Archive of Our Own

Prologue

-Backstage Pass-

          Time ticks by on an old neon purple clock. The room it’s hung in is still, almost quiet except for the faint sound of music, and an old, but small VCR tube TV’s static. Coming into this stuffy space, one would smell coffee that was left in the room ten minutes ago, and the stale but sweet smell of Twooles (Twizzlers) pretzels and Cheetos that’s been left out for two days.

          The sound of this dank room explodes, as a green haired punk woman, with breathtaking features kicks in the door of the dirty dive bar’s greenroom and walks in.

          “Yeah, then tell her to get the fuck out of bed, okay… I don’t know how… maybe – hold on…” The woman turned and kicks the door shut, then walked towards the mirror that is hanging on the right-side wall. “Maybe try reminding her that a drum machine doesn’t take up half the van and smell like ass after the gig.” She growls in her phone. “20 minutes?” She looked to the clock. “Yeah, okay, I can make that work.” The woman hung up the phone, then, walks around the tiny coffee table trying to calm down. The band she manages for, is ridiculously late for the show she had booked in advance months ago. Thinking of this, the green haired woman stops walking around, and stopped in front of the mirror again. She looked at herself then sighs. Her thoughts start scattering into other things, until there was a knock at the door, that caused her to focus again.

          “Last call, dearie. Either your band is heading on stage now or I call the show.” An English man shouted through the door. ‘Fffuck. No show means no fee. Means no gas. Means no tour. Means… fuck.’ She thought. And like always, she had to think of a clever way to make a bad situation work in her favor. She remembered the old food left out on the table.

          “Maybe call the board of health while you’re at it, asshole. Or are the cockroaches part of the catering service?”

          “What you on about?”

          “I’m talking about my lead singer puking her guts out because you’re feeding us rancid red vines and pestilence.”

          “Alright. Sorry. Take all the time you need.” He said then walked away from the door. ‘Solid play for tonight, but now this will definitely be our last gig here.’ She thought then stared. Her mind slowly started drifting again, until her own reflection in the mirror caught her eyes. She turned to it, looking at herself then to the dark purple scribble that resembles a tornado to her. She couldn’t help but focus on it. It started to remind her of the terrible dreams she’s been having for months. Then out of nowhere the noise of the sleazy bar distorted, making her think that this place was really a hazard zone, until the world started feeling funny… And then it too was slowly distorting. The sound of Time ticking got louder in significance. The punk chick knew something was very wrong then backed away from her own image. Before she knew it, she was pulled backwards, falling through the world and into another… on to the floor of her old high school bathroom, just like her terrifying dreams.

The woman sat up, and took a moment to look around. Her old high school bathroom on one side, and a nice looking fireplace she’s never laid eyes on. This has never happened to her before… This was way to vivid to be a dream. All this crap was starting to freak her out more than normal. But she knew she had to keep moving in this place. She stood up and took a deep breath. ‘Not again… It keeps getting worse. But I just need to find the way out…’ She thought to herself then walked slowly up the snowy path.

          As she ascends, she looks down and saw a gun. This always triggers an unfamiliar voice shouting to someone she used to know. And for that person, she knew she would never use a gun on anyone. Then she finds a Polaroid camera. This always triggers a memory as well. She stopped walking for a moment, then stared at the camera for a second. She listened to the echo of a better time, and felt the pain of those words, then thought about the person who said them.

          “I’m so glad you’re my partner in crime.”

          “As long as you’re my partner in time.”

She shook her head and moved on. ‘Max is always on my mind. Lately, I feel she’s the only thing in my mind that belongs there.’ She thought, then pushed it aside just to keep moving up the hill of this recurring nightmare. The gravestone she came across. The name on it kept flashing interdimensionally from hers to her mothers. Out of everything she sees in these dreams, this one, was the second to the worse one, and it always made her feel like she had something to do with her mothers’ death, even though her mother was very alive. This phantom guilt weighed heavily on her heart. She sighed and moved on.

Once she got to the top of the overlook, she sees a body laying on the ground. This one always frightens her the most. As she gets closer, she sees her teenage self-dead in the snow. Scared but staring at her younger self, she reflects on the fact that if Max didn’t rewind, that would have been her fate. She looks up to the lighthouse hearing its beam. It was spinning faster than it should. This was different then the last time she’s had this dream. Something catches her eye below the lighthouse. A familiar face that used to bring her comfort, was standing with a camera pointing at her.

(Cue the Music: Nine Inch Nails – Hurt)

          “Max?!” Out of nowhere she felt this wave hit her. And now her whole body doesn’t feel right. It felt buzzy, and unstable. She looks down at her shaking hands as they flash in and out of existence, like the static TV in the room she fell out of. This never happened to her before, and it was scaring her. When she turned around, she saw the body of a different person through her hands, laying where her younger self was before. This was the first time she’s ever seen this woman. The woman moved and opened her eyes.

          “Who the fuck are you?” The green haired woman said as the other turned and looked up to her, then she sat up. The punk girl was really freaked at this point. Knowing what happens next now, she looked up seeing her friend Max pointing a gun at her. “Max no!!” She yelled holding out her hand.

Max fires the gun. Its bullet shot through the woman, through that space, sending it and the woman back to the room she fell out of. The woman, breathing heavily and wide eyed, stares at the hole where the bullet broke the mirror. It would have shot through her right shoulder. She gasped at the sight, then turned away closing her eyes. She took a moment to gather her thoughts, trying really hard to convince herself that was just a dream. ‘That felt to real this time… No, no. I can’t take this anymore… There’s only one person in this fucking world that can help me understand this shit. But why do I keep hallucinating her pointing a gun at me?’ She stares at herself for a moment. She was shaking a little from anxiety. Then she goes into her pocket and pulls out a keychain that she religiously keeps in her pants. She sighs with relief, feeling the softness of the hairs, thinking of the person who it used to be attached to.

Every time her life got too hard for her, whatever the circumstances are at the time. She would hold that keychain, pet it. And it always cleared her mind and made her feel better.

          “What is going on in there?! Where the hell is the band?!” The woman snaps out of that thought now feeling better and puts the keychain back in her pocket. She walks to the door and opens it with an angry look.

          “I just told you man, it’s a fucking plague zone back here. How about crawling out of my ass and getting us some sawdust and febreeze?!”

Chapter 1

Firestorm

-Mountain State Mind-

(Cue opening Music, Goo Goo Dolls – Black Balloon)

          I’m driving down the road. It was dusk, the feeling of this trip back from N.Y was still fresh in my mind. The show was amazing, and went smoothly thanks to my new agent, Hazel. But still nothing beats home. I pulled over on a scenic view point, turned down my music and turned off the car. I got out and the world exploded into my view. Wow… It was daring me to capture its beauty. The sun was just right, blue butterflies all over the place and a squirrel… Fine… You got me. I went into my trunk, moved around a few things and grabbed my camera and journal. I lined up the right shot and took it. Good. I sat down on the guardrail and started to write.

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January 9, 2024        (Tuesday)

I’m always intimidated when I’m starting a new journal. It feels like I’m supposed to be making some sort of grand statement, especially since I haven’t had much to say since The Storm That Changed Everything (tm) last year.

Well, Safi, that’s somewhere to start, right? Last year, it felt like everything was falling apart when you died. And then I found a world where you were alive, and a new ability to jump between realities. And then everything really did fall apart, until you and I managed to put it back together.

– Turns page –

Even though you left Safi, I was feeling so happy. We found each other. People who we could be ourselves with... who we loved dearly. At least I think you love me... Your kiss spoke volumes.

And just when I was finally feeling happy that I found someone. You go and text me Chloe. Hearing from you shattered that peace. And it wasn’t fair... I stared at your text for hours, confused, wondering why the fuck do you even care... I wanted to write back to you so many times, but I just can’t. There’s just so many things I want to say to you… I would blow up your phone and you would just ignore me all over again. I’m so sorry Chloe. Who knows though. Maybe this journal is my attempt to find the right words to say to you.

