Love, Betrayal, and Deception

Paths Crossed

Corey's POV Continue

It was late in the night, but I wanted to go for a drive. I needed to get away from the house. Nothing's changed in this place. I believe that's what bothers me. The fact that, despite the years that had gone by, nothing seemed to have changed.

I drove past the park I used to love, the sidewalks I used to skip on, and the trees I used to climb. Nothing's changed but me. Where should I go after this year? Where do I want to go? I want to go as far away as possible and never return to this place. The memories that once lived here are more painful to bear the longer I stay. The cool breeze felt calming. That's the only thing in this place that helps me calm down. Some people see it as fresh air, but I see it as a breath of life. Taking one day at a time and night cruises might just help me through this year.

As I'm driving down this dark road, I see someone on the side of the road changing a tire, it seems. It's already late at night, so who would bother being out here alone but hey, that's none of my business. Just when I was about to drive past the car, I glanced closely, and it was her. What's she doing here all alone? Is she ever afraid? First, the fight, now out here alone at night? I could just keep going and mind my business, but I couldn't help that uneasy feeling in my chest. Maybe I'll just check in on her and leave.

I pulled over to approach her, but she was wary of my presence. I don't want to frighten her. When I offered help, she stood up immediately. She looked shocked to see me, and she was holding pepper spray and a tool. What a clever girl, but she didn't respond to my question. I decided it was best to repeat myself just in case she didn't hear me. She started talking to me like I was someone she knew, yet she didn't even know me. After helping her, I checked the time on my phone. As I was about to tell her that I was heading out, she asked me a question that made me halt.

"Why?" She asked.

"What do you mean why?" I wondered.

"Why did you hurt Luke? Who are you?" she whispered.

I chuckled. Oh, so this is about him, I see. "Do you really want to know?"

"Of course I do because Luke's my friend," she stated firmly.

My face hardened, "He deserved it."

"I'm sorry, whatever the reason is, he didn't deserve that. He was bleeding and in pain. Thank you for offering help, and I appreciate that. It's late already so I'm leaving. Goodbye." She turned to walk away as I stood there, watching her leave.

She seemed closed off but kind and sweet. The dangerous kind of person who brings you out of the dark abyss just to leave you to burn in the open... If only she knew.