys's plus one. He talked to me yesterday after this was announced," Tony explained, a gentle smile spreading across his face, his eyes filled with reassurance.

"He said the rooms would not be a problem. He can room in with us, while the other members of Lux will occupy another room."

"Oh... Is he sure?" Heather asked, her voice laced with a hint of uncertainty, a flicker of surprise in her eyes. "Wouldn't he want to bring his sister or parents?"

A spark of excitement flickered within her, a warm sensation spreading through her chest, but she tried to suppress it, not wanting to impose, her sense of propriety kicking in.

"He said his sister is not in the country right now, so she's out of the question. And either parents wouldn't come without the other, so..." Tony shrugged, a gentle smile on his face, his eyes filled with understanding.

"I see," Heather said, a pause settling between them, the clinking of cutlery and the soft murmur of conversation filling the silence. "I'll send him a message, then. That I'll be his plus one."

After breakfast, Heather composed a message to Rhys, her fingers hovering over the keyboard, the screen illuminating her thoughtful expression.

This will be my first time going to Opal City, she thought, a thrill of anticipation coursing through her, a sense of adventure stirring within her.

While contemplating what to pack, she realized she didn't own a swimsuit, a sudden wave of panic washing over her. She rarely frequented resorts or beaches, so the need had never arisen.

Now, faced with the prospect of swimming alongside trainees and artists from Starlight Entertainment, she knew she couldn't wear her everyday clothes, the thought of it sending a shiver of embarrassment down her spine.

With a newfound sense of urgency, she decided to head to the mall, the prospect of shopping filling her with a renewed sense of purpose.

It took her a while to decide, browsing through countless racks and displays, but she eventually selected four swimsuits: a classic black and white two-piece, its timeless design promising elegance, a chic white one-shoulder one-piece, its minimalist style exuding sophistication, a vibrant red two-piece, its bold color radiating confidence, and a daring black and white deep V-cut one-piece, its daring design promising a touch of glamour.

She also picked out two elegant cover-ups, one white and one blue, envisioning herself lounging by the pool, the soft fabric billowing in the gentle breeze.

On her way home, she spotted a new coffee shop, its aroma of roasted beans wafting through the air, a tempting invitation. She ordered an iced caramel macchiato to go, the sweet, creamy drink a refreshing treat for her walk, the cool liquid a welcome relief from the midday heat.

As she turned the corner onto their street, she spotted Rhys, standing beside a lamppost, holding an umbrella, his figure silhouetted against the bright sunlight.

The midday sun was blazing, its heat radiating off the pavement, yet he stood patiently, a warm smile spreading across his face as he saw her, his eyes lighting up with genuine joy.

"Hey you. What are you doing there? Are you even allowed to go out?" Heather asked, her eyes widening in surprise, her voice laced with concern.

Rhys walked towards her, his smile widening, and grabbed her shopping bags, his touch light and reassuring, his fingers brushing against hers. "I was waiting for you. Besides, there's no one around, so I doubt anyone would notice me."

"Ok, but uhmm... Why?" Heather asked hesitantly, her brow furrowed, her eyes filled with curiosity.

"Hmmm... Why indeed," Rhys said, his voice laced with amusement, a playful glint in his eyes. He put his arm around her shoulders, his touch familiar and comforting, and started to guide her home, his footsteps echoing on the pavement.

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He then noticed the drink in Heather's hand, its condensation dripping down the side. "Hey, is that from the new coffee shop near the bus stop?"

"Yeah, wanna try?" Heather offered the drink, her eyes sparkling, a playful smile on her lips.

Rhys didn't take the drink but lowered his head slightly to take a sip, his lips brushing against the straw. "It's good. But isn't it a bit too sweet?"

"Really? I think it's just right," Heather said, taking another sip, the sweet caramel flavor lingering on her tongue, as they continued walking towards her home, their conversation flowing easily.

Unbeknownst to them, a figure emerged from a nearby house, heading towards the laundry place at the end of the street, their eyes widening as they recognized Rhys, standing beneath the lamppost, his face clearly visible.

They quickly pulled out their phone, snapping photos, their fingers trembling with excitement.

Rhys without a mask! This is huge! Should I go to him and ask for a photo? Will he agree though?

Then Heather arrived, and Rhys put his arm around her shoulders, even taking a sip from her drink.

What the? Who is this girl? Is she his secret girlfriend? This is going to break the internet!

They frantically snapped more photos, their fingers trembling with excitement, their heart pounding against their ribs. But then, their phone screen went black, the sudden darkness a cruel twist of fate.

Damn it! I should have charged my phone earlier. Anyway, I'll share this later after I finish this laundry.