Page 30 of Ghost Of You
Pulling my phone from my pocket, I quickly type a message and hit send.
Did you get a lift to work this morning, beautiful? Xx
I wait for a response, but none comes. It’s unusual for her not to reply right away. Maybe she's just busy? Considering her car is still here, I think it might be a good idea to do a big shop for us.
I put my keys and backpack down, grab Laelia’s car keys, and head towards her car. Before starting it, I adjust the seat for more legroom and send another text.
Just borrowing the car since you didn’t take it today. Thought I’d let you know in case you come home during the day. Xx
Love you xx
I place my phone in the centre console, turn the key, and start the engine. The sudden blast of music through the speakers makes me jump. Does she always keep it this loud?
Hearing the opening chords of “This Time I’m Ready” by Those Damn Crows brings a warm smile to my face. I recognise the song instantly and know she must have discovered this band through me. As the music swells, I close my eyes and let the rhythm guide me. I tap my fingers on the steering wheel in sync with the beat, and the sound transports me back to that unforgettable night in Manchester.
The concert was a brief yet electrifying experience. I had shelled out my hard-earned money just to see Those Damn Crows as they opened for the Goo Goo Dolls. I remember how, after their set, I made a beeline for home, not wanting to miss a second of their performance. Despite their set being short, it was packed with raw energy and undeniable talent. Shane, the lead singer, had a bit of a flub with the opening lines of this song, humorously declaring, “This time I’m not ready.” But the mishap only added to the charm of the night. The performance left me buzzing, eager for their next show in October. All I want now is to unwind, enjoy a cold beer, and lose myself in the music with a massive grin plastered on my face, and my favourite person by my side.
TAP! TAP!
The sudden noise makes me jump, and I open my eyes to see Andrea standing outside my car, her face lit up with a bright smile. I roll down the window, and she gushes with her usual warmth.
“Killian, dear!” she exclaims.
“Andrea! How are you?” I respond, returning her smile.
“I’m good. It’s wonderful to finally see you smiling again after everything you’ve been through. Heading off somewhere nice?”
Andrea is known throughout the estate for her kindness and exceptional baking skills. Everyone adores her, and even though Laelia has learned to bake a variety of treats, Andrea’s creations are still the gold standard. I’d never admit it to Laelia, though.
“Just heading out for a food shop. We’re running low on essentials. Nothing too exciting,” I say.
Andrea’s smile dims slightly. “Oh, Killian, you should have told me. I would have picked up groceries for you yesterday when I was out.”
“Oh, bless you, Andrea. It’s actually nice to get out and enjoy this beautiful sunshine,” I reply.
“That’s true,” she says, her smile brightening again. “Well, I’ll let you get on. Make sure to take care of yourself and that precious cat of yours.”
“You too, Andrea,” I say as I roll the window back up.
Andrea waves and heads back to her house, turning once more to give a cheerful wave before closing her door behind her.
With the groceries stowed away and the car parked back at home, I decide to walk to work. The sun is shining brightly, and I’m feeling optimistic. The nagging worries and night terrors seem a world away today. I embrace the good vibes and hope that today is shaping up to be a fantastic day.
I glance down at my phone and see that Laelia still hasn’t replied since this morning. A wave of worry hits me, and I quickly type out a new message.
Hope work is okay, beautiful xx
It’s unlike her to take four hours to reply. The longest she’s ever taken is two hours, and I can’t shake the uneasy feeling that something might be wrong. Maybe she’s just extremely busy?
I slip my phone back into my pocket and walk past Lola’s bakery, stopping to look through the window at the tempting array of baked goods. My stomach growls, and my mouth watersat the thought of a sweet treat. But instead of indulging my craving, I continue down the street towards the tattoo shop. I’m not supposed to be working today—Thursdays and Sundays are my days off this week. I’m only heading over because Laelia’s at work and the cold, unsettling feeling that lingers at home makes my skin crawl. I push those thoughts aside as I walk.
Before I reach the tattoo shop, I get a strange urge to look around, as if something is silently urging me to pay attention. I turn and see Laelia walking across the street, her attention focused on her bag. A car speeds towards her, and she seems completely unaware, still searching for something in her bag.
“Laelia!” I shout, trying to catch her attention. But she doesn’t hear me, and the car continues its relentless approach. “Laelia!” I shout again, my voice desperate. She doesn’t react. Without thinking, I run across the road, reaching her just in time. I grab her and pull her out of the way as the car slams on its brakes, the driver honking his horn furiously.
“Can’t you see someone’s crossing the road, asshole!” I shout at the driver.
The driver glares at me, giving me the finger. “Get out of the road, knob-head!” he yells back.