Page 37 of August and the Night

As I move around the kitchen, the rhythmic sounds of cooking fill the air, and a sense of comfort washes over me. I'm getting used to this—being in his house, cooking together, and just enjoying each other’s company.

I set a plate of pancakes on the dining table along with some fresh fruits and two steaming cups of coffee. Glancing at the clock, I realize it's still early in the morning. It seems August needs the rest, and I'm content to let him sleep a little longer.

Sitting at the table, my thoughts drift to all the things I have to do today. I'm going to look at apartments, open up a bank account, and shop for new clothes.

I know that buying an apartment in secret from August is bad, but I don’t want him to go through the hassle of looking at apartments with me. I know August too well not to think that he wouldn’t tag along to help. I'm also certain that he thinks I'm rushing.

Lost in my thoughts, I don't notice the time passing until I hear a soft, groggy voice behind me. "Good morning," August's voice breaks through my reverie, and I turn to find him standing there, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

"Morning," I greet him with a smile, appreciating the sight of his ruffled hair and the hint of vulnerability that sleepiness brings out in him.

His gaze sweeps over the spread on the table, and a surprised expression crosses his face. "You made breakfast?"

I chuckle softly. "Yeah, thought I'd give it a try this time."

He walks over to me, his gaze lingering on me as if he's trying to read something in my expression. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," I reply, smiling brightly at him.

As we sit down to enjoy breakfast together, the sound of rain and birds fills the air, making me smile even wider, feeling content.

I can't help but playfully tease August as I sit across from him at the dining table, savoring the last bites of my pancake. "You know, Auggie," I begin mischievously, "I've noticed a pattern. You seem to have a knack for picking me up and carrying me to your room while I'm sleeping."

He gives me a sidelong glance, his expression composed. "It's not a pattern. It's a practical solution."

I arch an eyebrow, asking with curiosity. "Oh really? And what's the practical reason behind it?"

He doesn't break his serious demeanor, meeting my gaze squarely. "You get cold really easily. Your feet turn into blocks of ice. This way, you can use my body heat to stay warm."

I blink, surprised by the weird reason he gives for carrying me. I break down into fits of laughter; I'm sure this isn’t the real reason. It's toasty in the house; this seems to be what he's telling himself to justify it.

His gaze softens as he hears me laugh, his lips curving slightly. "Besides, I like having you close."

The warmth in my cheeks spreads, and I clear my throat, trying to regain my composure. "Well, if you need to have me close to sleep properly, I suppose I can't argue with that."

His tone turns more serious, and he leans forward slightly. "Actually, there's something else I've been thinking about."

I tilt my head, intrigued. "What is it?"

He holds my gaze, his eyes unwavering. "I expect my girlfriend to share my room with me, my bed as well."

I blink, the weight of his words sinking in. "Girlfriend?" I repeat; this is the first time I've heard him call me his girlfriend, and my cheeks flush.

He looks at me with a raised eyebrow. "Yes, girlfriend. Is that a problem?"

I laugh, the relief and happiness bubbling up within me. "No, not at all. It's just… I guess I've never heard you say it before."

He chuckles softly. "Well, get used to it."

"I promise I'll move my things into your room when John returns me from university today," I tell him, my hand patting his strong thigh as reassurance.

His brows furrow slightly at the mention of John's name. "John?" he repeats, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

I nod, feeling the need to explain. "Yeah, I called him yesterday to pick me up."

His scowl deepens, and I can sense his irritation. "I can drive you," he mutters, his annoyance evident. It seems that Auggie dislikes anything and anyone that could take away from the time I spend with him, I think with amusement.

Leaning down, I press a gentle kiss to his cheek, hoping to ease his irritation. "I know, but it's just for today. I haven't seen John in a while, and I kind of miss him."

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