Coming up with these conclusions. Given the choice between you Chloe, or anyone else... maybe even Safi. I would always choose you. And I hate myself for that...

Huh… moving on from that, there’s very little to report. Same place, same house, same life. After so many years of endlessly moving around, one adventure to the next, I’ve suddenly found myself dunno, cocooned?

          But in other ways, I’ve been going through a bit of a metamorphosis.

– Turns page –

Since I decided to stay at Caledon, Yasmin asked me to teach full-time. I was shocked, I thought she was joking. But after attending a few of my workshops, she was confident I could do it. And, here’s the second shock, it looks like she was right.

1. Love. Teaching. I care about my students and being the kind of teacher who nurtures them in a way mine never did (to put it mildly). Maybe that’s enough. For now, it definitely is. But for how long?

It’s not that I feel stuck exactly. But… Is this what I’ve been building towards all this time? Am I ready to commit to this place, to this version of me? Oh, I just don’t know…

– Turn page and writes –

September 13, 2024        (Friday)

Living life as a teacher these past few months have been amazing. But at the same time, it’s starting to feel confining. Maybe that’s why I said yes when my agent Hazel, (which, holy crap, I have an agent now!!) That’s a story, suggested I spend the weekend in New York. Maybe I can get my “on the road” fix while still putting down some roots. But then she sent me some interview questions in advance, and uggggghhh…

“Where do you get your inspiration from?” Is it too weird to say that I’m inspired by death? Not inspired, exactly. Driven by death? Defined by death? -Shrugs- What the hell would someone say to that? “Sorry about your weird life?” “Stop crying on my notes?” -Shrugs-

Actually this is a reporter Safi, so the next question would be “Then why is your work so much less depressing lately? No urban landscapes, no rusted rebar. You’re even getting into portraiture.”

And yeah. I guess Caledon has been good for me. It feels alive in a way that doesn’t hurt anymore. I’d already broken into every derelict building and bowling alley last year. So this year I just kind of… learn how to live with the living again.

See, this is why I don’t do interviews…

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          I stopped writing when my phone started ringing and buzzed like someone just texted me. I go into my back pocket then looked at my phone. It was from Moses…

– Texts –

Moses, Max

Moses

Are you back? Are you safe?

Of course I’m safe, still on the road. What’s going on?

Moses

Good, then stay away for now. There’s some kind of attack on campus.

Oh my Stars. What’s happening? Are you okay?

Moses

I’m heading to the observatory. There are students trapped.

Moses

It’s a fire. Spreading quickly. Really bad.

Moses

Stay away. I’ll let you know when it’s clear.

No! I’m coming to help!

I’ll be there soon. STAY SAFE!

And from there, I ran back to my car and stomped on the pedal.

-Emergency Response-

          When I got to the school everything was chaos. The observatory was on fire. When I got out of the car I ran and I kept seeing protesters signs everywhere. Abraxas logo Xed out with the word killer below it, and a flier that said Loretta’s march on it… What the fuck is going on?... I ran again. I could hear people in the building screaming to get out. I even saw one of them pounding on the glass doors, begging me to help. I felt so helpless... because I couldn’t do anything even though I tried...  I almost rolled up into a ball and covered my ears… The screaming of people burning to death… Oh Stars… But I ran, and went to go find Moses. When I got to the steps, I saw that the whole school was on fire… like a raging storm of biblical proportions. Every inch within a mile was covered in flames. I was only gone for three days for fucks sakes…

          “Max help!” I heard my name. I turned to see Moses holding someone.

          “Moses! Hold on, I’m coming!” I dropped my camera as I ran up to the door. When I tried opening it, it burned me. I yelled and took back my hand, waiting for the pain to stop.

          “Max, hurry! The roof is caving in!” I looked around for anything then I ran towards the building. “Nononononononono…” Moses yells and falls in.

          “Moses!” Then there was an explosion. It knocked me back and I passed out.

When I came to, everything hurt… I didn’t know how long I was out for. So rewind wouldn’t be useful. But there is one thing for sure, Moses and everyone here is dead… No… No… No… Breathing heavily I looked around again and saw my photo… It must have blown out of my pocket in the blast. With great effort, I grabbed it. It was my selfie I took on the overlook just before I left. I stared hard. So hard the picture moved. Then I felt something pull me back.

And when I landed, I gasped and opened my eyes. I turned seeing the school was okay… I did it… I went back… Oh fuck… I hope I don’t make another shit storm. I stood up… I got to tell Moses.

Firestorm Pt 2

Testing, Truth

-Time Dojo-

          On the way to Moses, I had to call my agent and tell her I couldn’t go to the show. When I got to Moses himself, I couldn’t help but hug him. I was almost in tears at this point, and he was also in the middle of having a conversation with the new boss Teller.

          “Well, very highly regarded, it seems.” Teller said. I pulled away from Moses and smiled… Then dropped my smile when I looked to Teller.

          “Huh…” Shit, I couldn’t think of anything to say.

          “Max? You okay?” Moses asked.

          “Sorry. Long day. You were saying?” I looked to Teller.

          “I was just telling Moses that he is officially invited to join the Caledon faculty once he becomes Dr. Murphy next year.”

          “Right, the job offer! I remember.” They both are staring at me like I have ten heads… Oh shit, me now is not supposed to know that yet… I scrambled to think of something. “I mean… It was a forgone conclusion. Moses is the best.” I looked to Moses and nodded. “Congratulations.”

          “Thanks. I’m still taking it in. But President Teller’s plans for the physics department are very exciting.” Moses said.

          “This building is the one real investment that Caledon has made in the sciences. With four departments under one roof, we need to expand. And that’s just the beginning. In a few years the whole school will look like this. A cutting- edge research institution to rival MIT.” That sounds like he’s going to be cutting out art.

          “I thought most students came to Caledon for liberal arts.”

          “Currently, yes. But if we want to remain competitive and move past events of last year Caledon needs to modernize. Dr. Fayyad was a great leader, and she had an eye for talent. Finding Moses was one of her many successes… But she had an idealistic streak. Which reminds me, Max do your students still have all As?” Teller asked.

          “Everyone who’s still in the class has an A. But plenty of students dropped when they realized how tough it would be.”

          “I noticed that, too. Not the academic curve we strive for, but perhaps that wasn’t covered in your orientation.” I got a little annoyed.

          “No it wasn’t, because it isn’t in there.” I spat out. Moses looks to me with wide but calm eyes.

          “Max isn’t a traditional academic, but she’s amazing with her students. Like you said, Yasmin has an eye for talent. She was even talking about creating a photography major.” Moses added to break the tension.

          “It’s not that I doubt your talent, Max. You’re just a… beneficiary of her shortsightedness.” I widen my eyes hearing that… Ohh shut the fuck up. “I mean, a professor… Sorry, an “Instructor” with no teaching experience or terminal degree, living rent-free in the house that was once reserved for visiting luminaries?” He laughs which made me angrier. “It’s like, how was this allowed to happen?” There was no fucking way I was going to let this slide. My inner Chloe came out.

          “First off. Thank you for telling me what kind of person you are. And second, no one ever starts with the experience of someone who has been teaching for ten years. That’s what learning is, and Yasmin saw I could handle it. And she was right. And third, it seems like you have an act of insulting people who work under you… Now was that in your orientation?” I stared at him. He shifted uncomfortably in his spot, then he cleared his throat.

          “Well. Duty calls. Moses, contact my office if you have any questions about the offer.” He just walks away… I stared at him as he closed the door. I sighed.

          “I’m pretty sure I’m getting fired soon, after that.” I added. Moses didn’t comment about that and just got right to it.

          “You already knew about my job offer.” He added. Oh… “But you had to remember. So you’re not rewinding from later today, are you?”

          “No. I’m back from Sunday.”

          “Did you jump back into a photo? We agreed that that was too dangerous!”

          “The alternative was worse Moses. I had to risk it.”

