City Blue
It was just an ordinary day for Ember, following her usual routine. But by evening, a restless energy stirred within her. She decided to go for a walk, hoping the movement would ease the discomfort in her legs. The crisp evening air felt refreshing as she strolled toward the park, lost in her thoughts—until an unexpected voice broke through them.
"Where are you going at this time?"
She looked up to find Dr. Zayne standing before her, his expression warm yet tinged with curiosity.
Ember offered a small chuckle. "Honestly? I got bored lying in bed all day. I thought a little walk might help me feel better."
Zayne's smile faltered, his brows drawing together in disapproval. "You should be resting at a time like this," he said firmly. "I told you to take it easy."
Holding his gaze, Ember's voice remained steady. "I know rest is important, but if I stop using my legs for too long, won't it hurt even more when I try to walk again?"
Zayne parted his lips as if to argue, but the determination in her eyes made him hesitate. Instead, he let out a resigned sigh. "Fine. But at least sit for a while and talk."
He extended a hand toward her for support. Ember hesitated, her fingers hovering just above his. In that brief pause, an image of Dylan flickered in her mind, causing her breath to hitch.
Zayne noticed her hesitation and softened his voice. "I'm just helping you for a moment. Go on—take it."
After a heartbeat of silence, Ember nodded. "Okay." She slipped her hand into his, a small smile playing on her lips.
They walked over to a nearby bench and sat down. A gentle breeze whispered through the trees as Ember turned to him with curiosity. "So, what brings you here, doctor?"
Zayne leaned back slightly, his posture more relaxed. "Actually, I just moved to this area a few days ago."
Ember's eyes lit up with interest. "That's great! Where exactly?"
Zayne scratched the back of his head, looking a bit sheepish. "I don't remember the address exactly. Once I finish unpacking, I'll show you some other time."
Ember tilted her head, studying him. "So, you're not from around here?"
"No," he admitted. "I'm originally from City Blue, but I wanted to live on my own. This area seemed peaceful, especially since it's on the outskirts of the city."
Ember glanced around at the quiet park, the gentle rustling of leaves filling the air. "Yeah, it's a great place," she agreed.
A brief silence settled between them—not entirely awkward, but just enough to be noticeable. Ember was the first to break it. "So, are you here for a walk too?"
Zayne shook his head. "No, I just got back from running errands and picking up groceries."
Curious, Ember leaned forward. "Can I see what you bought?"
Without hesitation, Zayne handed her the bag. She rummaged through it, only to raise an eyebrow when she found nothing but instant noodles.
"Seriously? Just instant noodles? Why?" she asked, half amused, half incredulous.
He let out a soft laugh, looking a little embarrassed. "I just moved in, and my kitchen isn't set up yet. It's either these or takeout."
Ember shook her head with a teasing smile. "Why don't you join us for dinner, then?"
Zayne hesitated, his expression uncertain. "No, you don't have to do that. I'll be fine," he said quickly.
Ember wasn't convinced. "Come on, think about it. We're friends, after all."
But he still shook his head. "I'm really sorry, but I can't." His voice was apologetic, yet firm.
Not wanting to make him uncomfortable, Ember let it go. "Alright, if you don't want to. Let's head back—the sun's about to set."
Zayne nodded, and they began walking back together.
As they walked, he noticed Ember's pace slowing. A glance down revealed her legs were slightly swollen. Concern flickered across his face.
"Are you okay? I could give you a piggyback ride if your feet hurt."
Ember immediately shook her head. "No, it's okay."
But Zayne crouched down in front of her anyway. "Come on, hop on."
She hesitated, glancing around nervously. After a brief moment of inner debate, she let out a resigned sigh. "Okay."
Without any effort, Zayne lifted her onto his back as she directed him toward her home.
"You don't have to do this," Ember murmured.
Zayne smirked as he carried Ember toward her house. "A moment ago, you said we're friends. But now you don't want my help?" he teased.
Ember huffed, crossing her arms over his shoulders. "Well, if you think of me as a friend, you should've agreed to come to my house for dinner," she quipped, a playful smirk on her lips.
Zayne fell silent, amusement flickering in his eyes, but he said nothing. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
As they reached her home, Ember pointed toward the door. "Here we are. You can drop me off now."
Zayne gently set her down, his gaze lingering on her with a mixture of concern and quiet amusement. But before he could say anything, a sharp voice interrupted them.
"Ember! Where did you go? I told you to stay in bed! You are getting older but still behaving like a child ?!"
