Chapter 36: S2 Wisdom: Swirling Vortex

Sophia Mahoney

The soft folds of the beige couch in the sitting area are worn. They're familiar. They fold around Sophia's body, gently embracing her. A two-man crew carries furnishings upstairs. So far, they've made five different trips.

Aden is sitting at the other end of the sofa with his laptop. His fingers pound against the keys while he types. Dark curly hair falls loosely around his tanned face. Long lashes brim his eyes. He's staring at the screen, focused on what he's composing.

Uncrossing her legs, Sophia places her bare feet flat on the floor next to her shoes and socks. Rising from the couch, she stretches her arms overhead. A warm hand takes hold of her wrist.

"Where are you going?" Aden's eyes are an intense shade of blue.

She breathes a heavy sigh. "To the bathroom." He's smothering her. She needs some space to think. "Is that okay?" Breaking down in front of people isn't something she's comfortable with. It makes her feel vulnerable.