Page 18 of Cedarwood Cabin

“It was just a kiss,” I reply, hoping to downplay the incident.

Nancy reaches over and puts her hand on top of mine. “You’re a big girl, my lips are sealed. Just be careful.”

“Thanks, Nancy.”

I am grateful for her understanding. I realize I can trust her as we form a little bond at this moment. My secret is safe with her.

I take a deep breath and clear my throat. My heart races as my father and Marty head back to the truck.

“Ready to head home?” my father asks, climbing into the driver's seat. Nancy and I nod, looking at each other with a smile.

I lean back into my seat and let out a sigh of relief as we drive to drop off Marty first. All I can say is that tonight has been a rollercoaster.

FIVE

FLORA

Moonlight shines through the window and fills the living room. I am slouched on the couch with a blank over me, my attention elsewhere while my father watches a show.

“You’ve really come out of your shell since we moved here. It was nice seeing you have fun,” my father says, still watching TV.

“Well, you’d be pleased to know I might take Nancy's offer…You know, working at the bar.”

It’s a small step, but it's a step forward.

My father's face lights up and I can’t help but smile. Before he can say anything, his phone buzzes loudly. He jumps up from the couch and heads to the kitchen.

“Hello, you…” I hear my father say from the other room. I’m guessing he is talking to Nancy on the phone.

I’m craving something sweet, but we have no candy in the house. I walk to the kitchen and see my father leaning against the counter, his phone pressed to his ear.

“I’m gonna walk to the store to get some chocolate,” I mouth quietly.

I grab my hoodie from the closet and slip on my trainers. Before I leave the house, my father gives me a thumbs-up.

I leave the house feeling the cool air on my face. The moon casts long shadows across the sidewalk with the crickets chirping as I walk.

My hair tangles with a rush of wind hitting me as a sleek, black motorcycle speeds past.

Was that Dax or Lyka? Damn! Why are they occupying my mind?

Bright, fluorescent lights make me squint as I enter the store. Walking down the aisle, I spot chocolate and pick up two bars. I pay and leave the store.

Outside, I see Dax leaning casually against his bike. His golden eyes meet mine and a cigarette dangles from his lips. He winks at me and I can’t help but blush. He flicks his cigarette to the ground and gestures with his head, inviting me over.

I stash the chocolate bars in my hoodie’s pocket and walk over to him, feeling nervous.

He studies me as we stand there in silence. We both look at each other, exchanging smirks. Dax retrieves his helmet and extends his arm, holding it in front of me.

“I…I…Uh. I’ve never been on a bike,” I stutter.

Dax places the helmet on my head without hesitation and adjusts the straps under my chin.

Effortlessly, he lifts me onto the back seat of the motorcycle. I feel a rush of adrenaline as he swings his leg over the motorcycle and settles into the driver's seat.

I cling to Dax’s waist without hesitation. The motorcycle engines come to life and we drive off.

The world around us dissolves into a blur of houses and streetlights. As we soar down the streets, I feel like a bird set free.

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