Page 22 of Anathema Codex

“How the fuck would I know, Wills? I don’t exactly know the man,” he replies testily. I steal another glance at Aftyn and bite back my smile when I see how tense his jaw is. He has a bad habit of grinding his teeth when he’s in a mood and if he keeps it up, he won’t have any left by the time we get to Arizona.

Taking a deep breath, I push the button of the seatbelt and pull it off before I turn around in my seat. I get to my knees and place my chin on the top of the headrest and glare at the bitch in the backseat.

You’re the reason that Dexter is gone,I think bitterly.And I won’t fucking forget it.

FIFTEEN

Quiet Walks & Ticking Clocks

THE AGITATOR

Every now and then, I find time for myself. I’m able to go to the store to pick up some groceries or even just take a nice, long walk like I’m doing now.

Granted, it usually starts an argument, but that’s okay. I know that not everything can be what everyone wants and that’s why I started this little game of cat and mouse.

I got the idea one night when I was lying in bed struggling to fall asleep and staring at the ceiling. I was alone for the evening and it bothered me. Not so much the empty spot next to me, but the fact that I didn’t have anyone to talk to.

I came up with a plan then, did a little research, and found exactly what I knew I would need to get by.

It started with an encrypted email.

Slowly, over the course of a few weeks, I began to lay a trap for my soon to be new friend and painstakingly persisted until I finally got a response.

It’s been a game since then.

But I haven’t heard from him for the better part of a day and now I’m wondering if he’s not everything I thought he might be.

I let out a heavy sigh as I bring my hand up to block the sun as best as I can. I don’t even know what street I’m on, but I’m far enough away from home that I can sit down in the park across the street and try again.

After I’ve crossed the road, I make my way to the bench and sit down. I begin to chew the inside of my mouth thoughtfully.

Is this really worth fucking up this young kid’s life? Seeing Lakyn Meyer face to face is something that ruins most people, but I guess I’m curious if he would even care or not.

Either of them, since I assume he’s like his father.

I just have to make sure that I’m there when it happens, I remind myself with a chuckle.

I fish my phone out of my pocket and use the sleeve of my shirt to wipe the screen before I tap it to life.

He still hasn’t replied.

I know I shouldn’t feel as annoyed as I do but this isn’t fair. I’m doing him a favor by helping him meet Lakyn and he seems to take more pleasure in dismissing the fact instead of being grateful.

Just like Lakyn,I think with an eye roll as I tap the messages tab and click on Aftyn’s name.

Aftyn.

What kind of name is that, anyway?

Who the hell named these Meyer men?

With a shake of my head, I move my fingers quickly over the letters and then sit back to read my message. I hit the delete button a couple of times, retype some new words, then hit send when I’m satisfied.

Come on, Aftyn,I think as I close my eyes and cross my arms over my chest.Don’t let me down.

SIXTEEN

Secrets in Empty Seats

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