Ember froze, eyes widening as her mother appeared in the doorway, arms crossed and looking utterly unimpressed. Without thinking, she quickly stepped behind Zayne, using him as a shield.
"Mom, I'm really sorry. Forgive me!" she pleaded, her voice taking on an almost childlike tone. Then, tugging discreetly at Zayne's sleeve, she whispered urgently, "Doctor Zayne, say something!"
It was only then that her mother's sharp gaze landed on Zayne. Her expression softened instantly, surprise flashing across her face.
"Oh! I'm so sorry. May I know who you are?" she asked, her tone shifting to one of curiosity.
Zayne offered a polite smile. "Hello, Aunty. I'm Dr. Zayne. You visited my hospital a few weeks ago for Ember's treatment."
Recognition dawned in her mother's eyes, and her entire demeanor changed. "Oh, Doctor Zayne! What a surprise! What brings you here?"
Zayne hesitated, casting a sideways glance at Ember. "I ran into Ember at the park, and her leg looked—"
Before he could finish, Ember discreetly pinched his arm, a silent warning in her touch. Catching on, Zayne cleared his throat and smoothly changed his words.
"I just thought I'd drop her home safely," he finished.
Her mother eyed them both suspiciously, but the respect in her voice remained.
Her mother's stern expression softened into a warm smile. "That's so kind of you, Zayne. Do you live in this area? I don't think I've seen you around before."
Before Zayne could answer, Ember quickly interjected. "Actually, he just moved here a few days ago."
Her mother's sharp gaze snapped to her. "I was asking him, not you. Stop talking!" Then, turning back to Zayne, she continued, "So, where do you live, Zayne?"
Zayne chuckled, barely managing to suppress his laughter at their interaction. "Actually, we're neighbors. I live next door."
Her mother's eyes widened in delight. "Oh! So you're the handsome doctor everyone's been talking about!"
"Mom!" Ember blurted out, mortified, her face instantly heating up.
Her mother shot her a dismissive glare. "You be quiet! We'll talk about this later."
Zayne shifted awkwardly, sensing the tension, and offered a polite smile. "Aunty, I should head home. I still have some unpacking to do."
Her mother's tone immediately turned apologetic. "Oh, I'm so sorry for keeping you. Thank you for bringing Ember home."
Zayne shook his head kindly. "It's no trouble at all, Aunty."
Ember, sensing the inevitable lecture waiting for her once Zayne left, quickly scrambled for a plan. With a bright, innocent smile, she spoke up. "Mom, why don't we invite Doctor Zayne for dinner? It's already dinnertime, and I don't think he's had a chance to set up his kitchen yet."
Zayne turned to her, his brows raising slightly in surprise. His eyes silently questioned her—Are you serious?
Ember met his gaze with a pleading expression, silently begging him to stay.
Her mother nodded thoughtfully, considering Ember's suggestion. "You're right, Ember. That's a great idea. Zayne, why don't you join us for dinner? I was planning to invite our new neighbor anyway. It's better to do it today, don't you think?"
Zayne hesitated, his gaze shifting to Ember, who was practically begging him with wide, hopeful eyes.
Not giving him a chance to refuse, her mother pressed on. "Come now, Zayne. We won't take no for an answer."
With a soft chuckle, Zayne finally gave in. "Okay, if you're insisting."
Her mother beamed, clearly pleased. "Wonderful! Let's head inside."
As they walked into the house, Ember lingered slightly behind with Zayne. Looking up at him with a mischievous grin, she whispered, "Thank you so much, Doctor. You really helped me out this time. You saved me from my mom's scolding."
Zayne shook his head with a quiet laugh. "I think you owe me for this too."
Inside, the warm aroma of home-cooked food filled the air. Ember's mother smiled as she led them in. "Take a seat, Zayne. Dinner is almost ready."
Before he could respond, Ember quickly spoke up. "I'll take Dr. Zayne to my room. Call us when dinner is ready."
Her mother, distracted with preparing the meal, simply nodded. "Okay."
In Ember's room, she climbed onto her bed and patted the space next to her. "Feel free to sit anywhere."
Zayne nodded, opting for the chair near her study table instead. "Okay."
Ember studied him for a moment, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "Hey, Doctor, how old are you?"
Zayne let out a small chuckle. "I'm 25 this year."
Ember's eyes widened slightly. "Wow, you became a doctor at such a young age."
Zayne leaned back, a nostalgic smile playing on his lips. "Actually, I've dreamed of becoming a doctor since I was a kid. That dream kept me motivated."