          “What happened? Did something go wrong with the gallery show?” I shook my head.

          I told him everything that led me to my actions, his death, which made him very pale to hear. And the whole campus gone in a fire. And we agreed it was the best course of action. Then he had me do some tests to sharpen my skills for the road ahead. Now, we are preparing to try and stop this from repeating.

          “How are you feeling? About the disaster I just dropped into your lap?”

          “Still processing. But I’m glad that we still have a chance to do something. How do you feel?”

          “I know my powers are…” I chortled. “But that doesn’t mean they’re dependable… This could end badly Moses. What if it was a mistake to come back here? That did back fire in my face before in the past. And I made it so much more worse.”

          “I know you told me. But there are risks. There’s a reason we never tested your ability to jump into photos. But our testing has proved that some kinds of rewinds are safe. If you un-break a mug, the universe doesn’t seem to care.”

          “But the school isn’t a mug Moses. Trying to stop a major catastrophe? This is where the bad shit starts happening.”

          “We won’t try to change everything. But if we figure out where and how the fire started, we might be able to change the thing that matters.” I nodded. “Let’s take stock. What do we know for sure? What leads do we have?”

          “Vinh and Amanda could help us. Vinh knows everything about Caledon, and Amanda knows everything about Lakeport. Too bad I can’t tell them why I’m asking, they’d never believe me.”

          “Because of the storm amnesia?”

          “Need a better name for that. It sounds like a disease you get in a fantasy novel.”

          “Well, you turned down “Cognitive-dissonance-triggered-collective- memory-loss.” I shook my head at the mouth full.

          “Some times I wish everyone still remembered. The two timelines, and everything with Safi and me having powers.”

          “You could remind them. You reminded me, when I started forgetting.”

          “I was selfish. It was scary when all their memories started fading. I couldn’t stand the thought of being alone with everything again.”

          “Understandable. But why me?” I chuckled.

          “I knew you could handle it. But most people aren’t you. It’s better if they don’t know.”

          “Even Amanda and Vinh?”

          “Even Amanda and Vinh.”

Firestorm Pt 3

Losing Focus

-Class Act-

          From Moses’s office, I ran down to the Quad, where my students were already there and I was very late. I put my bag and case down. “I’m sorry!” I cleared my throat. “So sorry. Crazy day. Crazy, crazy day.” I stand there catching my breath. Loretta raises her hand then speaks.

          “Because of your grand gallery tour of New York this weekend? I’m amazed you didn’t ditch us entirely.”

          “Yeah, you must be freaking out. When do you leave?” Reggie said. I stared at him.

          “Thanks Reggie.” He nods. “I’m not. There’s been a change of plans. The trip has been… postponed.” Loretta stands coming over to me.

          “I’m sorry, Max. Professional setbacks are always tough. Give yourself time to grieve, okay?” She touched my upper arm and nodded… Wow… uh…

          “Okay, I said postponed… not canceled. But thanks.” Loretta sits back down. “Now…” I get myself in teacher mode and smirked. “Let’s get to today’s lesson. So, we’ve been focusing on composition. Character of place, dynamic structure. Light, balance, movement, contrast… If you’ve been paying attention so far, when, you look out there,” I turned looking out into the Quad and waved my hand. “your eyes should find endless patterns of shapes and colors. But today, I want you to see something else entirely.” I nodded then turned back to my students. “I’ll give you a hint. It’s the most powerful element a photographer can pursue, yet it’s the one thing a photograph can never really have.” I looked to my students thinking about which one I should pick. “Jeannette. What do you think?” She paused for a moment.

          “Secrets.” I nodded.

          “Woah. Deep.” Loretta added sarcastically. I pointed to her as a warning, then smiled.

          “That’s a good guess, but I’m thinking of, life. Human life, specifically. It’s aaall around us. Sometimes, it’s overwhelming. I know it is for me. But when I turn my camera on one person and focus on trying to see them… Really see them… I can feel a connection happen through the camera.” I turned to the Quad again and waved. “So, look out there again. Find someone you don’t know. Someone who grabs your attention. Someone you want to connect with. Your assignment today:” I turned back around then pointed. “go take their picture.”

          “Come on. Don’t make us do that.” Mark said.

          “Stranger? Isn’t that dangerous?” Jeannette added.

          “Be reasonable, Max!” Tim added too. I sighed. ‘Now I remember, I got this same reaction the last time I lived through this day. Aaand the assignment was a total dud. Maybe a demonstration would help?’

          “Alright, you… artsy introverts… I, your fearless leader, shall go first. Observe.” I looked around then saw a girl sitting on a bench table alone, reading a book. I went up to her and cleared my throat. “Hey, sorry to bother you.” She looks up to me. “My name’s Max, I’m a photographer.” She paused.

          “I can see that, Max.” I smiled.

          “I’m actually teaching a class and it would save me from looking super lame in front of my students if I could take your picture.” I chuckled then looked back to my class for a moment.

          “I don’t normally let people take my picture. But I’d hate to be the cause of your public humiliation. Shoot.” She closed her book and stood up. “So uh, why was I selected for this demonstration?” She walks up close to me. My heart is pounding; I had to back up.

          “You seemed lost in your book as if the rest of the world wasn’t here. I find that kind of focus exciting.” I smiled. She smirked.

          “Exciting, am I?... But there’s a flaw in your plan.” She starts walking around me, I follow her. “Now that we’ve started talking, whatever you were trying to capture before must surely be gone.” She stops walking. I chuckled.

          “You’re right.” I picked up my camera from my side. “The camera changes things. That’s why I tell my students you’re not capturing reality, you’re composing it.” She smirked walking closer again. This time I didn’t move.

          “My nerdy physicist friend tells me that’s called the “observer effect.” Particles jumping around just from being looked at.” I blushed a little. Whoa this woman… She’s refreshingly charming. Why isn’t she in my class? I chuckled.

          “I have one of those too. I…” She walks away and sits back down in her spot… My heart is beating so fast. And it’s not from talking to her. ‘Something about this woman suddenly feels very… familiar.’ She posed like she was before and I took the shot. When I looked at the photo, she gets up again.

          “Well? Did you capture my essence?” She stood tall confident, hand on her hip… Wait a minute… I blushed again.

          “I think I captured what you were willing to show me.” She dropped her smile. Oh my Stars… I started breathing heavily.

          “Safi? Is that you?” I whispered. She paused… Oh my Stars… “Safi.” I whispered again. I didn’t care if she was wearing this face. All I wanted was to feel her in my arms. I got closer to her, she backs away putting her hands up. I stopped myself and I have no idea how.

          “It was so nice to meet you, Max. I hope your students.” She emphasized. “found this as enlightening as I did.” I looked over to them for getting they were there. Oh shit…

          “My students… I almost forgot about them.” When I looked back she was walking away from me. Damn it… If I wasn’t with my class right now, I’d be chasing after her. I went back up to my kids annoyed. Safi is back… I want to be with her so badly. I sighed.

          “Everything okay? That looked, intense.” Reggie asked.

          “Yeah, I’m fine. Now go. Spread out. Find your subject. I’ll be around if you need me.” Everyone went off. When I turned to try and find that woman. She was nowhere.

I ran around looking… and nothing. That was her I know it. My phone buzzed. I pulled it out and looked to it. Oh my Stars.

– Texts –

Safi, Max

Safi

I’ve been thinking. Of all the students in the quad, you chose her. Me. How? Could you tell, somehow?

Safi! No… I don’t know. I was as surprised as you were.

Stars Safi I miss you so damn much. Have you come back? I want to see you so freaking badly.

Safi

I know Max. Soon, I promise. I just need to stay hidden a little longer.

Safi please! I can’t wait any longer.

Safi.

Safi!

I put my phone in my back pocket, found a bench, sat down and started to cry with my face in my hands. I allowed myself to cry for 10 minutes. Then I calmed down, cleared my face and stood up. I was still in class so I might as well see what there up to.

