“Well, yeah. I watch those shows, too, and I know where you are going with your argument, but, things between us... well, I can’t really explain them,” I mumbled truthfully. “You know all the stories you read that mention love at first sight?”
“You mean you read about mostly, but yes, I know, the fictional stuff. Hence the word ‘fictional’.”
“Yes, fictional, but it seems it’s all true. I honestly love him, Chloe. And, there isn’t a doubt in my mind about that fact. I’m sure that sounds crazy, but it’s true. I love Lex. And, he loves me. Coming from someone who doesn’t trust easily, you must know the significance of that. He had good reasons for blowing me off the first time.”
“What reasons?” she asked, making me realize I’d slipped and said too much.
“It’s complicated. Please, for now, though I know I’m asking a lot, please, please, just trust me, that I am a sane person who knows what she’s doing. Regardless, but I’d prefer to leave knowing I have your support, your blessing, that you are happy for me… anyway, I am, as wild and unlike me as it sounds, going on this trip he’s offered me. I deserve it.”
As I spoke the words, they proved a pep talk to myself that I did need to go, not only away with Lex, but to meet my family, distant bloodline or not. I needed answers as much as they needed to figure out my powers. Plus, I needed to get away to be safe. If the empty living room and kitchen in my apartment hadn’t been enough to remind me of the violence, then looking out the window at the almost desolate apartment parking lot due to the fact that the cleaners had pulled some strings to have the apartment building evacuated, had to be. The sight had sent me over the edge into unnerved and suddenly unsure thought, coupled with the fact that I was on the phone lying to my best friend about it all.
I wasn’t a good liar, and had never experienced such a thing as the last few days, the hatred and the love, so I felt like I was suddenly losing it when earlier this morning I’d been so sure of myself, of my decisions. The brutal images of last night’s battle right here in my apartment, werewolf tearing apart werewolf, were still too fresh in my memory to ignore despite the scent of cleaners. I obviously needed Lex to get through. He’d been the only difference between now and then, me being sure and unsure. The realization at least brought me comfort in my decision to leave with him, though I’d exhausted myself in getting there.
“You do deserve it,” Chloe said, her voice soft, bringing me out of the insane rantings of my own brain. “And, I’m happy for you; it’s just, I need a moment. I’m in shock is all. And, I’ll admit, a bit worried. He’s not even telling you where you are going? I mean, I don’t want to rain on your parade, but doesn’t that sound like the start of one of those murder mysteries you read? Maybe you will understand more if I put it on the level of something you are familiar with. You mentioned the love at first sight element of romance books, so let me remind you of the dangers you can learn of in crime fiction. You know. Cute guy. Love at first sight. Romantic getaway. Murder case.”
“I get it,” I snapped, looking away from the parking lot I’d emptied, somehow feeling guilty that the bad guys had come to my door, as if I’d caused the disruption to all who lived here’s lives. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you. But, I’ve been on top of the world until this phone call, and I just wanted you to be happy for me. I’ll be safe. I promise I will. You are just going to have to trust me here, Chloe. I’m a grown woman. A cautious woman. I’m not really the type to go off and get myself killed.”
“I guess. I’m sorry. I’m just shocked, and... well, I don’t know what to say. This is definitely out of character for you, but I’m not sure I find comfort in that fact. But, I will trust you. You have a good time. Keep in touch. I am honestly happy for you if you have found Mister Right. Does he have a brother?” she joked, though it had come through the phone as forced and far from genuine, her voice still holding that deep depth of outrage.
“Well, I appreciate the attempt there to turn this phone call around. I know you are worried about me. I get that. Face it, I’m usually the one worried about you. So, roles are reversed for a bit. But, I will be fine. Thank you for being happy for me even if you are lying through your teeth. Listen. I should go. I left Lex packing for me. I will call. Almost daily if it makes you feel better. Okay?”