Chapter 59

Laura POV




"Living in this new city, incognito and alone, I've found solace in the kindness of a stranger. The lady who has taken me under her wing, sheltering me in her home, has been a blessing.




Her radiant smile each morning, and her dedication to preparing breakfast with such care, have restored my faith in humanity. She's been a guardian angel, making me believe that there are still good and selfless people in the world.




"'Laura Stevenson!' she exclaimed, bursting into giggles and leaping onto the couch with childlike abandon. Her name is Daisy, and I've grown to appreciate the freedom that comes with being packless - no identity to bind me, no mate to answer to, just the liberation to live life on my own terms."




Daisy's infectious laughter and carefree spirit had a way of making me feel alive. I found myself laughing along with her, feeling a sense of joy I hadn't experienced in years. As we spent more time together, I realized that I had been living in a state of numbness, going through the motions of life without truly experiencing it.




But with Daisy by my side, everything felt different. She was the sunshine that brightened my day, the calm in every storm. And as we sat on the couch, watching the sunset through the window, I knew that I wanted to spend the rest of my life making her happy.




"Daisy," I said, my voice low and serious. "From the moment I met you, I knew that you were special. You light up my world in ways I never thought possible. “Are we still going for the interview?”




"What?" she muttered, rushing to her room. "I almost forgot, Laura, I'm sorry!" she called out, her voice followed by the sound of water splashing and pouring into the bathtub. I realized she was in the middle of a bath.




"No worries, Daisy, we can go tomorrow if you're not ready," I said, trying to stifle a grin. But she burst into uncontrollable laughter, her joy infectious and filling the entire space. "Shut your mouth, silly! I'm trying to take my bath!" she exclaimed, her words punctuated by giggles.





I couldn't help but chuckle at her antics, feeling a sense of ease and comfort in her presence. As I waited for her to finish her bath, I took a seat on the couch, surrounded by the warm glow of candles and the soothing scent of essential oils.




When Daisy finally emerged, her skin glowing and her hair wrapped in a towel, she grinned mischievously. "Ready to go on an interview?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.




I nodded, my heart racing with anticipation. "Always," I replied, following her out into the morning atmosphere.




We wandered through the streets, hand in hand, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. We laughed and joked, our spirits soaring as we explored the world around us.




We arrived at an upscale restaurant, its grandeur and elegance leaving me speechless. I turned to Daisy, my eyes wide with wonder, and she burst into giggles at my silent reaction.




"Yeah, yeah..." she murmured, her excitement palpable. "This is where you'll be working from now on," she announced, her words filled with a sense of pride and joy.




I couldn't believe it. This grand, sophisticated restaurant was going to be my new workplace? I felt like a small fish in a big pond, utterly out of my depth. But Daisy's infectious enthusiasm and encouraging smile helped to calm my nerves.




As we walked through the restaurant, Daisy introduced me to the staff and showed me around the kitchen. Everyone seemed friendly and welcoming, and the head chef, a tall, imposing figure with a kind smile, made me feel at ease.




"Welcome to the team, Laura," he said, his voice deep and reassuring. "We're glad to have you on board. Daisy has told us great things about your skills."




I blushed, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Daisy for her unwavering support. As I began my first day, I realized that this new chapter in my life was full of possibilities. And with Daisy by my side, I knew I could face anything that came my way.




The restaurant was bustling with customers, but one familiar face caught my eye - Jovia, a regular who always left me in stitches. He winked at me, his eyes twinkling with mischief, and I couldn't help but giggle.




"Hey, Laura! My favorite waitress!" he called out, beckoning me over with a playful gesture. "Be my server for today, please? I need someone who can keep up with my jokes!"




I laughed and made my way over to his table, feeling a sense of ease with this friendly customer. "Well, it's great to see you again! What can I get for you today?" I asked, pulling out my order pad and pen.




"The usual, please, Laura," he replied, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "And a side of your famous smile, of course."




I playfully rolled my eyes, grinning at his charming banter. "Coming right up," I said, winking at him as I took his order.




As I delivered his food and drinks, we chatted about everything from the latest news to our shared love of movies. The guy was easy to talk to, and I found myself feeling more and more at home in this new job.




Just as I was refilling his coffee cup, Daisy appeared at my side, a sly grin spreading across her face. "Laura, I think it is almost time for you to go home." I nodded, packing up some empty plates from the table.




"I'll be right back," I said, hurrying to the kitchen to deliver the plate. I quickly completed my task and rushed back out to the dining area, but my haste almost led to disaster. As I rounded a corner, I collided with someone, and my feet flew out from under me. I stumbled, barely regaining my balance before I fell to the ground.




Mate! Mate Again?