One Another Chance to Love Rachel

Rachel

What's the best way to forgo everyone and everything that hurts you? For me, it is to get drunk.

I don't normally like to drink alcohol because it makes me lose my mind, and I don't like the fact that something has this kind of effect. If anything I like the most is being sober. So I don't make any rash decisions that I might regret in the future.

But today it's different, for just one day I want to be free, not caring about anything else in life. I don't know what the morning brings for me but I wanna enjoy being out of control for once.

"What do you think you're doing here?" I sensed a hand on my shoulder as the glass was taken away from my hand. I turned around to see my so-called boss, concern etched on their face.

I groaned loudly, trying to grab the glass back, but the hand held it out of reach. "Give it back, you're no one but my boss, why do you care."

He stood right in front of me, shooting deadly glares at me as he placed both his arms around my waist, lifting me from the stool that I was sitting on. As he held me in his arms, I could feel his frustration and worry emanating from him.

"I care because I value your well-being," he said firmly, his grip tightening slightly. "You're more than just an employee to me and I can't stand by and watch you harm yourself." I slapped his face trying to free myself from his grasp but he didn't even flinch a bit and carried me out of the bar and into his car.

"Fight all you want, but you're allowed to drink more." He continued, his voice filled with determination.

"Let me go, or I'll shout," I said, trying to open the door, but it was locked and the windows were rolled up tightly. I realized that escaping from his control would be much more difficult than I had anticipated.

"Sit quietly, I'm taking you home," he replied, as he buckled my seatbelt.

Our gaze met as his finger touched the bare skin of my hip, sending a shiver down my spine. I felt a mix of fear and uncertainty. "Why?"

"Because you're my employee," he said, separating himself from me physically. I could sense the power imbalance between us, and it made me question the boundaries of our professional relationship.

"I'm resigning," I turned my gaze away from him, turning my head to the window and watching the city lights blur as we drove.

"You're not allowed to," he replied sternly, his voice filled with authority.

"I'm not allowed to resign and you're allowed to cheat on me," Shit what did I say, the alcohol is making me lose my mind. I quickly realized that my words had slipped out unintentionally, fueled by the alcohol coursing through my veins. The car fell into an uncomfortable silence as I anxiously awaited his response, unsure of how he would react to my accidental revelation.

He parked the car on the side of the road, turning his head to me. "We're not in a relationship," he said, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and confusion. The weight of his words hit me like a ton of bricks, as I realized that perhaps our connection wasn't as strong as I had thought.

"But we do have something," I whispered, my voice barely audible. The realization that our bond was not what I had hoped for left me feeling vulnerable and uncertain about where we stood.

"We do, but that doesn't mean we're committed to each other," he replied, his tone gentle yet firm. It was a painful truth to accept, but I couldn't deny the validity of his words.

"Yeah, we just fuck buddies," I said removing my seatbelt.

"Don't...," Jayce said, holding my wrist gently. His touch and words offered a glimmer of hope, making me reconsider my initial assumption about our connection. "You ever say that word; you don't know how precious you're to me."

"How precious," I replied, filling every mere inch in between our bodies, staring right into his eyes.

"Rachel..," He said, letting go of my wrist, and moving away from me. I could see the conflict in his eyes as he struggled to maintain his composure. It was clear that my words had struck a nerve, and I immediately regretted my thoughtless response.

I took the car key and threw it somewhere in the backseat.

"What do you think you did to throw the key?" His voice seems calm but the annoyance on his face says otherwise. I bit my lip, realizing that my impulsive action had only escalated the tension between us.

"You can't leave until you answer,"

"Rachel," he said, his voice now tinged with frustration and impatience.

"What, you're angry now, or you're so desperate to be with her like last time," I blurted out, regretting my words as soon as they left my mouth. His face turned red with anger, and I could see the hurt in his eyes. The silence in the car became suffocating as we both realized the weight of our words.

Jayce put both his hands on my shoulder, shaking my body lightly, "Don't act as if you care," he whispered, his voice filled with disappointment. "You've made it clear where you stand."

I sighed, as I was finally coming to my senses, "You're right," I said, holding the keys that I acted to throw away, unlocking the door, and leaving before he could stop me.

Without caring to glance back at Jayce, I moved forward. I blame the alcohol for making me act so stupid. I should have known that this arrangement was nothing but a bad idea. All my life, I fought to escape the same fate as my mother, but in the end, I'm not different from her. I allowed my emotions to rule over my mind and looked at what happened.

"I hate myself, I hate myself for falling in love, I hate letting my emotions rule my mind, I hate....," I mumbled walking away from Jayce but lost my balance, getting ready to fall on my ass.

But the fall never came. What came was a gentle landing on a firm set of arms, with a very familiar pair of eyes staring at me, with his around my waist, leaning over my face as a pair of soft, tender lips kissed me.