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September 20, 2024        (Friday)

Okay let’s recap on things I didn’t write about in my new Journal. Hmm... Thinking back before I jumped, I smelled the fire before I saw it. The smoke was thick by the time I drove into campus. I was already starting to wonder what I could do. If I used my powers, would it help, or just make everything worse? Then I saw Moses, and I stopped thinking at all.

Moses and I have spent this year studying rewind. It took a lot of convincing, but after seeing what happened when Safi lost control of her power, he was certain that the more we know, the safer I’ll be. Moses treats my powers like a question that can be answered not a curse or liability. It’s… been a long time since I’ve felt like that.

We never tested my ability to rewind into a photo, as badly as Moses wanted to study it. After hearing about everything that happened in Arcadia Bay, he agreed it wasn’t worth the risk. And it wasn’t… up until the moment he fell through the roof.

– Turn the page and writes –

One thing was clear, after months of testing: I can theoretically use my powers… all of my powers… without breaking the world. Guess it’s time to test that theory.

What even HAPPENED here? I was gone for a weekend, and everything went to shit. I took crosstalk off my phone (Pros: Productivity boost. Cons: Didn’t hear about a disaster on campus). In his texts, Moses was clearly waiting until I got home to tell me something. But if a violent protest was closing in, would he really be cryptic about it?

Okay, what do we know so far? I heard the cops talking about a house called Fremont that night. That’s where the fire started. And the protest… did Loretta start a mob?? I know she can be tenacious but that would be a new level.

Will Moses think I did the right thing? Thankfully, I don’t have to sit and wonder. He’s still alive. So I can go ask him.

– Turn the page and writes –

Reggie is a good kid and I like him a lot, but he’s a terrible liar. He seemed a little on – edge in the last week, but I thought it was regular school – stress. He’s the president of a secret society that is, very publicly, fighting with Caledon’s president dick head.

I don’t think Reggie ever wanted to be in charge of Abraxas. He just kinda fell into it, when diamond left the school so abruptly. Now he looks like he hasn’t slept in a week, and he’s taking furtive calls during class. Not the typical behavior of my star pupil. I need to find “Fremont House,” And I need to learn what Reggie knows.

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          “Maxine.” I looked up from my journal. Oooh great. On the same day I sees Safi. She shows up. I put my journal away and stand.

          “Yasmin.”

          “What a pleasure to see your face.” She said with a smile.

          “I didn’t know you were back.” She nodded.

          “A lot has happened in the last nine months. Tell me, how have you been, Professor Caulfield?”

          “Good for the most part. The only thing on my new boss’s mind is, whether I should have a job or not.”

          “Don’t worry. Now that I have taken on a more active role on the Board of Regents, I can ensure that Owen does not push you out.”

          “Thank you.” She nods then gets a somewhat sad look.

          “I have something to ask you, Maxine.” Here it comes… “It’s about Safiya.” Yep, it always is… And it always starts fights between us. I honestly think the only reason she keeps me around is because she knows Safi and I have something together. “We haven’t spoken in many months. It has caused tremendous pain.”

          “She only contacted me once Yasmin… Once out of the nine months, she’s been away… I’m in pain too, just as you… maybe even more.” Yasmin looks down looking sadder.

          “I know Safiya has her reasons. There is still so much about that night on the Overlook that I do not understand… I sometimes feel the storm was not natural. It was… a manifestation.” Out of everyone who forgotten, Yasmin, even though she to barely remembers anything, she is the only one who still holds on to the feeling of what really happened that night.

          “I know the feeling.” I nodded. Yasmins sighs.

          “Still, for months afterwards, Safiya would at least answer the occasional message. Or I would see her on social media. But now she has gone completely dark.”

          “I didn’t know. I took myself off of crosstalk.”

          “Then what do you know?”

          “I know nothing Yasmin. Safi is, who Safi is. And I wouldn’t change that.”

          “I sense she may be in some terrible danger Maxine. Perhaps it is to herself. Perhaps it is too others. I don’t know. If I could only know that she was okay…”

          “If she wasn’t I’m sure she would have called me. But she didn’t. I don’t know what you want Yasmin… I have, no, answers. Okay? And that’s probably why she doesn’t talk to me. Because of you… Again. And it’s killing me that I can’t talk to the woman I love… Okay?... I don’t feel like fighting right now. So just leave me alone, please?” Tears roll down my face, and I tried clearing them but they wouldn’t stop. Yasmin stares getting a soft look. She nodded and walks away. I put my bag on and picked up the camera case, and walked back to drop the case off. ‘I need to text Moses about this, and I can’t think on why Safi’s back at the moment. I need to stay focus… On the fire… There’s more at stakes then my loneliness... Oh Safi.’ I went home for the rest of the day, and worked on my student’s class work from last week.

-Open Mic Night-

Later I went to the turtle and hung out, found out more stuff and… won a statue from Vinh the cheater who almost stole it… For once, thank you powers.

Firestorm Pt 4

Cueing Chaos

-Bar Break In-

September 20, 2024 (Friday)

          A truck parks in the closes spot that a car just drove out of. A green haired punk chick just flicked her cigarette out the window then, kicked the door open. ‘I lost my last bar half an hour ago, But I must be pretty close to campus by now.’ She thought then jumped out of her truck, closing the door. Looking at the place she thought, ‘Looks like they do shows here. Wonder if they’re in the market for a pacific Northwest post-industrial femcore band?’ She walks up to the door of the bar when a small man stops her.

          “Hey, so… my buddies and I were wondering… why do all you gender studies chicks have weird hair?” ‘Not even in the bar yet and I’m getting shit from a tiny male asshole… sighs… not my first time.’

          “Gender studies, is that how they built the special microscope you use to find your dick?” The guy’s friend start laughing in the back.

          “She savaged you!” His friend shouted.

          “Yeah, she’s way into you, Ren. Get her number.” ‘Aww… On a normal night I might think about kicking this guy’s ass. But, I don’t have time for this.’ The punk girl ignored him and went to walk in the bar. But the guy grabbed her shoulder turning her.

          “Hold on, I.” The punk chick pushed the tiny man off of her and he falls to the ground.

          “Back off, dude!” She shakes her head and was about to walk in, when this muscle mommy of a stud cop woman walks out, looking at them.

          “What happened here?” She asked. The punk chick was about to say something until the small guy stands up and speaks to the cop.

          “It’s nothing, Noelle. We were just messing around.”

          “The snapping Turtle has a strict no fighting policy. You’re both out.” ‘The fuck!’

          “Come on!” The punk chick shouted to the cop.

          “Be thankful I don’t put you on the banned list. Leave. Now.” She said turning around and walked into the bar. ‘God fucking damn it!’

          “I’m sorry.” The punk chick looked to the small man. “My friends and I were just…” He sighs and looks down. “Sorry.” The punk chick can see he meant it. She shakes her head.

          “Don’t worry about it. I’ve been teeing off on drunk bros at dive bars since junior high. But I really could have used a bite.” He looked up to her, paused then pointed.

          “Looked like the back patio is open. Noelle probably won’t notice.” She looks then nods.

          “Thanks.” He nods and walks back to his friends. ‘Kicked out of a bar before I even step foot in it. That’s a new record… Now for that patio.’

The punk chick made her way to the back, and jumped over the railing. The moment she was about to open the door a woman smoking spoke up.

          “Wait!” The punk chick stops and turns to her. “Don’t I know you?” The woman stands up staring at her, like she studying. Then she shakes her head flicking her cigarette to the side then crosses her arms.

          “Max’s blue haired girl.” ‘What?’ The punk chick thought as the woman gets closer to her, causing the punk chick to tense. “Are we in that horrible place again?” The woman asked almost looking scared. The punk chick was weirded out by this.

