Page 42 of Your Soul Is Ours

“Apparently Ashley had left candles burning, and they said somebody left a pot on the stove to cook or something, but forgotabout it.” I sigh, remembering the call from the fire chief telling me they had ruled it accidental, and they were closing the case.

“If you hear from either of my parents, can you tell them to call me?” her voice trembles.

I know it must be hard to worry that your parents have just up and left you. “Will do. Take care, okay?”

“Yeah, you as well.”

I end the call and move out to the backyard, curling into the chair that Sebastian bought for me. Unease creeps into my thoughts and won't let go. I can’t even explain what is wrong. My mind is clouded with darkness, leaving me feeling drained and unmotivated. I sit in my chair, staring out into the backyard. The vibrant colours of the flowers bring me a sense of tranquillity as I sip my iced coffee. The phone rings again. It’s never had so many calls in one day.

“Hey.”

“Hey Marla, I’m sorry for calling,” Jess’s voice is flat.

“Never be sorry. I’m always here for you.”

“I know, but you are supposed to have a date tonight, right?”

I think it over. Checking the time, I see it’s past four, which explains the caffeine withdrawal headache. “Doesn’t matter. Whenever you need me, I’m available. What’s wrong?”

“I don’t even know. Stupid, right? I just felt extremely lonely and thought I should reach out to you. It’s nothing important. I shouldn’t have bothered you. It isn’t as if we can be fixed.”

I knew that feeling all too well. “Do you want me to come over? We can just chill all afternoon and go to the centre together tomorrow?”

“No, I couldn’t ask that of you. I know that you’ve been looking forward to your time with Sebastian. I’ll be alright and we have tomorrow. Plus, every other day after that.” Her laugh is forced.

“What if I come after dinner? We can watch television and occupy each other’s minds?”

“Marla, it was a moment of weakness. I’m sorry I reached out. I’m okay, really.”

But I know she isn’t. After we hang up, I walk back into the house.

“Good afternoon, my dove. What’s wrong?” I walk into his arms. They drape over me, holding me close to his warm body, so I’m breathing in his citrus smell.

“Something is wrong with Jess. She called but didn’t want me to come over, but the feeling nags at me that she needs me. Also, my cousin called, looking for my aunt and uncle.”

His arms go rigid around me, his hold getting tighter. “What did you say?”

“Vacation. I haven’t had contact with them in a long time. I doubt I could be the first suspect. Fuck, their neighbours hate them just as much, so it could be them.”

His head rests on mine. We’re wrapped up in each other, even though I need so much more caffeine.

“What if I call Steve and go in for a later shift, we can grab tacos and eat at the lake and then I’ll drop you off at Jess’s. I’ll pick you up from the park tomorrow when you’re done at the centre.”

“Has anyone told you how perfect you are?”

He smirks and pulls away from me to pour us both a coffee. “Call her and get the address and I’ll call Steve.” I kiss his chin before he leans down and captures my lips with his. Contentment and desire surrounds me as he grips me closer, but I break the kiss to walk away with my coffee and make a call.

“Marla, I told you I’ll be alright,” Jess says as she answers the phone.

“Well, I won’t be. Sebastian has to go to work tonight. Apparently his boss didn’t get the same memo you did and now I’m alone tonight.” I’m hoping with the switch to my needs, she will want to help. I haven’t ever gotten a call from her before, andI ache to make things better for her; she has quickly become my best friend.

“After dinner or for dinner? My apartment isn’t nice, but it’s…just…I don’t know.”

“What if we met at my apartment? If you would feel better about it, we can go there.”

Memories run through my mind like a movie. I would have been embarrassed if anyone had come over when I was not at my best, but I got better at hiding everything.

“Would that be alright? I can meet you there around six. I’ll bring chips.” Her voice has become more animated, and I know that I’ve made the right choice.

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