Aurelia
"Speak." He says.
"Hey," I say, keeping my tone casual. "Just wanted to let you know I'm alright."
There's a long pause. "Aurelia...Where are you? What's going on?"
"Nothing you need to worry about," I say quickly, too quickly. "I'm fine, Kane. I just... I need you to promise me something."
"What?" His voice is sharper now, edged with suspicion.
"Don't come looking for me. Don't send anyone after me. I'm handling things, and I need to do it alone. Okay?"
"Aurelia, what the hell are you talking about? Where are you?" "I can't tell you that," I say.
"Just trust me. I'll be back when I can. But you have to promise me, Kane. No searching. No worries."
There's silence on the other end, the kind that makes my heart ache. Finally, he speaks. "If you're in trouble—"
"I'm not," I lie again, the words tasting bitter.
"Just... promise me, Kane."
Another long pause, then a resigned sigh.
