Chapter 4: An Unexpected Call

ELODIE'S POINT OF VIEW

Lying on my bed, the silence of the night enveloped me, gently rocking me after that lively evening. My thoughts drifted, still infused with the bursts of music, bright lights, and the slightly bitter taste of cocktails on my lips.

Then, suddenly, my phone vibrated on the nightstand.

I frowned slightly as an unknown number appeared on the screen. Hesitant, I let it ring for a few seconds before answering.

— Hello?

— Good evening, Elodie.

A deep, calm voice resonated in my ear, warm and slightly charming.

I sat up a little, leaning my back against the pillow. This voice… I knew it.

— Samuel? I asked, an imperceptible smile brushing my lips.

— In the flesh… or at least, in the call and in the voice.

A small laugh escaped me. I hadn’t expected him to call me so soon.

— I thought you were the type to wait a few days before contacting a girl.

— It depends on the girl. Some are worth taking your time, others deserve not to be kept waiting a single second.

I rolled my eyes, amused. Charming and self-assured.

— And which category do I fall into?

— Guess.

His answer made me smile despite myself. He knew how to play with words, and he seemed to love doing it.

— So, you took my number just to call me a few hours later?

— I simply wanted to know if you made it home safely.

A light, pleasant silence stretched between us. His attention surprised me.

— That’s nice. Yes, I got home intact. No bad pick-up artists this time.

— Fortunately. His voice softened. But if you do encounter any, you know who to call.

A barely noticeable shiver ran down my skin. He had that protective, assured tone that was somehow irresistible.

— I’ll keep the offer in mind, I murmured.

— Do better than that. Grant me a dinner this week.

My heart beat slightly faster. Direct, straightforward. He didn’t beat around the bush.

— Are you always this spontaneous with women you’ve just met?

— Only with those who intrigue me.

A moment of silence hung between us, charged with an almost palpable tension. I could have said no, or let him believe I needed to think it over. But something about him made me want to know more.

— Alright.

— Perfect. I’ll send you the details. Good night, Elodie.

— Good night, Samuel.

I hung up, the phone still pressed against my ear for a few seconds after the call ended.

A smile brushed my lips. Samuel…

This week was shaping up to be interesting.

ISA'S POINT OF VIEW

I slowly traced the contours of his torso with my fingertips, savoring this tranquility after the storm. His steady breath caressed my bare shoulder, and a satisfied smile floated on my lips. The night had been as intense as it was predictable. Arthur knew how to handle things, and I… I had simply let my body crave what it wanted. No attachments, no lies. Just pleasure.

But time was ticking. I gently pushed the blanket aside and sat up, allowing the cool air to brush against my bare skin. Arthur groaned as he felt the emptiness beside him.

— Already up? he murmured in a husky voice.

I glanced at him while slipping into my dress, finding my heels scattered on the floor.

— I have a sister waiting for me.

He gave a lazy smile, stretching out fully. His muscular silhouette was a delight to observe, but I had other things to do.

— You know where to find me, Isa, he said before closing his eyes again.

I didn’t respond. He knew I would come back. Maybe not tonight, but another night, when the urge to escape loneliness struck me.

The morning chill hit my face as I stepped out of the building. The world seemed wide awake already, while I could only think about getting back to my bed.

When I finally arrived at our apartment, I knocked softly on the door. A few seconds passed before Elodie opened up, her hair disheveled, her face still marked by sleep.

She squinted at me upon seeing me.

— You’re an early riser… she mumbled, her voice still groggy.

I smiled, amused. I knew she didn’t like being woken up too early.

— Let’s just say I had a good night.

She yawned, rubbing her eyes before leaning against the door.

— You slept somewhere else again… she remarked with a hint of reproach.

I shrugged.

— You know me.

She shook her head before letting me in.

— One day, Isa, you’ll want something more than one-night stands.

I smiled as I dropped my bag on the couch.

— Maybe. But not today.

Elodie sighed before closing the door behind me. She was my anchor, the one who still believed in love and deeper things. I was content with immediate pleasure. And for now, that suited me just fine.

ELODIE'S POINT OF VIEW

I let Isabelle flop down on the couch while I headed toward the bathroom. Another night where she had preferred to slip away, another night where I had slept alone in this apartment too big for one PERSON. But well, that was Isa. Indomitable, elusive. And despite everything, I loved her just the way she was. I looked at myself in the mirror, grimacing at my still tired face. My messy black hair framed my delicate face, and my dark circles betrayed my lack of sleep. Yet, I was determined not to look careless today.

I turned on the tap and let the cold water run between my fingers before splashing it on my face. Instantly, the freshness woke me up. After a quick shower, I took the time to dry my hair and apply a light layer of makeup to hide the signs of fatigue. Natural, but polished. That was always my style.

Today, I had classes at the university, and not just any classes. In my seventh year of management and accounting, I was finally reaching my goal. This year was my thesis defense year. Seven years of hard work, sleepless nights spent on my courses, sacrifices.

I was proud of my journey. I had worked harder than anyone to get here. Studying away from my parents, managing a often complicated daily life, holding on when sometimes I wanted to give up everything… But today, I knew it was all worth it. I headed to my closet and put on a flowing white blouse, tucking it into a high-waisted black pant. Simple, elegant, professional. I added a pair of black heels and a matching leather bag.

A final look in the mirror. My serious expression, my delicate features, and my eyes shining with determination.

Ready. I grabbed my laptop and books before stepping out of my room. Isa was still sprawled on the couch, her phone in hand.

— You’re not going to sleep a bit? I asked while putting on my jacket.

She shrugged, looking nonchalant.

— Not tired.

I rolled my eyes.

— Of course…

She looked at me for a moment before smiling.

— Don’t work too hard, little sister.

I smiled back, grabbing my keys.

— And you, try not to get lost in the sheets of a stranger today.

She burst out laughing, and so did I. Despite our differences, we were bound by an unbreakable love.

I headed toward the door, giving her one last look.

— See you tonight, Isa.

— See you tonight, Elodie.