“Get back to work,” I tease, nudging him back with a grin. The morning progresses with a lively buzz after that. There’s an influx of new volunteers for the project, which means more food to prepare and more mouths to feed; but I don’t mind. It’s nice to be back with my team, doing what we do best
Abby The pub, with its warm, amber lighting and the gentle hum of conversation, feels like a haven after the long day of work. Outside, it’s nearly frigid, but it’s as warm as can be in here thanks to the flickering fire in the fireplace. I can already picture a tall glass of beer in my hand to wa
He grins widely, oblivious to my lie. “Well, it’s great to hear,” he says. “A lot of people are happy about it. And, you know, it’s nice to see our Alpha smiling again. He’s seemed different since you came back.” The bartender’s words give me pause. I peek over my shoulder at Karl, who is deep in
Abby After wandering down a narrow, dimly lit hallway in search of Karl, I push out into an equally narrow alley. The cold night air bites at my skin, but I can hardly feel it thanks to the beer in my belly. Furrowing my brow, I look around; and then I spot him. I find him standing alone in the
Abby Pressed up against the cold stone wall, Karl and I are locked in a passionate kiss, the world around us fading into insignificance. The rough texture of the wall against my back is a stark contrast to the warmth of Karl’s body pressed unwaveringly up against mine. Our breaths mingle in the
Abby As Karl and I head wordlessly back into the pub, I’m torn between relief and a whirlwind of emotions. The warmth of the crowded room envelopes us, a stark contrast to the cold intimacy of the alley. The lively chatter and laughter of the patrons are soothing to my ears, but my mind is still r
I nod, trying to focus. “Yeah, just... a bit dizzy,” I mumble. We walk slowly, the quiet of the night enveloping us. The sounds of the pub fade into the background, replaced by the distant hum of the town. The stars above twinkle in the clear sky, their light guiding our way. “Man,” I say, my vo
Abby Reaching my room, Karl opens the door for me, his movements gentle and caring despite the uncomfortable encounter we just had. I stumble inside, the familiarity of my old bedroom bringing an unexpected sense of relief. He helps me to the edge of the bed, and I sit there, swaying slightly, sti