Page 43 of King of Obsession

The smaller shingled structure was unique. Its floor-to-ceiling window canted over the green valley, capturing spectacular views and plenty of natural light.

After lingering on the stunning dawn panorama for a beat, I attended to nature’s call and, minutes later, trekked back, my boots crunching on the frost-kissed grass.

I powered into the modest kitchen, where a coffee maker squatted next to a canister of aromatic beans.

A longing for the rich, dark brew tugged at me.

But then I glanced back at Cleo’s bedroom and cursed my craving.

The rattle and hum of the machine grinding would wake her, and she deserved this rare surrender to sleep.

Instead, I focused on the alternatives; a compromise presented itself as a tea caddy nestled among the pots and pans.

With care not to clink metal against metal, I selected a brew that promised robust flavor.

The kettle burbled, and I filled the billy tin mug with steaming water.

I dropped it in an infusion bag, and it began to steep, releasing its earthy scent into the air.

When the brew was ready, hot, black, and dark the way I preferred, I stepped out onto the veranda.

A long outdoor lounge stretched across one side of the space.

With socks muffling my footsteps, I made my way over and eased into a corner of the three-seater, crossing an ankle overa knee.

Leaning back, I sighed, luxuriating in the stillness of nature and the company of my thoughts.

The scenery was fuckin’ out of this world. The wind was crisp, filled with the subtle fragrance of pine and the fresh earthiness that followed dawn’s dew.

The tea in my hand radiated warmth, and I sipped, taking my time and letting the strong brew work its soothing magic.

The rhythmic hum of turbine blades in the distance swirled through the air, mimicking the ebb and flow of ocean waves.

In Cleo’s domain, I found a moment of pure peace.

In this quiet awakening, there was no rush to move, no immediate pull towards action or thought.

This was the embodiment of ‘la vie et bella.’

My cynical, dark heart demurred.

It wouldn’t last.

Nothing this beautiful ever did.

Chapter 9

CLEO

Sunlight warmed my closed eyelids, teasing me from sleep.

My eyes snapped open, squinting against the intrusive brightness, adrenaline coursing through me.

Heart pounding, I scrambled upright, breath quickening, confusion clouding my thoughts.

What time was it?

I spun, searching the room until the clock’s hands came into focus—9 a.m.

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