He then turned the question back to her. "What about you?"
Ember let out a soft sigh, leaning against the headboard. "I'm totally different from you. I don't have a clear goal in life. I'm just going with the flow."
Zayne smiled gently. "That's good too. No pressure—just living a carefree life."
Ember felt a small warmth settle in her chest. "Thanks for saying that." A tiny smile tugged at her lips.
Zayne tilted his head slightly, his curiosity evident. "So, tell me more about yourself, Ember."
Ember thought for a moment before shrugging. "About me? Well, there's not much to tell. I'm a first-year college student, studying BBA with a specialization in human resources."
Zayne's eyes lit up with interest. "That's great! Why did you choose HR as your field?"
Ember's expression brightened as she answered, "I like their work—helping people solve workplace issues, providing them with jobs, and creating a happy environment for them to work in."
Zayne nodded, clearly impressed. "I think you've found the right path, even if you're just going with the flow."
Ember blinked, slightly confused. "Why do you say that?"
Zayne leaned forward, his voice steady and sincere. "The way you just explained things—your passion for helping others—it's clear you made the right choice by choosing this major."
A warmth bloomed in Ember's chest at his words. "Thank you, Doctor. You always say just the right thing I need to hear."
Zayne grinned playfully. "If I'm helping, then why don't you start calling me by my name?"
Ember hesitated, shifting slightly. "You're older than me, so with all due respect, I don't think it's appropriate to be that casual with you."
Zayne chuckled, shaking his head. "I know I'm older, but didn't you say we're friends? As your friend, I'm giving you permission to call me by my name."
Ember considered his words before finally smiling. "If it's okay with you… Zayne."
Just then, her mother's voice echoed up the stairs. "Ember, come upstairs Dinner is ready."
"Okay!" Ember called back, swinging her legs over the edge of the bed to stand.
The moment her foot touched the floor, a sharp pain shot through her leg. She winced, immediately sitting back down. "Ouch!"
Zayne's expression shifted in an instant, concern flashing across his face. He leaned forward. "What happened?"
Ember grimaced, her hand instinctively gripping her leg. "My leg…" she mumbled.
Zayne knelt down, carefully placing Ember's leg on his thigh as he examined it. His brow furrowed at the sight of the swelling. "I told you to rest, but you never listen. It's all swollen." His voice carried a mix of concern and mild frustration. "Where's the medicine I recommended?"
"In the right drawer of the study table," Ember replied softly.
Without hesitation, Zayne stood up, retrieved the medicine, and knelt back down.
ember ask him not to do it because it is embarrassing but he don't listen. He gently applied the ointment to her leg, his touch precise and careful.
"Ouch!" Ember yelped, flinching at the sting.
Zayne immediately slowed his movements, his voice dropping to a soothing tone. "Sorry. I'll be gentler."
Once he finished, he reached for a bandage, but Ember quickly stopped him. "If you wrap it, my parents will notice and get worried. I don't want that."
Zayne's frown deepened. "I know you don't want them to worry, but it still needs to be wrapped. As your doctor, it's my responsibility."
Ember met his gaze with a pleading look. "I promise I'll apply the ointment and wrap it before I go to sleep. Please?"
Zayne let out a deep sigh, shaking his head in disbelief. "How are you so convincing? Fine. But you have to keep your promise."
A grateful smile spread across Ember's face. "I will. Thank you, Zayne."
Zayne helped her stand, keeping a steady grip on her arm to support her. As they made their way out of the room, Ember's heart warmed at his kindness. She couldn't help but smile as they walked together, feeling a quiet sense of comfort in his presence.
As everyone gathered around the dining table, Ember's father broke the silence, his voice calm yet curious. "So, Zayne, how are you doing these days?"
Zayne offered a polite smile. "I'm doing fine, sir."
Ember's mother, ever the attentive host, chimed in with a warm smile. "Talk while eating, Zayne. And you've barely taken anything on your plate." Before he could protest, she began piling more food onto his plate.
Zayne chuckled lightly. "Aunty, I'll serve myself if I need more. The food is really delicious," he complimented sincerely.
Her mother beamed with pride. "Thank you, child. I just made something simple today. Next time I invite you, I'll cook something new."
Zayne nodded, his smile genuine. "Okay, I'll look forward to it." He continued eating, clearly enjoying the meal.
Just then, they hear footsteps coming upstairs, and Ember's younger brother, Zen, strolled in. He leaned forward across the table, mischief dancing in his eyes. "So, Doctor, what exactly are you doing here?"
