Into the Darkness

“I’ve got it from here, Alex. Why don’t you take Sammy home?” Elijah suggested.

“Where are Adriana and Charlotte? I should probably say goodbye.”

“Charlie took Adriana upstairs, where she passed out on her bed.”

“Thanks, Elijah. I’ll be back around seven to help clean up.” I shook his hand before turning around to find Samantha passed out on the couch. She remained asleep the entire way home and still hadn’t woken up when I put her in our bed. She snored so loud I knew I had no chance in hell of sleeping, but at least I avoided that shower she was planning.

I grabbed a spare blanket and settled on the couch. My cell lay beside me. Should I? It was two o’clock. She was probably asleep but I texted her anyway.

I’m guessing you’re asleep. I’m sorry I lied that I was sorry.

Only a moment later my cell buzzed. I smiled like a lovesick fool as I read her text.

I’m awake. I obviously didn’t drink enough vodka. You can be sorry, it’s ok. I understand, Alex.

But I’m not, that’s the thing. I didn’t mean to say it. I wanted that to happen. I’ve wanted it for a while.

I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel the same way. But this can’t happen again. It’s so complicated. For starters, you’re married.

I know, Charlotte. I’m just saying I’m not sorry. It won’t happen again, as much as I want it to. You’re right, it’s too complicated, and of course there’s Adriana to think about.

Not to mention your parents.

And you’re mom and dad. Did I see holsters hanging from your dad’s pants?

You’ll be glad to know he takes them off when he has to use the bathroom.

So for two minutes I’m safe?

Is that all it takes you, Alex??

If you stuck around longer outside, you would have found out.

I would say maybe next time but that is breaking the rules.

Right, the rules. I forgot we just put that in place. Well, I’ll see you in the morning to clean up the mess that is my sister.

Goodnight, Alex. Thank you for tonight.

I scrolled through the message, re-reading it one more time before I deleted the conversation. My eyes drooped as the tiredness took over. “Goodnight, my beautiful girl. Now it’s my turn to thank you,” I whispered to myself as I closed my eyes and fell into a peaceful sleep.

Chapter 13

Charlie

April 2005

There were a million and one jackhammers going off inside my head. Why on Earth did I drink that spiked punch? Oh that’s right, because I had kissed my best friend’s brother. My best friend’s married brother. I was so fucking screwed. I had no time to lay here and think about what I’d done. The house was trashed and we had three hours to have it back to its original condition or Adriana was toast.

“Morning, Charlie. Would you like a cup of coffee before you start?” Elijah offered.

I looked around, surprised and secretly pleased that he had done a lot already. God, he was such a good boyfriend. “Wow, you’ve already done so much.”

“Yeah, well, I can’t have Adriana grounded on her eighteenth birthday. What kind of boyfriend would I be then?”

I patted him on the back. He was such a great guy.

“OK, so the kitchen is done. I’ll tackle the rest of the house if you attempt the poolhouse and pool.” He laughed, knowing he had left the worst part for me. I pouted as I walked to the door, opening it to welcome the cool fresh air.