Chasing His Kickass Luna Back

Abby

Karl hangs up with one final request.

“Be ready in a few hours.”

I can't help but feel a sense of relief at the thought of getting out of here, and at the same time, I can't deny that I'm excited to see him.

My heart races as I pack a small bag with enough clothes and essentials for a few days. The events of last night still weigh heavily on my mind, but knowing that Marcus is on his way to pick me up provides a glimmer of relief.

But as I zip up my bag, a strange feeling washes over me. It feels as if I'm preparing for a secret rendezvous, like some kind of celebrity on the run from the paparazzi. The thought makes me chuckle nervously, and I take a deep breath to calm my racing thoughts.

Before I know it, it's almost time. I'm all packed, dressed in a low-key outfit, and I've made my call to Officer Martinez to let her know I'm leaving town.

“I'm glad to hear it, Abby,” she says. “Stay safe. I'll keep you updated.”

As I step into the chilly morning air, I spot the sleek black car waiting for me in the alley, the tinted windows providing a shield from prying eyes. Marcus is in the driver's seat, his expression somber. I can't help but remember a time when he used to be so chatty with me, especially when I was still married to Karl. Now, there's a palpable awkwardness hanging in the air. But can I blame him?

I climb into the car and meet his gaze. "Hey, Marcus,” I say. “Long time no see.”

“Yeah,” he says as he puts the car in drive. “You got everything?”

I nod. 1 only packed one bag, because I don't plan on staying for long; and besides, there are still some things of mine at the house. I realized during my last visit that Karl never cleared them out. As Marcus shifts the car into gear and pulls out of the alley, neither of us says anything. The silence is almost suffocating. I can feel Marcus’ discomfort, and it gnaws at me, despite the relief in my stomach as I watch the news vans fade into the distance. They're oblivious to my secret escape, or so it seems.

For a long time, we just drive in silence. Eventually, we get onto the highway, and neither of us has said a word. I'm not sure if I can bear another three hours of this.

In an attempt to break the ice, I reach for the radio and turn it on. The familiar melody of a pop song fills the car, and I can't resist the urge to sing along. My voice is a bit shaky at first, but as I continue to sing, I start to feel a sense of liberation.

Marcus, however, remains stoic.

“Come on, Marcus,” I say, flashing him a playful grin. “Don’t be so serious. Join me!"

He hesitates for a moment, his grim expression softening just a bit. And then, to my surprise, he starts to sing along with me. His voice is surprisingly good, and I can't help but laugh.

“See, this isn't so bad, is it?” I say as I dance in my seat, feeling strangely carefree in this moment. Marcus chuckles, and it's a genuine, warm sound. “You're right, Abby. It's been a while since I've let loose like this.”

As we continue to sing and dance in the car, the tension between us gradually eases. It feels like a glimpse of the past, when things were simpler, and I was still a part of Karl's world.

The miles pass by, and the cityscape gradually gives way to open roads and countryside. The car ride is long, but the music and our shared laughter make it feel shorter.

Before I know it, we're talking about anything and everything: old memories, the changes in the pack, Marcus’ wife, Elizabeth. I forgot how close we all used to be. It's bittersweet, now, to experience a glimpse of that again

Eventually, the music fades, and we settle into a comfortable silence. The landscape outside the window becomes more scenic as we leave the city behind. I take in the rolling hills and lush greenery, the worries of last night fading into the background.

As we approach our destination, I start to wonder what exactly is waiting for me at Karl's house—in our old home. A mixture of emotions swirls inside of me—gratitude for his offer of sanctuary, anxiety about what the future holds, and a lingering sense of unease about the events that led me here.

But for now, at this moment, I'm just content to let the music play and enjoy the company of an old friend, even if the circumstances that brought us together are far from ordinary.