          “Not to be rude, but who the fuck are you?” The woman slowly moved closer, keeping the punk chick’s eyes on hers. Then the woman grabs the punk chick’s hand, and now, both her and another woman was standing in the hell world she was afraid of. They both look up seeing the lighthouse, then they both see Max slowly walking towards them with a camera… then a gun. This is when the punk chick shields her eyes and struggled to get her hand free.

          “Let go of me!” punk chick yelled.

          “Wait I need to see.”

          “Get the fuck off of me!” The Punk Chick yelled then punch the other woman dead in the face. The other woman lets go, and the both were back at the bar, breathing heavily. The other woman is holding her eye with her left hand. The Punk Chick looks to her waiting for a reason to hit her again.

          “Well… This is interesting.”

          “I should snap you in half.” The woman chuckled still holding her eye.

          “See you around Chloe.” Chloe watches her run then jump over the railing. She shook her head feeling pain in her neck. Then she walked into the building, wondering who the fuck that was.

-Lying In Waiting-

          Chloe sat at the bar and ordered food and a beer. The whole hour, after she studied her surroundings, she was sitting there, and all she was thinking about was how is she going to talk to Max.

          “We’re starting to close up shop, but you can hang out for a bit if you need.” The bartender said. Chloe nods and smirked thinking she was cute.

          “Thanks, I’ll try not to linger too long.”

          “You hear that, Professor. Last call.” She said and he pointed to his glass wanting another drink. The bar tender looks up not liking that then gets him one last drink. ‘Ok, let’s practice again… Hhhey Mmmax, it’s me, that girl you don’t text back… Fuck that sounds to aggressive… Umm… shit… How’ve you been? Cool, well I’ve been having recurring nightmares of you killing me… God… and I think I’m going insane… I can’t say that… Hey Max, it’s me, your sexy exy. Want to unpack our trauma together.’ Chloe chuckled shaking her head. ‘No… Hey Max, remember I left you in a motel room with a shitty break up letter? No? Me neither…’ She shook her head and sighed looking around the bar again. She gets a sad thought. ‘Hey Max, what a nice stable life you got here. Girlfriend, boyfriend, actual friends?... It’s cool. I’ll go be a disaster somewhere else... What am I doing.’ She shakes her head again. She looks at the bartender not wanting to think about this anymore.

          “Appreciate you letting me grab a bite before the kitchen closes.” She turns and comes up to Chloe.

          “No worries. It was a busy night, plenty of mop up to do.”

          “How close are we to Caledon University?”

          “Two minutes by car. Ten by foot. By electric scooter… depends on your sense of balance.” They both chuckled.

          “So this is like a Caledon bar?”

          “Iiit’s a lot of things. But yeah, we get plenty of students and faculty here. What brings you around?” The bartender gives a soft smile. Chloe catches on and is tickled by that.

          “Uhm… I’m visiting someone on campus. I haven’t seen her in a, really long time. I’m kind of nervous, to be honest.” Chloe laughs. “I guess I’m stalling until I can figure out what I wanna say when I see her. The real problem is… I don’t… think the right words actually exist.”

          “Ooooh. She must be pretty important to get you all fucked in the head like that.”

          “She’s the most important person in my life. And has been for pretty much as long as I can remember, that’s why I love her. But the problem is, our lives don’t really fit together anymore.” Saying that out loud hurt her a little.

          “Yeah, I’ve been there… Look, I don’t normally go in for the whole wise bartender schtick.” She makes peace signs with her fingers. “but in my opinion, there are precious few people on this earth worth giving a shit about… If you’ve found one of’em, and it sounds like it to me, you’re one of the lucky ones. And then none of the other shit matters.” That made Chloe think, and feel a little better “Just my opinion.” The bartender said then backed up.” Check’s on the bar when you’re ready.” Chloe nods then grabs some money from her wallet, putting it on the bar.

As she was about to leave that muscle mommy stud cop saw her on the way out of the bathroom.

          “Hey didn’t I kick your ass out?!” She walks over fast to Chloe as she sits back down. “You’re going on the banned list. Are you a student?” Noelle asked.

          “N, no…”

          “Good. Then I’m banning you from campus too. Name?” ‘Shit… haven’t done this in a while. Think... Okay.’ Chloe smirks and turns to Noelle confidently.

          “Thing is… I’m actually a prospective graduate student. I’m here to visit campus.”

Chloe managed to convince Noelle, with the help of the professor that was sitting next to her, not to band her. This is where Noelle’s radio goes off. And everyone listens.

          “Hearing about a lot of activity at 3180 Fremont street. Is the demolition scheduled for tonight?”

          “Uhh, new to me. I did drive by earlier and saw an adult female in the area. Looked a little shady, I doubt she was with the demo crew.” The professor stands.

          “Oh, shit. I think I know who the “shady” woman was. But they wouldn’t do the demolition tonight without warning, right?” The professor asked Noelle.

          “Who are you talking about? Noelle asked.

          “Professor Caulfield.” Is all Chloe heard then ran out the door widen eyed. ‘Max!’

–––⁂––––– })|({ –––––⁂–––

-Fremont Street-

Now I’m at the Abraxas house. I took some snap shots, read a bunch of stuff, clues, and now I’m following some strange supernatural fireflies to the basement.

-More than Meets the Eye-

          Looking at this place was like walking around a spooky house from those Sooby-doo cartoons. Nothing I’m not use to… I just closed the door and I heard footsteps. I opened some barn doors and the first thing I see is an altar. ‘I just found my first fire hazard. This is insane.’ I thought, then slowly walked in more. Out of nowhere I heard a camera go off and Loretta. We both jumped and she drops the camera.

          “Ahh, shit, shit.” Loretta picks up the camera. “Oh, hey Max.”

          “Loretta…”

          “I was just getting in some extra-curricular shooting down here. Cool spot, huh?” I chuckled.

          “Really. What are you doing here?”

          “I was photographing the Abraxas house. Then you come in.”

          “Yeah. That still didn’t answer my question.” She sighed.

          “Fine. Look around Max. All the secrets about Abraxas are right here. I’m finally going to uncover them tonight…” She paused. “Question is, what are you doing here, Max? Are you connected to Abraxas? We can keep this off the record for now.”

          “I don’t have any association to Abraxas. But a lot of my students are. That’s all.” There was another pause.

          “But you do know something. You have a lot more going on than meets the eye, don’t you?” She needs to leave…

          “Loretta, you need to leave now.”

          “I’m not going anywhere until you tell me what’s up.” On a normal day I would have just brushed off this kind of behavior. But I don’t have time for this... literally.

          “You seem to be forgetting the fact that you’re a student and I am faculty. That means I can take disciplinary actions against you if you do not leave now.” She paused.

          “Pulling the “f-card.” Damn. I got everything I needed anyway. See ya around.” She walked away.

          When Loretta tries to leave, it was locked and now we can hear people coming. I used a crowbar to keep the door locked, but now it seems like they’re trying to blow the house up. With my quick thinking, I used wire cutters I found on a shelf, and cut the wires, stopping the explosives from going off. That… even with rewind powers, was by far the third scariest scenario I’ve ever been in. Second seeing Chloe die over and over again, and first being Jefferson. By the time me and Loretta got out the cops started showing up.

          “Loretta run out of here come on.”

          “No! I want to talk to the assholes who tried to blow us up. On the record.” She starts walking away.

          “Loretta!… Oh damn it.” As I was about to run this truck pulls up, it’s lights in my eyes.

(Sparklehorse - Piano Fire)

Someone walks out in front with a big smile on their face. Once I saw who it was, I dropped my jaw and couldn’t move. It was Chloe.

          “Max… Max…” She runs up to me but I couldn’t move. “Max snap out of it.” She slaps her hands together in my face, but I couldn’t move… She’s… She’s here… Chloe looks over seeing something and mutters. “Damn it.” She then picks me up over her shoulder and runs us back to the truck. She puts me in, slams the door, and gets in herself… herself and I couldn’t believe it. All I can do is stare at her… Oh my Stars… Chloe. My heart won’t stop pounding.

Chapter 2

Happy Birthday!

