This was why I didn’t do things without thinking them through first. If I had spent just a little bit of time considering all the possible outcomes of this trip¸ I could have saved us both a lot of trouble. If I had thought about it, I wouldn’t have agreed to join him.
I’d be at home right now, staring at the television by myself and talking to my action figure dolls.
I swallowed past the lump that had formed in my throat. It had been ridiculous for me to think this was a good idea. I should be home. Yes, I’d be by myself, but I’d be safely by myself. I wouldn’t be worrying about what I had done wrong. I wouldn’t be wondering if the guy I was with was a criminal.
What do criminals do when their date doesn’t work out? Would he think I’d learned too much? Would he consider me a threat to him?
Oh, shit.
I closed my eyes for a moment, convincing myself I was not trying to hold back tears. I was way out of my comfort zone, not to mention far away from my home and friends and possibly in danger. I hadn’t even told Mare where I was going or with whom.
If I disappeared, she’d have no idea where I went.
A sudden wave of panic came over me. My eyes burned as my attempt to hold back tears failed. I quickly pulled out my phone and turned it on. It beeped immediately, letting me know I had missed texts from both Gabe and Mare. Gabe wanted to know if I could wait until next week to go car shopping, which was perfect. Mare was asking about heading out after work to check out florists.
I sent Mare a text.
Hey there! I just wanted you to know I can’t do flowers this week. I’m in Florida with a friend. I should be back next weekend.
Her reply was immediate.
Damn, girl! What friend? You didn’t say anything about taking a trip!
I sat down on the toilet.
His name is Aiden Hunter.
I hit send.
Clo are you okay? I’ve never heard of this guy. Where are you exactly?
I wasn’t sure if I was okay or not.
I met him after you guys left the bar. I’m
in Miami. Golden Beach.
I wiped a stray tear from my cheek and waited for her to reply.
You met him Friday? And you are in Miami with him now? Alone? JFC
I couldn’t argue with that sentiment.
I know. I’m not sure what I’m doing here.
Another instant response from Mare.
Do you want to talk?
I shook my head as if she could see me.
Can’t now. He’d hear me.
Are you safe?
Now there was a damn good question.
I think so. I mean, he’s been really nice.