Page 105 of Closer

Chapter 31

Lilian

When he said we’re taking a course, I didn’t think he meant this.

We’re standing in front of a door with a sign that reads ‘Intro to Sewing - Beginner Level.’ Sebastian’s hand rests on the small of my back, guiding me inside.

The room is set up with several long tables, each with its own sewing machine. A few other people are already seated, chatting amongst themselves. My palms grow slick with sweat, and I rub them against my jeans. What the hell am I doing here?

“Sebastian.” I whirl to face him, ready to bolt. “I don’t think this is a good idea.”

“Relax, princess. It’ll be fun.”

Fun. Right. Because the last time I sat in front of a sewing machine went so well. The memory of blood welling from my fingertip makes my stomach churn.

He must sense my unease because he hauls me to his side. “Hey. I’ve got you, okay? We’ll take it slow.”

I want to believe him. Want to trust that he won’t let me fall apart again. But the monsters linger, ready to drag me under at any moment.

“Welcome!” A petite woman with a sleek bob bustles over, beaming. “You must be the couple who booked last minute. I’m Margo, your instructor.”

Couple? Last minute? I shoot him a glare.

“That’s us,” he says smoothly. “Sebastian and Lil. We’re excited to learn.”

“Wonderful! Let’s get you settled then, shall we?” Margo leads us to a pair of machines in the back. Sebastian’s arm clings to my waist, preventing escape.

I drop into the chair, leg bouncing, fingers twisting in my lap. I can’t do this. I can’t.

Sebastian sits beside me, stopping my leg with his hand. “Relax, princess. I’m right here.”

The instructor claps her hands to get everyone’s attention. “Welcome, everyone! I’m so glad you could join us today. We’re going to start with the basics—threading your machine and sewing a straight line.”

I eye the sewing machine warily.

She launches into an explanation of the machine parts, the different stitches, how to thread the needle. “Alright, let’s get started!” Her voice is far too chipper for the dread coiling in my gut. “First, make sure your machine is plugged in and the power is on.”

Sebastian reaches over, flicking the switch. The machine whirs to life, and I flinch at the sound, my heart rate spiking.

I can’t do this. I can’t, I can’t, I can’t—

“Lil. Look at me.” His hands find my face, tilting my chin up until our eyes meet. “Breathe. Nice and slow.”

I focus on the speck of yellow within the green of his eyes, like a warm sunrise just behind the forest, mirroring the heat of his palms against my skin. He’s here. I’m not alone.

“That’s it.” His thumbs stroke over my cheekbones, grounding me. “You’re safe. I promise.”

I nod.

“Good.” He holds my gaze longer than needed before releasing me, turning his attention back to the instructor.

“Next, we’re going to thread the machine. Watch closely, now…”

I try to concentrate on her words and the step-by-step process. But my hands are shaking as I reach for the spool of thread, my fingers foreign and uncoordinated.

Suddenly, Sebastian scoops me up, settling me into his lap.

“What are you doing?” I attempt to squirm away, but his arm secures me in place, preventing any movement.

---