Chapter 2 - First Impressions
Vivienne moved cautiously around the living room, dusting the shelves and picking up scattered books. The place was still messy despite the morning cleaning—clothes on the sofa, coffee cups on the table, and papers everywhere. She was careful not to touch anything Damien had warned her about.
Damien sat on the sofa, arms crossed, green eyes following her. He didn't say much, just watched, feeling an unfamiliar sense of irritation mixed with curiosity.
Vivienne thinking, softly:
Vivienne
“He's watching me... why does it feel like he's judging every move I make.”
She bent down to pick up a fallen book, her hair brushed his arm. he flinched slightly, trying not to react.
Damien in low, controlled voice:
Damien
Be careful... the shelf is fragile.
Vivienne blushing slightly, smiling awkwardly:
Vivienne
Sorry... I'll be more careful.
Vivienne prepared a simple sandwich and tea. She set it on the small dining table.
Vivienne
I made something... I hope it's okay.
Vivienne
So... you actually live alone like this?
Damien
Yeah... used to. Not anymore.
Vivienne
I can tell... It's been hard.
Damien
It's... been two years. I don't talk about it.
Vivienne nodded, not pressing. She respected his silence, which somehow made him notice her more.
After some time Damien went to the kitchen where Vivienne is to get a class of water.
Vivienne
I know this must be strange... having someone here after so long.
Damien
It's... not easy. I don't... trust easily anymore.
Vivienne
I understand. I'll just be here to help. No pressure.
He studied her for a moment. Her calm, respectful tone, her gentle movements —it made him relax slightly.
Damien says quiet, almost to himself:
Damien
You... seem different from the others.
Vivienne smiling faintly:
Vivienne
I hope that's a good thing.
Vivienne finished tidying up and collected her cleaning supplies.
Vivienne
I'll see you tomorrow?
Damien
Yeah... see you tomorrow.
Vivienne thinking, softly smiling:
Vivienne
“He's... complicated. But I think I can handle it.”
Damien thinking, quietly, watching her leave:
Damien
“She... she's different. Maybe... maybe I don't hate having her here.”
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