𝓒𝓵𝓪𝓻𝓪

I had watched Dominic, scared for Violet, but realized within a few minutes how gentle and kind he was to her. He may have some anger issues, but when it came to Violet, he knew how to control them.

He wouldn't hurt her, and this brought me great trust.

I thought about this at the cafe the next morning, reminded of it when a father and little girl walked in. The man was gentle and kind.

Perhaps I could learn to trust someone.

It was noon, and I knew Maverick would be stopping in soon. My heart raced nervously at the thought.

The snow was melting, leaving behind a muddy mess. The temperature had risen, but not significantly.

I watched as Maverick neared the door, wanting to sprint, but I held my ground.

I could learn.

I let out a shaky breath as he neared. He smiled, "Same as always," and placed his cash on the counter. His brows furrowed as he watched me, "Hey, everything okay?"

I went to grab his money, realizing my hands were shaking badly. I nodded, drawing back quickly.

Maverick looked around as if looking for a threat, looking for something or someone that could turn me on edge. "You're sure?" He glanced at my hands. "There isn't something here?" He asked carefully.

I glanced up at him, meeting his amber eyes briefly. "No... I'm fine."

He smiled slightly, as if amused, "You know I'm a police officer, right? If something's scaring you, I'll take care of it."

I nodded. "I know." I turned to hand his order to someone, regretting the decision to leave myself.

"You're talking a lot more than usual. Finally warming up to me?"

I kept my eyes down, holding my hands tightly to stop the shaking. "I need to take the next order."

He smiled, glancing from my face to my hands. "Still a no, huh?"

I swallowed, nodding, and pressed down harder on my hands, praying he'd leave.

He smiled, nodded, "Tomorrow then."