-Reunion-

          The next morning, I wake up with a gasp. I fell asleep on my stairs? I rubbed my eyes then remembered somewhat of what happened. Chloe... I quickly looked over hoping, praying that what happened last night wasn’t a dream... And it wasn’t. She was sleeping on my bed. Oh Stars... I got up, and sat down on the box at the end of my bed. Watching her… the memories of what she said to me last night still rang in my ear.

          “And then her walkie went off, and I hear that someone was creeping around in an abandoned building. I didn’t.” She yawned. “Didn’t really need the skeezy professor to tell me it was you. Max? Your kind of… staring a lot.” I finally snapped out of it enough to talk.

          “I huh…” She smirked at me… which made me almost not talk again. “Sorry. I… think I might be in shock.” She dropped her smile and stared for a moment.

          “Sure. Blast from the past and all.” You have no idea… She closed the door. “Max, we have a lot to catch up on. But I’ve been awake since Indianapolis.” I widen my eyes.

          “Oh… oh. Huh, yeah. Take my bed.” I pointed up. “We’ll talk in the morning.”

          “Thank you for understanding.” I nodded as she barely made it to the top and on the bed.

The ten thousand times I played this moment out in my head, I could never figure out what to say to her… If I even saw her again... What do I say to her now? She made it clear to me she never wanted to see me again. So why is she here? I hear more memories in my head.

          “You gonna sit there all night?”

          “Just resting my legs. It’s been a hell of a long day. I’ll tell you about it in the…” I stopped myself because she snored.

Which that brought the widest happiest smile on my face. Right when I feel like I moved on... and when everything is falling into chaos, she walks in. Like, she heard her cue to fuck shit up… Oh Stars… I forgot how beautiful she is… Before I get the powerful urge to caress her cheek, I stood up and turned away. ‘Okay Max. What’s it going to take to get ready for the most hardest, strangest conversation of your life?’ I started walking down the stairs and looked around. I just noticed it was cold in here… fuck… and Chloe is going to be hungry when she wakes… and she’s going to want coffee if I remember correctly. Note to self, call someone and have them deliver food to my house. Got nothing in the fridge besides film. Aaahhggg.

I went to the kitchen, plated a blueberry muffin then got the coffee going. Then I see Chloe’s parking job. I barely remembered getting to my front door or even telling her where I lived… Huh, that can’t stay there… Then I turned on my fireplace and went through Chloe’s bag and found her keys… I’m glad she didn’t stick them in her pockets. If she had that would be a weirder conversation. I went out to go move her gigantic truck. Chloe always liked trucks more than cars… which I didn’t mind. She did most of the driving anyway. When I got back, I opened the door and there she was. Just like a prom date walking down the stairs. Beautiful, graceful, and smiling. Oh how I missed her smile. This woman…

          “Tryin’ to steal my truck?” I chuckled. Hearing her heavenly voice made my senses go on fire… stop saying fire… She walks up to me, close enough that I can smell her... I missed her scent.

          “Just… joy-riding it to a parking space.”

          “Hmm… How long has it been? A year? A decade? I’m… not really sure anymore.”

          “Four and a half years.” I muttered. “Why are you here Chloe? Not that I’m incredibly happy to see you.”

          “Yyeahh.” She rubs the back of her neck. “Got some expainin’ to do.” She said walking off to the kitchen. Chloe would never just come to me like this... unless it’s really bad. I followed her like I always do then stood next to her. She leans on the counter. “And before you say anything, I know. I shoulda called first. I just figured I’d know what the fuck to say when…” She looked away from me looking guilty. “When I was lookin’ at you.” I better calm down or my heart is going to beat out of my chest.

          “Um… Okay.” I walked to the other side of the counter so she can see me. “Floor is yours.” She pauses for a moment.

          “Lately, I keep getting these…” She chuckled. “I don’t know, visions? It’s been happening for a minute, but they’re getting worse.” That’s not good… “It seemed like maybe some… time fuckery took place, so I figured I’d come and ask the time fucker herself.” Oh… I see… I sighed feeling slightly disappointed, but at the same time I did call it. You know what... I don’t care… I’m just so happy she’s here... In my house.

          “What kind of visions?” I asked.

          “A… tumble-dryer of madness. It’s like an acid trip, except I didn’t even get to take acid… And lately, I keep seeing this dark-haired woman. Who just so happens to be on your photo wall. Who’s Safi?”

          “Who?” I said totally forgetting about her for a moment... ‘Ohhh shit…’ I thought loudly as my brain caught up. Then Chloe’s godly face glowed brightly in the sun light. I couldn’t help but stare at her for a second. This woman is making it hard for me to keep on point. Looking at her is causing my senses to overload.

          “Safi was my friend. Last year, she went through a hard time, did a lot of damage and left the school.”

          “Ah… But, did she graffiti the girl’s bathroom on her way out?” She chuckled. “Not that it’s a competition or anything.”

          “No but she did worse than that.” I muttered.

          “Who’s the other friend on your dresser then?” She started walking towards the stairs then pointed. “Another friend name Safi?” I quickly went over to stop her from going up. Why does this feel like I’m trying to explain to her, that I didn’t cheat on her… This is leading to a fight... I can feel it.

          “It’s the same person Chloe… Safi can shapeshift.” She widens her beautiful eyes in surprise, then chuckled.

          “So this place is, what? Like some freaky power academy?”

          “No, not at all. It’s a… coincidence. As far as I know.” Chloe shakes her head looking mad and sighs and walked in to my Livingroom.

          “Never a dull fucking moment with you.”  I knew it. We’re going to fight. I never liked seeing her mad... but, If I’m being honest. I haven’t seen her angry in a long time…  And I’m enjoying every minute of it… I think there might be something wrong with me… I followed her like I always do, then she turned to me. “Any idea why your friend is in my dreamscape? Or is that a coincidence too?”

          “I’m not sure. What else you see in your vision, besides her?” Chloe turns and stares out my window.

          “I see… a storm, destroying Arcadia Bay. And my mom’s grave… I-I know the town is fine, and my mom’s alive, but-but it feels so…” What the hell…

          “What do you mean? Chloe, the town was destroyed. Over a decade ago.” She turns to me looking surprised again.

          “Sooo… you must be the real crazy one then, because I just drove through Arcadia Bay a month ago. Had lunch with my mom at the two whales.” Hearing that I was shocked.

          “I don’t know what’s happening, but there definitely was a storm. And I’m so sorry, but your mom didn’t make it Chloe.” Chloe chuckled again then pulled out her phone looking annoyed.

          “Okay, it’s pretty messed up for you to make me prove something like this but… Voila.” She messes with her phone then shows me. “A selfie from my mom’s ‘gram, stardate one month ago.” It was a picture of her and Joyce together. I widen my eyes and I almost started crying.

          “Joyce is alive? And the fucking town?!”

          “It’s right where we left it.” She walked away towards the window again then turned to me looking like I’m about to piss myself. “So, those horrible visions… those are what? Your memories?”

          “Yes, of what actually happened. Or at least what happened to me… or you with me, or what I thought you… Ahhh.” I rubbed the left side of my face. “Oh shit!... How do we have two separate realities? And how is Arcadia Bay standing again?”

          “I spent three thousand miles of tire because I thought you might have those answers.”

          “I don’t... Yet. Right now, I just can’t believe how incredible this is. I’ve been mourning our home for so long and now it’s back? If it’s real then, something incredible has happened.” I thought about that... And it blew my mind. We both didn’t have to hurt anymore... Or the loss of her mom. Chloe looks to me with her beautiful azure eyes, which made me snap out of that thought, then into another one that might be connected. “Hold on, let’s back up for a moment. When did the vision start? Was it just before Christmas?” Chloe gets a puzzled look.

          “How did you know that?” Well that confirms it.

          “Last December, my friend Safi lost control of her power. She had sort of a… mental breakdown.”

          “Breakdown… as in, she broke the foundations of space and time?”

