Chapter 3: Quiet Before the Storm

That night, I waited forever, but Emily never called Jason. The clock ticked on, each second louder than the last, mocking my anticipation.

Jason’s kisses burned against my skin. He seemed almost desperate, but at the last moment, I shoved him away. "I have a mission tomorrow. Let’s leave it at that."

He looked dissatisfied, his hands lingering a second too long before he finally let go.

I turned away, cocooned myself in the blanket. Jason was silent for a long time, then let out a sigh. "Alright."

Soon, I heard the water running in the bathroom. The system and I shared the same worry. [Did we blow it? Did Emily give up already?]

"No way."

I knew Emily—she’d never give up on Jason, not even if it killed her. She was relentless. I’d bet a year’s pay she was scheming already.

......

The next morning, the city was wrapped in gray. Heavy clouds pressed low, promising rain.

I got up early. For once, Jason didn’t rush out for work. He sat at the table, scrolling through his emails with one hand, absentmindedly stirring his coffee with the other. The toast was burnt, just like always. The kitchen smelled like scorched bread, cheap police station coffee, and the faint zing of citrus from the juice.

Every so often, the clink of silverware echoed in the living room. Jason finally spoke. "After this mission, transfer to a desk job. You’re marrying me now. No need to work yourself to death."

The system piped up, full of attitude. [Seriously? Not even cheese? I want pancakes. With extra syrup. You owe me after last night’s disaster.]

I lowered my eyes, cutting my ham into neat squares. "Okay."

Jason sounded like he was reading off a meeting agenda. "From now on, I’ll be at the office Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. The rest of the week, I’m home. Don’t come looking for me at work."

The system groaned. [Ugh. At least get me a donut.]

I forced a smile. "Okay."

Jason watched me finish my orange juice, push back my chair, and stand to leave.

"Rachel."

I turned. "What?"

He stared at me, brow furrowed. "You’re not usually this agreeable. What’s up with you today?"

Honestly, I hadn’t heard a word he’d said. My mind was already plotting my escape.

"Nothing."

I smiled, though every "okay" tasted like ash, but I forced a smile. Anything to get this over with. "Maybe something good is about to happen."

Jason yanked at his tie, jaw clenched. He hated being out of control, and right now, I was the only variable he couldn’t solve.

See, he couldn’t be more unwilling to marry me. I curled my lips. "Hey, Jason, can you wish me a safe return?"

Jason blinked. After a pause, he said, "Safe return."

"Thanks."

I walked out, boots thumping on the hardwood. Each step felt lighter than the last.

System: [Wow, so boring. I really thought he’d refuse.]