The kiss came as a surprise at first, but I leaned into his touch yet again, allowing my emotions to rule over my mind, wrapping my arms around his neck and deepening the kiss. The kiss lasted long, with no one of us wanting to stop, but at last our lips separated from each other's grasp, but the hand holding me remained the same. As we pulled away, a sense of warmth and familiarity washed over me. I looked into his eyes, feeling a sense of comfort and safety in his embrace. It was at that moment that I realized how much I had missed him and how much I longed for this connection to continue.

My hands subconsciously his cheeks, the little stubble on them tickles as I gently smooth my hand on his cheeks. "I hate you," I said, even though my actions don't justify my words.

"I know it's a lie," He said, carrying me to the car.

"Where are you taking me?" I said, borrowing my head in his chest, with my senses enjoying the warmth and fragrance of his body so close to mine.

"Home, you're too drunk to be left alone," He said, easily unlocking the door even with me in his arms. "We'll clear all misunderstandings in the morning when you're sober." He buckled my seatbelt. Placing a gentle peck on my lips, before closing the door.

Jayce

There hasn't been a time that I've ever been attached to a woman other than my mother and sister. My thoughts about relationships are very clear; I don't want commitment and complications in my life. But today, after seeing Rachel all sad, drinking alone in a bar made me angry. I always wanted to protect her even though she was an employee. But, when she is all drunk and vulnerable. alone like this, this doesn't seem to be possible. I find myself conflicted, torn between my desire to maintain emotional distance and my instinct to offer comfort and support. Perhaps it's time for me to reevaluate my stance on relationships and consider the possibility of opening up to someone like Rachel. After all, protecting her seems to matter more to me than I initially realized.

It doesn't change the fact that I hate to commit. But I don't know what happens to me when I'm with Rachel. I can't see her with anyone but me, and that's one of the reasons why I crossed my limits and did something I should have never done.

I slept with her and looked at what had happened at last. I should've known that Rachel is not the come-and-go type of girl; she wants commitment even if she never accepts the fact herself.

I sighed, turning to look at the drunken beauty sleeping beside me in the car. As I watched her peaceful face, I couldn't help but feel a mix of guilt and confusion. Despite my aversion to commitment, being with Rachel made me question my own beliefs and desires. I wondered if this unexpected connection was worth the potential heartache that could follow.

I don't know how much she'll remember about anything that happened tonight, but what I know is that if Rachel wants commitment then I'm allowing myself to let all my fears fade and see where this relationship takes both of us. I realized that sometimes taking risks and stepping out of my comfort zone could lead to unexpected happiness and growth. With Rachel, I was willing to explore the possibilities of a deeper connection and embrace the uncertainty that came with it.

I'm a selfish guy and I can't see my girl with anyone but myself.

I chuckle and turn my head, hearing Rachel mumble in her sleep. "I hate you," she playfully mutters, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. I can't help but feel a surge of warmth and affection for her, knowing that even in her dreams, she still finds a way to express her love for me. It's moments like these that reassure me that taking the risk was worth it and that our relationship is built on a foundation of trust and genuine connection.

Life is never sad and boring when I'm beside her, she fills color in my black-and-white world. Her presence brings joy and excitement to every moment as if she has the power to turn even the most mundane tasks into adventures. I am grateful for her ability to bring out the best in me and make every day feel like a new opportunity for happiness.

"I know you don't," I mumbled close to her ear, removing a few strands of her hair away from her face, I carried her in my arms, and inside my house. As I walked through the threshold, a sense of warmth and comfort enveloped us. The familiar scent of home mingled with her perfume, creating a soothing atmosphere that instantly put us at ease. With each step, I couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for having her by my side, transforming my house into a sanctuary filled with love and laughter.

Tomorrow, when she wakes up, I want to start a new chapter with her in my life. I want to create countless memories together, exploring new adventures and facing life's challenges hand in hand. With her, I know that every day will be filled with joy, growth, and a deep sense of fulfillment. But tonight I want her to sleep in my arms with her head close to my heart. As I hold her close, I can't help but reflect on how lucky I am to have found someone who truly understands and supports me. The sound of her steady breathing lulls me into a peaceful state, knowing that no matter what tomorrow brings, we will face it together.

"Tomorrow, I'll tell you how special you are to me," I said gently, pecking her lip, embracing her petite frame close to my warmth. As I watch her drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel a surge of gratitude for the love and connection we share. At this moment, I realize that there is no place I'd rather be than right here, holding her in my arms and cherishing the depth of our bond.

"I love you." I muffled softly, my voice filled with sincerity and affection. I knew that these three words could never fully capture the depth of my feelings for her, but I hoped they would serve as a reminder of my unwavering commitment to our relationship. With a gentle smile, I whispered to them once more, knowing that our love would continue to grow stronger with each passing day. I wrap my arms around her body, letting the sleep claim us both.