          “Well, she had help.” I moved to Chloe side again. “For a while, there were two separate realities. One where Safi was alive, one where she was dead. I managed to merge them back together.” I grabbed a piece of paper and showed Chloe. “But maybe I merged more than that?...” I put it down. “It’s only a theory. We should talk to my friend Moses. He’s been studying my powers, he’ll want to hear about your visions.” She stares at me. Instead of getting more angry like I thought she would, she gets a soft look on her face. One I knew too well.

          “Talkin’ like you want me to stick around.” My heart leapt hearing that. And I smiled and spoke the truth.

          “Oh Stars yes.” She smiled softly.

          “That’s a relief. I wasn’t sure where we were. Your non-response to my text felt kinda loud.” Damn it...

          “It wasn’t meant to be Chloe. I just had no clue what to say. And I still don’t, to be honest... I feel like everything between us back then just got sooo…”

          “Deeply and thoroughly fucked?” She walked over to the couch.

          “I was going to say… complicated… I-I didn’t know I could love someone so much… and be so angry… arguing for a month solid over the stupidest stuff... Then you left. I felt like my whole world broke into pieces.” I looked down. “For the longest time. I didn’t know how to move on.” Chloe sighed.

          “Me too... I just knew I had to.” I looked to her, and started feeling that pain again. I can feel the tears welling up that I’m desperately trying to bite back.

          “I can describe the motel room in detail.” I get closer to her. “I can recite your letter word for word… But for the life of me... I couldn’t tell you why.” One tear managed to fall. And as quickly as it dropped, I wiped it away. “Why did we actually break up?” There was a pause as Chloe gave it a minute.

          “I know my reality might not be… fully real. But even in what I remember there so much baggage, the storm. Jefferson… Rachel…” Hearing that name leave her lips… Good to know after all these years I still can’t stand it.

          “Your right, our unwillingness to talk about our… traumas… And I could never get past the idea that you blamed me for the storm.”

          “I never blamed you.” She said softly.

          “I know… I do. I think part of me wanted you to. Like my guilt didn’t think I deserved to be happy.” Chloe gave it a minute again, then she shook her head.

          “I know you weren’t rewinding when we were together.” Hearing her say that, I got so emotional tears roll down my face. That was one of the biggest things we fought over. She gave me a minute to get a hold of myself. I took a deep breath, dried my face and calmed down.

          “I’m sorry.” She didn’t acknowledge my apology, because she knows why I lost it just now. I nodded to her to continue. “Your powers still hung over everything. Like an 800-pound time-bending gorilla.”

          “I know how badly you struggled with them. And I hated it. I never wanted to lose your trust. One of the many reasons I stopped using them. Being the only one in the world that had powers made me feel inhuman. But it took me years, Chloe. To figure out that… they were still a part of me, even when I ignored them.” She nods, giving herself a moment.

          “We were growing apart Max. I was getting into the music scene, you were catching on as an artist. Late night mosh pits, early morning photo shoots. Cheap whiskey, wine and cheese. It just… started to break.” I thought about that and sighed. I hate it that she’s right.

          “I’m so sorry. I always thought I was letting you down Chloe. Always. But you finally found something you loved, after all the shit we dealt with.” I shrugged. “I couldn’t keep up.” There was a pause between us. “Is there anything else?” Chloe stares getting a sad but an annoyed look on her face, shaking her head.

          “At this point, does any of it matter?” She walked away a little with me following her. Then she turned back to me. “Are we even the same people we were then?” I don’t understand this. Why is she getting like this?

          “I don’t think we are Chloe. We grew into ourselves. And that’s what terrifies me. I think that’s what did always terrify me.” I hesitated to say my next sentence. “But that promise that we made to each other... Is the promise still real?” I wanted to hold her so badly... So, so badly. I miss her so damn much. Chloe was about to talk but then stopped when there was someone knocking on my door.

          “Professor Caulfield? It’s Security!” I walked over to it blank faced, trying to clear this emotional roller coaster.

          “Wha- what are you doing? Don’t answer!”

          “We’re adults, we don’t need to hide from the security guard anymore.” As I’m about to open the door Chloe panics.

          “Max. Max. Max Max…” She hides behind the door.

          “Good morning, Professor. Did you park your car near the Abraxas house last night?”

          “Yes, I was coming home last night and my car died.” I said very convincingly, and with a smile.

          “Okay Professor. Just make sure to move it. That area is not safe.”

          “I will thank you.”

          “And keep an eye out. I broke up a bar fight last night.” I widened my eyes hearing that… Now I know why Chloe is hiding. I wanted to laugh. “I believe tensions are running high between students and Lakeport residents.” I looked to Chloe behind the door as she started making a jerk off gesture with a smile. I want to laugh so bad… keep it together Max…

          “Thank you… For the heads up. I will move my car first chance I get.” I waved and she nodded and walked away. As soon as I closed the door. I burst out laughing. So did Chloe as we walked towards my living room again. “You’re the worst!” Chloe turns and gasped sarcastically, as if saying ‘how dare you.’ “Was that really you last night?”

          “You shove one townie and suddenly you’re a danger to the school pfft.” She walked into the living room. “Professor Caulfield.” Has a ring to it.” She sits down on the couch.

          “My new Boss doesn’t seem to think so… As he puts it, I’m just Instructor Caulfield.” I sat down myself then looked to her with a smile. And just like that, all my pain went away with her smile, and now, her face was the only thing I see in this room. It’s brighter than the sun.

          “Do you like teaching?” I paused thinking about that.

          “Yes. It’s amazing. My students are so curious, and so smart!... I haven’t had the best experiences with education, as you know… But…”

          “But you can make sure that they do. That’s cool.” I nodded.

          “Yeah.”

          “And, you’ve been here for what, a year?” I nodded. “Make any friends? Date any babes?” She smiled. I thought that was an odd question… then I started feeling guilty. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to tell her about the short thing I had with Amanda... Not to mention Safi... But if she’s staying around for a while, which I pray to the Stars she will. I want to prove to Chloe that I’m better than I was, stronger and an open book... No more hiding.

          “Last year I had two good friends. Almost started something with one of them but now. I have one good friend, and a shapeshifter...” I sighed, not really wanting to say this. “Whom I share ideological differences with... And she started something with me before it could go anywhere.” Chloe widens her eyes looking a little shocked.

          “Wow… Max.”

          “Chloe. I never thought I’d see you again... Which I’m pretty sure you had your own relationships.” I was surprised to see this strong reaction out of her. It kinda made me happy to see she still cares. Chloe paused, looking a little annoyed, and changed the subject.

          “Um... Not that I wasn’t happy to do it, but wanna tell me why I saved your ass from a demolition site?”

          “Only if you’re ready for more time fuckery.” Chloe shrugs. “If I don’t do something to stop it, the whole school will be on fire by tomorrow night.” Chloe stared for a moment, then chuckled.

          “Okay, um… so, what does future Max think causes it?”

          “I think it was deliberate… Someone wants to burn down that house, or maybe they want to burn the whole school. It’s hard to say… But what I do know is that my friends, my students, they’re in danger. And now, I don’t know enough to do anything about it.”

          “And you’re sure you want to do something? Not worried about causing a storm?”

          “I’m terrified of it, Chloe. But… I have a better understanding of my powers now. And I can’t just sit back when I have a chance to save everyone.” Chloe stares as I get up to stand. “That house belongs to Abraxas, Caledon’s secret society. And our president had a weird interest in it.” I paced a bit then turned back to Chloe. “I have questions for both.” Chloe stands.

          “That Moses guy you mentioned. Do you think he’d be willing to meet with me?” I walked up to Chloe smiling.

          “I think he’d give his favorite telescope to meet with you. He should be in his office now. I’ll take you.” Chloe paused, staring. Which I was having a hard time not getting lost in her eyes. Which distracted me from what I was originally going to do... What was it again?

