New Beginnings

Chapter 8

This chapter has hints of an eating disorder. Read with caution if this triggers you.

Tall buildings flashed past the window as the train moved on the tracks. Alexander saw a beautiful view of the sunrise. A golden light radiated around it, blinding anyone who set their eyes upon it.

The dark-haired man stood up from his seat, exiting through the door. His bag swayed as he walked to work. His mind was set on work and work alone. But this day, his thoughts were running around the place.

He opened the door to the building and was greeted by a warm blast of air. He sighed, stepping foot into the office. Alexander spotted the man he had run into the previous day. He lay back in his chair, thinking of what to write. His blue eyes caught Alexander's. He quickly averted them to his computer, typing away.

Alexander walked to his own desk, laying his bag down by his side. He felt a sudden awkward feeling in the room. Maybe it was only he who sensed it. He spun his chair around so he could get up from his desk. Alexander sauntered to the man who sat quietly at his desk. The man who reaches out to Alexander, even when he isn't in the mood. The man who truly cares for him.

"Marley," Alexander spoke. Marley fixated his eyes on the man before furrowing his brows. Alexander stood in silence for a brief moment. "Do you...still want to go to dinner?"

Marley's eyebrows softened. He saw Alexander trying his best to make it up to him. "Sure," Marley smiled. "If I can bring an extra guest."

"Oh," Alexander stayed quiet. "Yeah, okay."

"Don't worry," Marley chuckled. "I only meant Shai."

"I wasn't worried," Alexander mumbled, loud enough for Marley to hear. Marley laughed at the blushing man.

"Okay, looking forward to it," Marley smiled warmly.

His smile sent butterflies to Alexander's stomach. "Y-Yeah."

After weeks of Marley attempting to talk to Alexander, the two were finally connected again. The light-haired man didn't understand why Alexander suddenly spoke to him first, but it didn't matter. Marley was relieved their friendship would go on.

Hours later, their work was done for the day. Marley stood up, packing up his things. "Xander!" Marley greeted his friend.

"Oh, hey."

"Ready to leave?" Alexander nodded. "Alright. Let's go pick up Shai then."

It felt strange to be back in Marley's car. It smelt of his fragrance—rosemary. The scent swelled up in his chest, making his face turn pale pink.

Alexander kept his eyes on the window. His hair swayed in the light breeze coming from the little crack he had opened. He could admit he missed these car rides. He missed Marley's company. Someone who didn't judge him or care what he does.

Marley went to the daycare to fetch Shai. He missed her too. Kids being fond of him isn't something he experiences every day. Anyone being fond of him is bizarre, for that matter.

Marley opened the door, putting Shai in her seat. "Look who we have, Shai," Marley smiled.

Shai babbled excitedly, seeing a familiar face. Alexander turned around so he could reach her. He placed a hand on hers, stroking his thumb over her small hand. "Hey, Shai," Alexander gently said.

Marley got into the driver's seat, starting the car up once more. Before he backed out of the driveway, he received a call. "Oh, hey, Bonnie. Are you okay?"

Alexander couldn't make out what she was saying. He decided it was none of his business. Marley backed out of the driveway with his phone pressed against his shoulder. He parked outside of the building, listening to his sister.