Something About Us

A week before Heather was scheduled to return to her aunt and uncle's home, Lux released their highly anticipated next album. The promotional whirlwind that followed was relentless, a dizzying schedule of interviews, performances, and fan events. Rhys, caught in the eye of the storm, found himself stretched thin, unable to assist Heather with packing their belongings. Heather, ever resourceful, took charge, meticulously organizing their shared possessions, sending Rhys's things ahead to his own residence while carefully packing her own.

Some of Heather's more personal belongings were picked up by her aunt, Marjorie, a few days prior, easing the burden of the move. Finally, the day arrived when Heather checked out of the hotel, a bittersweet moment marking the end of an unexpected chapter in her life.

Upon arriving at her aunt and uncle's home, Heather's breath hitched. Stepping into her room was like stepping into a dream. The space had been transformed into a mini-apartment, the air filled with the comforting scent of freshly painted wood and new carpet. Eight towering bookshelves, four on each side, lined the walls, their empty shelves beckoning for her collection. A plush, velvet couch and a polished coffee table sat invitingly in the center, bathed in the warm glow of a nearby lamp. Her vanity, study table, and bed had been rearranged, creating distinct zones within the room, each thoughtfully designed to enhance comfort and functionality.

A wave of pure joy washed over her. "Thank you, Auntie Maggie and Uncle Tony! I love it!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement. She hugged and kissed them both, her heart overflowing with gratitude. "I can't wait to fill these shelves with my books!" The anticipation of organizing her beloved books filled her with a sense of cozy contentment.

Two months later, the rhythm of life had settled into a comfortable routine. One morning, during breakfast, Tony cleared his throat, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Honey, the company's organizing a trip in three days. Three days, two nights. 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.

"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.

"She'll be Rhys's plus one. He talked to me yesterday after this was announced," Tony explained. "He said the rooms would not be a problem."

"Oh… Is he sure?" Heather asked, her voice laced with a hint of uncertainty. "Wouldn't he want to bring his sister or parents?" A spark of excitement flickered within her, but she tried to suppress it, not wanting to impose.

"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.

"I see," Heather said, a pause settling between them. "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. This will be my first time going to Opal City, she thought, a thrill of anticipation coursing through her. While contemplating what to pack, she realized she didn't own a swimsuit. 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.

With a newfound sense of urgency, she decided to head to the mall. It took her a while to decide, but she eventually selected four swimsuits: a classic black and white two-piece, a chic white one-shoulder one-piece, a vibrant red two-piece, and a daring black and white deep V-cut one-piece. She also picked out two elegant cover-ups, one white and one blue, envisioning herself lounging by the pool.

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

As she turned the corner onto their street, she spotted Rhys, standing beside a lamppost, holding an umbrella. 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.

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

Rhys walked towards her, his smile widening, and grabbed her shopping bags, his touch light and reassuring. "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.

"Hmmm... Why indeed," Rhys said, his voice laced with amusement. He put his arm around her shoulders, his touch familiar and comforting, and started to guide her home. He then noticed the drink in Heather's hand. "Hey, is that from the new coffee shop near the bus stop?"

"Yeah, wanna try?" Heather offered the drink, her eyes sparkling.

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

"Really? I think it's just right," Heather said, taking another sip as they continued walking towards her home.

Unbeknownst to them, a figure emerged from a nearby house, heading towards the laundry place at the end of the street. Their eyes widened as they recognized Rhys, standing beneath the lamppost. They quickly pulled out their phone, snapping photos. Rhys without a mask! This is huge! Then Heather arrived, and Rhys put his arm around her shoulders, even taking a sip from her drink. 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. But then, their phone screen went black. Damn it! I should have charged my phone earlier. Anyway, I'll share this later after I finish this laundry.