Alliyah

She heard the low murmurs and peered behind her. The sight of lovely Rayne kneeling down to play with her adorable dog melted her heart like butter. She couldn’t stop herself from smiling as the water boiled in the kettle.

Ocean and Colson emerged from the bathroom at the same time, steam coming out of the door.

“I just have to have breakfast, and then we can go.” Ocean said, putting on a leather jacket, before realizing it was a bit tight on him and switching with Colson.

Rayne rolled her eyes, drawing herself up and getting back to her more tense personality, sticking her hands inside the pockets of her jacket.

“‘Sorry, Rayne.’ would also be appropriate.” Alliyah crossed her arms.

“Right. I’m sorry I made you wait, Rayne.”

“That’s a good boy.” Alliyah joked. The other girl didn’t seem to care.

Blue walked in, using his own key:

“Good morning, Yankees, I brought us coffee.”

“I made coffee.” Alliyah pouted her full lips.

“How do I say this, sweets…? Your coffee is made to your own taste-”

“It’s garbage.” Malcolm stated obnoxiously and grabbed a cup from Blue.

“Blue, you and me, balcony, now.” She glared after Malcolm’s comment. “Everyone else, I made scrambled eggs and fried eggs, so eat whatever you want. Rayne, your tea’s on the counter.”

Alliyah used a small glass to water a terrarium of succulents she had on her balcony. Her brow furrowed as she was lost in her thoughts, staring at the tiny plants.

“What’s wrong?”

Blue’s dark green eyes focused on her. She snapped out of her own head and started pacing around on the small balcony instead.

“We should’ve met on the rooftop, man. I need more space to freak out in peace!”

“Alliyah, inhale.” He put his hand on her shoulder. “What do you want to talk about?”

“I’m going to try to go straight to the subject…” The way she spoke, pronounced each word, made it sound the opposite. “Would you… Really make sure Lamar gets fed if I choose to quit interior designing? Oh, no, I’m gonna have a heart attack!” She clutched her own chest.

“Yes, yes, Alliyah, yes!” Blue held both of her shoulders.

“Really?” She suddenly stopped. Her eyes widened.

“Yes, listen, I know you. I know you’re not my friend because my last name’s Blue. I know it’s not because of my money or whatever. You didn’t really ask, I offered you the other day. Because I love you and I want you and Lamar to be safe and happy.”

Alliyah hugged him tight, and he held her close.