Honestly, it’s my fault for expecting him to change. Our little rivalry used to be fun, but ever since Nora was taken, well, let’s just say the fun no longer exists. Our banter turned to barbs, and as ashamed as I am to admit it, they’re buried deep in my subconscious.
I suck in a deep breath, holding my gaze in the mirror as I count to ten, before slowly blowing it out. “You are a good person. You deserve good things. You are enough. You are worthy of love.”
I repeat my go-to mantra a few more times before setting out in search of the perfect outfit. I need something that says hot but unapproachable. It’s nights like these I really wish I had a girlfriend or two to go out on the town with. God knows, I’d feel safer in a group, but Irefuseto live in fear.
Except my phone pings before I make it to my closet.
It’s a text. From Ellis. I’m half-tempted to ignore it, but in the end, my curiosity wins out.
Officer Jackass: We need to talk.
Me: I don’t think we do.
Officer Jackass: Please.
Me: That please hurt, huh?
Officer Jackass: I’m serious, Scarlet. We need to talk about last night.
I’d literally rather do anything else, but something tells me he’s not going to let this go. So, I plop down onto my bed and absentmindedly stroke Fefe’s soft fur while tapping out a reply.
Me: Okay. Talk.
Officer Jackass: I’m sorry.
Me: For what exactly? Be as specific as possible.
Officer Jackass: I saw you panic when Nora asked about your stalker. I was trying to take the heat off of you and went about it the wrong way. I was talking out my ass and didn’t mean it. In hindsight, we should’ve discussed how to handle this whole situation beforehand.
“Well, color me surprised, Fefe.” She nibbles the tip of my index finger before burrowing back under my duvet.
Me: A heads up would’ve been nice, but I get there were extenuating circumstances.
Officer Jackass: So… you forgive me?
Me: I guess so.
Officer Jackass: Great. Now, let’s talk about why you lied.
Me: WTF?! I didn’t lie.
Officer Jackass: You sure did. You promised to tell me about any and all developments with your stalker, and your reaction when Nora asked made it obvious you haven’t been.
My shoulders slump under the weight of his accusation. He’s right. I have gotten a few more notes, but they’ve all been relatively benign. I also found flowers on my windshield again and had my lunch paid for. Nothing worth bothering him over.
Me: It wasn’t anything serious. Promise.
Officer Jackass: I swear to god, Scarlet.
Me: Gotta go. Byeeee.
I close out of our text thread andset my phone on the bed screen down. It buzzes a few more times, but I ignore it. After what feels like an eternity, I settle on my comfiest distressed jean shorts paired with a black bra and a black mesh long-sleeved top. It’s the perfect blend of comfy and cool. Exactly what I need tonight.
“Boots or sandals?” I ask Fefe, holding up each option. Boots are my go to, but sometimes a girl needs to change things up.
She peeks up at me from beneath the covers and wiggles her little pink nose.
“You’re right. Boots.” I tug them on and then scoop Fefe into my arms. “Your palace awaits you, cutie pie.”
