P.S. My parents were pretty much wrecked and are still in shock that I’d do something like this. They called the police! Can you imagine? I don’t think I’ll sneak out again anytime soon.

A chuckle vibrates in my chest at imagining her coming back home with the police waiting for her at her doorstep.

From: lukasspencer

To: autumnthefallqueen

Hi, Autumn,

Thank you.

Both my grandparents have passed away. My grandmother went one year after Grandpa.

There is a signed paper, but I checked with a lawyer. Since we were both minors when that was signed, it has no legality. So, don’t worry.

- Lukas

P.S. I’m sorry you received the third degree, but was the band any good?

From: autumnthefallqueen

To: lukasspencer

Hi, Mr. Spencer,

Thank you so much for checking with a lawyer. I’m so relieved.

~ Autumn

P.S. The band was okay, but the experience was awesome. It was my first time at such a late-night concert.

I know I should probably stop. I’ve given the girl some peace of mind, and that was what I intended. But for some reason, I can’t help but email her again.

From: lukasspencer

To: autumnthefallqueen

Hi, Autumn,

You’re welcome.

- Lukas

P.S. Just remember to stay safe during such late events. There are always people who are simply trouble. Avoid those fuckers.

6. Lukas

6

LUKAS

I have a better grip of my surroundings when I wake up the next time. I open my eyes and stare up at the ceiling of the hospital room.

“How are you feeling?”

Everything inside me stills at hearing her sweet voice. The next time I inhale, the familiar smell of orchids and sandalwood hits me.

“If you don’t want to see me, I can leave.”

When I turn to look at her, my heart fucking stops. She’s even prettier than I remember.

Unlike the last time I saw her—four years back—there aren’t any freckles on her cheeks, and her skin is flawless.

She’s wearing a soft white pullover and black jeans. Her hands run over her covered arms. There’s a touch of makeup on her face. Her eyebrows are more sharply done, but her heart-shaped lips are as before, painted in pink.

“Are you just going to stare at me?”

Her nose is pink too. I don’t know if it’s due to anger or if she was crying for me. And wouldn’t I fucking love both of those scenarios.

“How are you?” I ask.

“You’re asking me? How are you?” Autumn walks closer to me and flops down on an empty chair. Before I can reply, she says, “I have so many questions. You’re here. You have been for the past four years. Why didn’t you tell me?”

When I groan, her voice gets softer. “I was so scared.”