Chapter 2: Alone, Once Again

ELODIE'S POINT OF VIEW

The engine purred softly as I drove through the silent night. The excitement of the evening was gradually fading, giving way to a pleasant fatigue. But Isabella, sitting beside me, was still full of energy, absentmindedly touching up her lipstick in the sun visor mirror.

— By the way, drop me off at Arthur's, I'm not going home tonight, she announced nonchalantly.

I rolled my eyes. Of course. Once again.

— So, you're leaving me to sleep alone tonight, is that it? I said with a hint of amusement mixed with slight weariness.

Isabella shrugged, a mischievous smile on her lips.

— You should find yourself a boyfriend, my dear. That way, you'll never have to sleep alone again.

I let out an ironic laugh.

— Yeah, right...

The truth is, I liked being alone. I loved the tranquility of my apartment when Isabella wasn't there. But at the same time... sometimes, her absence weighed on me.

Because despite everything, my sister was the most important person in my life.

Since childhood, we had always been together. She and I, an inseparable duo. Our parents were strict, demanding, especially with me. I had to be the example, the perfect, studious, and reasonable daughter. Isabella, on the other hand, was fire, passion, independence. The perfect opposite of what they wanted.

That's why we eventually ended up moving far away from them. When I had the opportunity to study in the city, I didn't hesitate for a second to bring Isabella with me. It was a no-brainer.

But today, our lives were taking different paths. I was immersed in my studies, with a carefully mapped-out future. She was living day by day, flitting from one man to another, collecting adventures like others collect memories.

— You think too much, little sister, Isabella remarked, glancing at me from the corner of her eye. You should just enjoy life.

— I am enjoying it, in my own way, I replied, shrugging my shoulders.

She laughed, then leaned over and planted a quick kiss on my cheek.

— And that's why I love you.

I smiled, despite myself.

A few minutes later, I parked the car in front of a chic building. Isabella grabbed her bag and prepared to get out.

— Arthur, huh? I asked, raising an eyebrow. Is it the same Arthur as last time or a different one?

She shot me a playful look.

— Come on, Élodie, you know I like to vary my pleasures...

I shook my head with a laugh.

— Be careful.

— Always.

She gave me one last wink before closing the door and disappearing into the building.

ISA'S POINT OF VIEW 

Arthur was my OFFICIAL handyman. A guy with no complications, always ready to satisfy me when I needed it. Nothing more, nothing less. No expectations, no commitments, just raw pleasure without any hassle.

I didn't love him. But I loved what he did for me.

The night was cool when I got out of Élodie's car. I quickly checked my reflection in a window. My tight black dress perfectly outlined my curves, my cascading hair framed my made-up face, and my heels accentuated the arch of my hips. A smile brushed my lips. I knew the effect I was going to have on him.

I knocked on his apartment door. One second. Two. Three.

Then, it swung open suddenly, and Arthur appeared, shirtless, his jeans slightly undone. Always ready.

— Hey, gorgeous, he murmured with a sly smile.

Without waiting, I captured his lips, kissing him with a consuming desire. He responded immediately, his hands sliding over my hips, pulling me against him. A burning exchange, our breaths mingling in the darkness of the entryway.

Then, he pulled back slightly, frowning.

— You smell like alcohol, Isa.

I rolled my eyes.

— I just came from the club, idiot.

He flashed a smile before closing the door behind me.

— And you're here to seek comfort in my arms?

— Let's just say I'm here for a good service.

His gaze darkened with desire.

— Always so straightforward...

His powerful arms encircled me, and in one smooth motion, he lifted me off the ground.

A small cry escaped me as I wrapped my legs around his waist. My heels slipped and fell with a soft thud on the floor.

My already short dress rode up even more, revealing my full thighs. Arthur's hands instinctively settled on my legs, his fingers pressing against my warm skin.

He pressed me against the wall, his burning gaze locked on mine.

— Ready for your service, princess? he whispered, his raspy voice brushing against my lips.

I smiled at him, teasingly grazing my fingertips along the nape of his neck.