It took a while until she was able to prescribe the warmth. Until she remembered where she was. And, more importantly, who she was lying on.
Alex awoke with her head on Eric's bare chest, both an arm and leg wrapped around him. Eric had one arm around her and, judging by his steady breathing, he was still fast asleep. At least he wouldn't notice her practically clinging to him. Alex blushed at the thought and carefully released herself from the position. She turned to the other side and was just wondering whether she could dare to get up without waking him when Eric turned around and pulled her close without saying a word. Alex waited wide-eyed, but seconds later Eric had already fallen asleep again, Alex in his arms. She didn't dare to move and to her surprise, she didn't want to.
All the thoughts, the doubt and fears, the frustration and anger, they had all fallen silent. She moved back a little, pressing her back against his chest and with the rhythmic sound of his breathing, she fell asleep again.
When she woke up again, Eric was gone, which Alex was quite thankful for. Having sex with Eric was one thing, but cuddling with him? That was a whole other story. She pushed the thoughts about last night away and got up to get a shower.
Sleeping in had given her some much-needed rest. Even though it was Sunday, Eric had some meetings to attend according to the note he had left in the kitchen. Alex took advantage of this and made herself a nice breakfast. It was nice to cook again. The kitchen was bathed in a soft, warm light and the refrigerator's gentle hum calmed her as she washed the dishes.
Alex stood in the kitchen, a glass of water in her hand when Eric got back.
They nodded to each other as a greeting. Eric wore a tight black shirt that framed his well-trained body. Alex lost herself in the sight for a moment. Memories came pelting down on her like warm summer rain.
She only noticed she was staring as Eric cleared his throat. His eyes were twinkling mischievously as Alex refocused and looked him in the eyes.
She turned around to the sink to collect herself. Alex could hear Eric's steps approaching her and moments later, his warm breath brushed against her neck, sending shivers down her spine.
"Stay away from me, or I will use this against you," Alex teased, holding up the water tap like a weapon.
With a hint of amusement in his voice, Eric responded, "You wouldn't dare."
This time, Alex grinned mischievously. "Try me."
She turned quickly and squeezed the water tap, sending a sudden stream of water in Eric's direction. It splashed against his chest before she immediately made a run for it. She couldn't suppress the grin that played on her lips as she found shelter behind the dining table. For a brief moment, she revelled in her small victory. But that moment was short-lived. The look that crossed Eric's face was enough to send a chill down her spine. He didn't utter a word, but the promise of retribution was clear.
"Wait, wait, wait, wait," Alex laughed as Eric came towards her. Their playful chase quickly began as they darted around the living room, playing a game of cat and mouse. Alex found refuge once again behind the dining table as Eric circled from the opposite side.
"Before you do anything inconsiderate, just hear me out," she panted, her voice laced with laughter.
"I will hear out your apology while I soak you in the shower," Eric countered.
"No, wait, wait, wait. I think we can both agree you had that coming," Alex replied, her laughter filling the room.
He caught her in his arms, swept her off her feet, and carried her to the bathroom. She squealed and laughed, still saying, "Wait, wait, wait," as they playfully jostled. In the bathroom, their duel continued, water splashing and laughter echoing off the tiled walls. Eric tried to exact his revenge for getting soaked, while Alex attempted to wrest the showerhead from his grasp.
By the time they were done, both were completely drenched, hair clinging to their faces and clothes sticking to their skin. They stood face to face, panting and smiling, a sense of exhilaration in the air. Little strings seemed to tuck on her stomach and Alex took a small step closer, her heart racing, as she looked up in those ice-blue eyes.
Their lips were just inches apart. She could feel his breath on her face. Her heart was pounding, her hands sweaty.
But then Eric abruptly turned away, breaking the spell. Without another word, he walked away, leaving Alex standing there, her heart pounding and her mind spinning.