"Zen! That's not how you talk to a guest!" their mother scolded, shooting him a sharp glare.
Zen chuckled sheepishly. "I'm sorry, Doctor. I just didn't expect to see you here so soon. It's only been a few days since we met at the hospital."
Zayne, caught off guard, nearly choked on his food. Ember reacted quickly, handing him a glass of water before turning her fiery gaze to Zen. Under the table, she discreetly pinched his leg.
Zen winced, hissing under his breath. "Ouch! What was that for?"
Ember leaned in slightly, her voice low but firm. "Just shut your mouth, wash your hands, and sit quietly."
Their father, unimpressed by Zen's antics, added sternly, "Zen, you better apologize, or you won't be allowed to eat tonight."
Before Zen could say anything, Zayne interjected, his tone light and forgiving. "It's okay, Uncle. He's just teasing me. No harm done."
But Ember wasn't as lenient. She shot her brother a pointed look. "No, Zayne. He's being rude. Zen, apologize. Now."
Zen sighed, rubbing the spot on his leg where Ember had pinched him. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry—especially to you, Doctor Zayne. I really didn't mean any offense." He quickly went to wash his hands and returned to the table, noticeably more subdued.
As the meal continued, Ember's mother turned her attention to Zayne, her curiosity evident. "So, son, how old are you?"
"I'm 25, ma'am," Zayne replied politely.
Her mother's face lit up. "Oh, that's wonderful! Ember is just 18. There isn't too much of an age difference between you two. Actually, Ember is quite shy and doesn't make many friends. It would be great if you both could become close."
Zayne smiled warmly. "Actually, ma'am, we've already become friends. And honestly, I don't think Ember is as shy as you say. She has a beautiful personality—introverted but warm, loyal, and emotionally intuitive."
Hearing this, Ember felt heat rise to her cheeks. Embarrassed, she quickly reached for her glass of water, taking a few sips to compose herself.
After dinner, Zayne stood up, offering a grateful smile. "Thank you so much for your hospitality. The meal was delicious."
Her mother beamed. "You should stop by again sometime since we're neighbors now."
Her father nodded in agreement. "Of course, son. You're welcome anytime."
Zen suddenly jumped to his feet, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I'll see Doctor Zayne off."
Ember shot him a suspicious glance, but he only grinned in response.
Downstairs, Ember turned to Zayne, her voice soft yet sincere. "So, Zayne, let's meet again sometime soon."
Just as he was about to leave, Zayne noticed her slight limp. His brows knitted together in concern. "Wait, let me help you with the bandage. You can't tie it properly by yourself. If you're okay with it, that is."
Ember hesitated briefly, then nodded. "Sure. You're the doctor—you'll do a much better job than me."
Zayne knelt down and carefully applied the ointment to her swollen leg before wrapping it securely with a bandage.
"Ouch!" Ember winced.
"Sorry! I'll be gentler," Zayne assured her, his voice filled with concern. Once finished, he helped her back to her bed, pulling the blanket over her. "All done. Make sure you rest properly."
Ember smiled warmly, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you so much, Zayne. Goodnight."
Zayne returned her smile. "Goodnight, Ember. Take care."
As Zayne walked toward the front door, Zen followed closely behind. The moment they stepped outside, Zen leaned casually against the doorframe, a smirk playing on his lips.
"I didn't think you'd get this close so fast, Doctor."
Zayne frowned slightly, confused. "What do you mean?"
Zen crossed his arms, his gaze sharp yet playful. "I saw the way you look at my sister."
Zayne's eyes widened, and he quickly shook his head. "It's not like that. We're just friends—nothing more."
Zen's smirk deepened, but his voice took on a serious edge. "No need to be shy. But listen carefully—if you ever hurt her, I won't forgive you."
Zayne studied him for a moment before offering a small, sincere smile. "You're a very protective younger brother. I admire that."
Zen relaxed slightly, though he still held his stance. "Yeah, well… don't tell her we had this talk. If you do, she'll beat me up for meddling."
Zayne chuckled, nodding. "Alright. It'll be our secret."
With that, he turned and walked away, disappearing into the night. Zen watched him for a moment longer before sighing and heading back inside.
On the other side -
In her room , Ember lay in bed, staring at the door with a soft smile on her lips. "I have a new friend now," she murmured to herself, warmth spreading through her chest.
As exhaustion settled in, her eyelids grew heavy, and slowly, she drifted off into a peaceful sleep.