Page 47 of Marek

I know they don’t need that.

This is my only option.

Walking up to the front door, I knock, praying he’s awake.

The front light flicks on, and my heart skips a beat as the door opens and Carter stands in the entrance, wearing only a pair ofpajama shorts, his hair messy from a recent shower. His eyes widen when he notices me, and, for a minute, he looks stunned. It’s a minute long enough for me to start rambling before he can say anything.

“I know I fucked up,” I say quickly, “but I wanted to make things right. I never meant to hurt you, and I want the chance to explain. I have nowhere to go tonight, can I please stay here? I’ll be gone by morning. Please, Carter.”

His eyes flash with rage, but also compassion.

He’s a kind man, and I do feel horrible for what I did to him.

“You left me over a phone call and you want me to let you in?” he grinds out.

“Please, it’s just one night. If you don’t want to talk, we won’t talk, but I have nowhere else to go.”

“You ran to the circus, and now you’re running from it,” he scoffs.

“No, it’s not that,” I say quickly, not wanting to give him anything to use against Marek’s show. “I just ... things are complicated. I need a break. Please.”

He stares at me, but then I see him give in. His face softens a touch and he pushes the door open. “One night. I don’t forgive you, Ellie.”

“Fair enough.” I nod. “Thank you. I’ll stay out of your way.”

I head into the apartment, and I already know where everything is. I don’t bother asking where I can stay, I know the spare room is going to be where I’m directed, so I make my way toward it.

“Is this really what you want to do with your life?”

Carter’s voice stops me, and I turn, glancing at him. “I love dancing, you know that, but I was dancing for everyone else. I’m tired of doing what everyone else wants.”

“Why didn’t you tell me you wanted something different? I would have helped you.”

Dammit.

Now I feel even worse.

“I know you would have, but I wasn’t being truthful with you. I do care about you, but not in the way you deserve. It wouldn’t be fair for me to marry you, Carter. You should be with someone who adores you because you are a great man.”

“Still could have told me,” he mutters.

“You’re right, I could have, and I’m sorry I didn’t.”

“That man you’re with, he’s dangerous.”

I swallow, nodding. “I know, but his show ... it’s incredible. It could change my entire life.”

“Then why are you here, and not there ...”

Okay, too many questions.

“I just want to make things right. I won’t stay long. I’ll leave in the morning.”

Where I’ll go, I don’t know.

“Goodnight, Ellie,” he murmurs, holding my gaze for a minute before turning and disappearing into his room.

“Night, Carter,” I mutter into the darkness.

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