Chapter 214: Brandon Being So Vulnerable
The early morning sun streamed through the windows of James’s apartment, casting long shadows across the living room. Lyse, dressed in a pair of James’s oversized sweatpants and a simple t-shirt, stood before him, a hesitant expression on her face.
"James," she began, her voice quiet, "would it be alright if I... if I looked through your closet? I need something to wear to work."
James looked at her, a flicker of concern in his eyes. He was worried about her. He knew she was hurting, deeply hurt by Levi’s revelation. He had seen the pain in her eyes, the hollowness in her gaze. He was afraid that she was trying to bury her feelings with work, throwing herself into her job to avoid confronting the emotional turmoil within her.
"Of course, Lyse," he said gently, trying to keep his voice light. "Help yourself. But... are you sure you are ready to go back to work? You don’t have to, you know. You can take some time off."
Lyse shook her head slightly. "No, James," she said. "I need to... I need to do something. I can’t just... sit around here all day."
James understood. He knew that for Lyse, work was more than just a job. It was a part of her identity, a source of strength and purpose. And perhaps, he thought, it was better for her to be busy, to be surrounded by colleagues and familiar tasks, than to be alone with her thoughts, dwelling on the pain and confusion that plagued her.
"Alright," he said, nodding. "Go ahead. See what you can find."
Lyse managed a small smile. "Thank you, James," she said. "You are a lifesaver."
She headed towards his closet, a walk-in space filled with an eclectic mix of clothes. She rummaged through the racks, her fingers brushing against the various fabrics. She found a crisp white silk shirt, oversized and comfortable, and paired it with a mini skirt of her own that was still at James’s apartment. It was a simple outfit, but it was professional and presentable.