I hope tomorrow brings us happiness. and joy, as we navigate the challenges and joys of life together.

Rachel

"Ahhh," I groaned, adjusting my eyes to light. The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room.

God, my head hurts so badly. I tried to recall the events from last night, but my memory was hazy.

I massaged my temples with my hand, hoping to get some relief, and turned my head to the side of the bed, only to come face to face with Jayce. His tousled hair and peaceful expression brought a sense of comfort amidst my pounding headache. As I watched him sleep, fragments of the previous night's adventures began to resurface in my mind, filling in the gaps in my memory.

Wait, now I remember that I was drunk yesterday and had a fight with Jayce; after that, he carried me in his car. Then, what happened next-I don't remember-and how I ended up coming into Jayce's house and in his bed

I checked my clothes quickly, but nothing seemed unusual. I'm still wearing the same clothes that I wore yesterday. Jayce seems to wear PJs and a t-shirt, which seems odd. He is a naked sleeper and doesn't like clothes in bed.

So, nothing happened last night, so why am I here? Wait, I confessed my feelings while drunk to Jayce.

Shit, Shit shitt.. what've I done? I don't want a relationship. Commitments make things worse, and who knows that better than I do?

I have seen my mother, who was not once happy with my dad and yet never divorced, and I've faced it myself too in the past. I remember the pain and heartbreak that came with trying to make a relationship work. It's not something I want to go through again.

Shit drunk, Rachel You made quite a mess, Rachel.

Good thing Jayce is still asleep; maybe if I'm lucky, I can sneak out and never look back.

Yeah, I can go to my old house; no one here knows the old address, and no one can find me there, not even Jayce.

Move Rachel, I signed, staring at the last glance at the sleeping and handsome face of Jayce. I took a deep breath, reminding myself of the pain I had experienced in the past. I couldn't let myself fall into that trap again. With a heavy heart, I quietly slipped out of the room, leaving behind the mess and memories.

This is the last time I can see him. I don't want that image of him to ever fade from my mind. As I closed the door behind me, I made a silent promise to cherish that final image of Jayce forever.

"I'm sorry," I said, silently leaving everything that I had in the past, like a coward.

This is good for both of us. We never wanted anything serious, but I let my feelings rule over my mind, which disappointed both of us. Only if I leave can we both be happy, living our lives as if nothing happened.

I know Jayce doesn't consider me someone more than an employee, and just because we share the bed doesn't mean that we both can share each other's hearts. It's time for me to accept that our relationship was purely physical and not meant to be anything more.

*******

Jayce

I smiled at myself even if I was half asleep, but I'm happy because I know after today things will only get better and change for the better.

I moved to the side of my bed, scanning the space that seemed cold beneath my touch. With my senses on alert, I opened my eyes, looking at the space where Rachel was sleeping last night, but now she is nowhere to be found. Confusion washed over me as I tried to make sense of the empty space beside me.

Jumping out of bed, I took rapid steps, scanning every inch of my house, hoping to somehow find Rachel, but no matter how much I tried, she was nowhere near my sight. My heart sank as the realization hit me-she was gone.

I signed, sitting on the edge of the bed with my hands on my head. "Why?" I groaned, wanting to express the stress and anger beneath my heart in words. But I can't; it's no use right now. I then grabbed my phone, calling Rachel again and again, but the phone was switched off.

I paced around my house, blaming myself again and again, if only I wasn't a fool. Accept the feeling in my heart that things would be better; maybe I'm too late.

Shut up! I shouted, grabbing my car keys and phone without even caring to change my clothes. I made my way to Rachel's apartment. I need to be quick; I said driving the fastest and safest as legally I can.

Rachel, don't you dare to leave me when I've built enough courage to accept my feelings for you.

I quickly parked my car in front of the apartment building. Running to the door, only to be disappointed with it being locked.

Rachel, why are you hiding? I paced around her front door, nearly losing my mind, finding no way to contact Rachel.

Shit... I punched the wall closest to me, thinking of finding some comfort from my anxiety, but nothing helped; it only hurt me physically this time too.

I scanned my knuckle, which was now bruised and throbbing badly, but at least it helped distract me, even for a bit.

'Rachel,' I sighed her name, playing with the bracelet on my wrist. It was a gift from Rachel, and in many ways, it was just a replica of her personality-sweet and quirky and yet mysterious in some way. And for now, this is the only thing close to me that reminds me of her other than the memories I created with her. I touched the bracelet once more, promising one thing: that I'll find Rachel one day, and that day I will confess everything unknown, even the closet in my life, to her, and even if even after that, her feeling remains unchanged for me, I'll leave her and never look back, living my life as before, alone, dedicated to my works. Because I can't dream of falling for anyone but her in this lifetime.

Until then, my quest to find my mysterious Rachel starts now.