Total pages in book: 123
Estimated words: 113332 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 567(@200wpm)___ 453(@250wpm)___ 378(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 113332 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 567(@200wpm)___ 453(@250wpm)___ 378(@300wpm)
Laurent knew he achieved his goal of taking the high road while kicking some dirt into the face of the man behind him when Michael froze with his lips parted.
“What is that supposed to mean?” came from him, but it was too late. Laurent was already walking back to his locker.
Chapter 17 - Laurent
The whole workday passed so fast Laurent could barely believe it when he was done cleaning the tables. The sun set, casting beautiful shadows across the street, and as Laurent took outdoor seats back into the café, he was struck by the thought that all this beauty and grandeur might come to an end if those who knew what was coming couldn’t stop the impending doom.
No matter how pleasant it was to engage in a whole new task, learn to make artisanal coffee, and chat to friendly strangers, Laurent couldn’t forget what was going on at the clubhouse, and Beast’s visit had reminded him of that. The secret nature of Beast’s plans had been an itch he couldn’t scratch all day, and his only respite had been working on cracking Baal’s code of action.
Michael hadn’t talked to him since the lunch break, but he did leave a lot of mess for Laurent to deal with when he finished his shift early, excusing himself with an errand he needed to run. Maybe it was for the better that Michael showed his true colors before they could have become friends.
“That was a great first day, Laurent,” Mr. Linde said, finishing his spiced tea, already out of the apron they all wore for work.
Laurent smiled. Mr. Barnave had rarely had a kind word for him, despite Laurent’s endless efforts. “I know I haven’t done everything right, but I promise I will learn every day.”
Mr. Linde snorted. “You should have seen me at my first job. I messed up nearly everything, and my mum had to beg the manager to give me a second chance. And I wasn’t even raised in a cult. I’m amazed you’re doing this well.”
“Thank you for this opportunity. Not everyone is as kind.”
Mr. Linde shook his head. “It’s me who should thank Travis for recommending such a hard worker.”
They could exchange compliments all afternoon, but Laurent had already spotted Elliot’s black car parking on the other side of the street. “Is there anything else I’m needed for?”
Mr. Linde waved him off. “Nah. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Laurent put the apron into the laundry basket and ran outside so abruptly he stumbled off the sidewalk when a van he hadn’t noticed drove right in front of him.
Elliot looked out of the open window of his vehicle and frowned at Laurent. “You need to remember they’re a thing, okay?”
“I didn’t want to keep you waiting.” He was also dying to be at the clubhouse and find out what Beast was up to. Laurent quickly sat in the passenger seat and looked at Elliot with a sigh leaving his mouth. “I wish I had my own car.”
Elliot started the engine, and they moved up the street where most businesses were winding down for the day. “I’m sure Beast will get you one once you make up.”
Laurent sank into the seat, even though his heart knew no other way either. “Why do you assume we will?”
Elliot braked to let an elderly couple cross the street. “Come on, Laurent. He gave up his freedom for you. Of course you’re gonna make up. It’s only a matter of time.”
Laurent twirled his thumbs for a while, relieved that someone else thought the same way. Through the past few days his insides had been raw with worry, but this day was a beacon of hope. “He came to the café today.”
Elliot glanced at him briefly before focusing on the road again. “And? Did you tell him you were sorry?”
“Excuse me? Of course not! He’s the one who should apologize. I can’t believe you’d suggest that. Did Knight tell you to work on me?”
“He didn’t have to. I know you don’t agree with this, but I think you should trust Beast. He is the prez, and he always does what he thinks is best for everyone. What are you two even arguing about? Is this again about him trying to protect you a little bit too much?”
Laurent crossed his arms on his chest. “Just because he thinks something is ‘best’ doesn’t mean he’s right. Why would it? I can’t believe you’re taking his side. Especially that our argument wasn’t about that at all.”
“So what was it about? Are you really throwing away your relationship because of some petty issues? Most people aren’t as lucky as you or I,” Elliot muttered, expressing his disapproval by not smiling.
Laurent looked out of the window at the town they were leaving behind. The setting sun only reminded him that another day had passed without Beast’s closeness. “Beast doesn’t want a child. Never did. It’s not all as easy as you make it sound.”