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Me: That's worse.

Chaos: You kept two.

I go still.

My gaze drops to them lying on the counter.

Me: No, I didn't.

Chaos: You put them in your pocket.

She saw me.

Chaos: Also, you’re James.

I close my eyes.

Me: I'm not James.

I look toward the windows. Nothing but trees and darkness outside.

She's not here.

She couldn't be.

I made sure no one followed me.

Still, I walk to the window.

Nothing.

I check another.

Empty.

She was in the gym parking lot, watching me close enough to see the fucking notes I put in my pocket.

And I didn't see her.

Me: Where were you?

Chaos: Somewhere.

I laugh as soon as I read it. It’s loud enough to fill the empty kitchen.

“You little shit.”

My phone buzzes again.

Chaos: How does it feel?

I shake my head.

Me: You're enjoying this too much.

Chaos: Nah. It’s exactly the right amount.

I should stop responding.