I look up to see Scarlett looking down at me, I hate that.
“Graceful,” she deadpans.
Fuck this, I’m out. Climbing to my feet, I silently put my shoes on, my face slightly heating from embarrassment.
“Levi, please. Don’t leave again. Shit happens, get on with it.”
I can’t even look at her. I really can’t catch a break.
“See ya later, Quinn,” I mumble as I walk out into the warm and slightly breezy Seattle air.
I’m so fucking done.
CHAPTER TEN
SCARLETT
The soft morning light creates a subtle glow through the apartment. The hum of my fan breaks the dead silence, whilst stirring the remaining scent of last night’s jasmine candle. Outside, the world is already alive – the sound of dogs barking and car doors closing. Fuck, what time is it?
I grab my phone off the nightstand and check the time. Shit, it’s already ten?
I slump back down, pulling the sheets back up and over my shoulders. I can’t stop thinking about Levi and his face as he was leaving the studio after our last session. His olive skin tinged crimson, his eyes downcast unable to meet my own, and his posture slightly slouched.
Seeing him so disheartened made my chest feel heavy. I’m not too sure why that is exactly. As much as I dislike him and hiscocky attitude, I really do want to help him get better in time for the season. I can only imagine how important this is to him.
I sigh to myself, ridding my thoughts of Levi, before climbing out of bed.
It’s a beautiful summer day in Seattle, so I decide I’m going to make the most of it by getting in a good workout before I need to get to the studio.
Making my way across my room to my dresser, I pull out some black exercise shorts and a white sports bra, sliding them on before heading to the door to pull on my white sneakers.
I step out into the hall, closing the door with a soft click.
Once I’m on the first floor, I move through the lobby toward the street. I step out, taking a huge breath of fresh air. It's quarter to eleven now, more than enough time for a good run before I need to get to the studio to meet with Levi.
I set off at an easy pace down the quiet street, ‘Without Me’ by Eminem playing through my headphones. The warm air brushes against my skin, a light sheen of sweat starting to coat my skin.
I need to think of a way to really get through to Levi – to get him serious about Pilates and get him good in time for the season –and I think I know just the thing.
I slow to a stop outside the local coffee shop by the studio, The Daily Grind. It’s situated between two taller buildings, a little hole in the wall type of vibe. The old hand painted sign swinging softly above the old, rustic door frame. It’s always such a homey vibe here, and I think that’s why I instantly loved it when I first visited.
As I make my way inside, my heavy breathing starts to even out, the cool air being a nice reprieve. The sweet smell of pastry and the earthy smell of coffee assaulting my senses, the humming sound of chatter and the hiss of the espresso machine feels calming – just what I need before Levi Carter.
I order without thinking – my beloved caramel macchiato and almond croissant.
As I wait for my name to be called, my gaze sweeps across the small space before my eyes catch on none other than Levi. Except, he’s not alone.
A woman is sat beside him, their interaction seeming somewhat familiar. With long, blonde curls cascading down her back, a heart shaped face complimenting her golden hazel eyes and red lips – she’s beautiful. My heart skips a beat before settling heavier in my chest, but I can’t really figure out what is causing the feeling.
Levi looks up and catches my eye, his eye twinkling with amusement, the corner of his lip lifting into a smirk.
I make my way over to his table as he leans forward slightly, his elbow resting on the table, his chin resting in his hand.
He calls out, “Fancy seeing you here.”
How does he always manage to be everywhere I go?
“Well, I could say the same, although this cafe is right by the studio, and I clock on soon, so you shouldn’t be all that surprised.” I shoot back.