          “Hey um… how are you feeling about me being here, with all this… going on?” She walked out from the couch and up to my fireplace, and faced me. My heart was beating out of my chest again. There was so much I wanted to say at the moment, but I didn’t want to freak her out and cause her to leave again... I don’t think I could handle that.

          “Considering the circumstances Chloe. I wish you were a thousand miles away from all this danger. But I would be lying if I didn’t say, I didn’t know I could feel this happy seeing you. You invented a whole new emotion for me.” She stared for a moment, cheeks slightly pink.

          “Wow. You’re welcome. It’s been a while since I saw you in Super Max mode.” I still love it when she calls me that. I went to hold her cheek then stopped, and wound up grabbing her hand instead. My senses are on fire… stop saying fire!

          “Your visions, the fire. We’ll figure it out. I’m just so glad you’re here.” Chloe smiled softly.

          “Well… good. I guess I’ll stick around.” I had to let her go before I do something stupid.

          “Come on. We need to eat something before I take you to see Moses.” I turned and walked back to the kitchen, grabbed two muffins and walked towards the door.

Happy Birthday! Pt 2

No Words…

-Divide and Investigate-

          As we walked through the campus, Chloe’s perfect azure eyes were always looking around with excitement behind them. I feel as if my heart wants to burst. And when we got to the observatory, she got more excited. Her eyes lit up like the sky, and her smile… Dear Stars her smile.

          “Dude, is that what I think it is?” She chuckles. “You assholes have your own observatory?” I couldn’t speak. This was the happiest I’ve ever seen her. And it was stunning. “Oookay. I know we have a fire and an existential crisis to solve, but I am definitely breaking in there tonight.” She turned to me seeing I’m staring again. “Uh, Earth to Max. You good?” I shook my head snapping out of it.

          “Sorry… I’m just… I’m still having a hard time believing it. You’re really here.” Chloe paused.

          “Listen… if I’m gonna feel okay about being here with everything you have going on, I don’t want to be weighing you down.” Even though you are, and this is the worst possible time I can be distracted… I don’t care. I shook my head.

          “You’re not…”

          “Good. Then let’s split up. I’ll go up to the science palace and meet your friend while you go focus on the fire fuckers.” Now my anxiety went through the roof.

          “No!... no… I’ll walk you there.” She smiled.

          “Max, I’ve navigated stairs before.”

          “It’s not just that Chloe. Past tells me bad shit happens when we split up.” She chuckled then taps my shoulder.

          “Go. Get some answers. I’ll call you soon. Okay?” She starts walking away up the stairs. I’m starting to have a panic attack. At this moment the memory of what happened before I jumped into a photo, flashed into my mind. Moses was carrying somebody that night. And when I focused on that memory, I saw who it was. My heart sank into my stomach. It was Chloe he was carrying. I just saw her die, again for the fourth time.

          “Chloe!” She turned around.

          “I’m okay, you goober.” She chuckled. “Now go.”

          “Chloe listen to me.”

          “Max. I will be fine. I’ll call you. Go.” I stood there as she climb the stairs. Just like her… She never listens… But she’s right. I want to tell her now but… She won’t listen… I just hope that doesn’t bite me in the ass later. I sighed staring at her, getting a determined look. ‘This time will be the last time I watch her fucking die... I will stop at nothing, to make sure nothing happens to her ever again.’ I thought then walked away.

-Admin Sleuth-

          After leaving Chloe I headed to the admin building to see what Vinh wanted. During this, Loretta and I got together as a team and did some major investigating. We found out some good things… which I’m surprised. Note to self: it’s good to have a journalism major around. Then I went to Vinh… He had my car towed which pissed me off a little… but looking at it now… I do owe him drinks for that. Sighs, Fucking hell… Anyway, I got Vinh to leave the office, which gave me the opportunity to snoop around Teller’s office. Found something and figured out it was Safi impersonating Teller just now.

-Cat and Max-

          So now it was time to play cat and mouse. Safi and her fucking games… When the hunt became a bust, Safi left the folder with a message. “That was fun! Meet me at the turtle for part 2 XOXO.” That made me annoyed.

-Time in Turtle-

          I just got to the Turtle, and I didn’t waste time. I kept scanning the room but Safi wasn’t in here. So I went outside, and there she was. In her own body this time. I walked up to her.

          “Safi.” She turns around and presents herself with a warm smile.

          “In the flesh.” I smiled seeing her beautiful face.

          “I really hope you’re done with your games Safi… But putting aside everything that just happened, I’m really glad to see you. The real you. I missed you so much Safi.” I noticed Safi was keeping her distance from me. Probably because I almost kissed her earlier today.

          “Awww. I do not deserve you, Max Caulfield.” She said then took a seat at the outdoor table. I followed her. “Sit.” She said and chuckled, and I sat myself and stared. Then I saw that Safi had a black eye.

          “What happened? How did you get the shiner?” Safi paused and got annoyed.

          “Your blue haired girl.”

          “You saw Chloe? Why did she punch you?” She paused again, then smiled for a moment, shaking her head.

          Talking with Safi I learned what I forgot… and I didn’t like it for many reasons. I learned that I hurt the two women I loved more than anything. But I couldn’t think of this at the moment. It will weigh me down and I can't afford that... I texted Chloe after we were done.

-Champlain Problems-

          Ten minutes pass after texting, and I get a tapped my left shoulder. I looked, falling for it every time.

          “Hello ma’am. Can I tell you about our grilled cheese specials today.” She said sitting down. I smiled ear to ear seeing her and chuckled. Her beauty was brighter than the setting sun which cheered me up.

          “Ccchhloe.” I whined.

          “Jeez, okay. You don’t need to act this surprised every time we see each other.”

          “I will never take that for granted again.” We stared at each other for a moment… Bright against the sun… oh Stars… I had to move away from the thoughts of her perfection. “How did it go with Moses?”

          “You did not prepare me for that guy’s office. Holy shit.”

          “That’s not what I meant Chloe.” She drops her smile and sighed.

          “He tried. I’m not fixed yet, as far as I can tell.” I started to worry about that. And I think Chloe saw that. She changed the subject. “What about you? Did you crack the case with the Abrax-holes?”

          “No. I’m at a dead end. But I know Safi is hiding something in her bag. She was too smart to leave it with me.” Chloe smiled.

          “Max… What’s with all the sneaky stuff? Why don’t I just run over there grab what’s in her bag, throw the bag in the water, and give you the stuff.” Chloe moved before I could get a word out.

          “Chloe.” The only thing I hear from around the corner is Chloe saying yoink and Safi started cursing. Then Chloe throws her bag into the water and runs back to me.

          “Here! Take the mask before she comes back and I have to beat her ass.” I was so surprised by this I laughed, then rewind time. I was still laughing when I came out. I have never seen Chloe be so accepting to me like that before.

          “What?”

          “Safi had an Abraxas mask in her bag. We have it now, thanks to you.” I kept laughing.

          “I have so many questions…” She said then got up. “Uh.. but for now. I think we better run before she realizes she’s missing it. And I have just the getaway.” I get off my chair with a smile and run with her to the end of the dock.

We laughed then she got in the canoe. She offers her hand and helped me get in. After that we both pushed off. I grabbed the ore and rowed out a bit.

          “Did I say something badass, like ‘it’s time to fight fire with fire”? Chloe asked as I put the ore down.

          “You did not. I thought about it but decided it would be stupid… At least, coming from me.” Chloe paused looking like she’s thinking.

          “I bet I loved being a part of it. Using your powers. I bet it felt… exciting. Like… being in on it again, after all this time.”

          “Always, ever since that day at Two Whales. I think I would have gone insane a long time ago without you as my confidant.”

          “But it’s weird. That version of me that just fucked with your friend… what happened to her after you rewound?”  I sighed and decided to give her the smart answer first.

          “Reality is always shifting, but people are a constant. Like this canoe. It bobs back and forth in the lake, but we stay in place…” Chloe just stares at me. “Meaning, “she” is still sitting in front of me. I just simply rewind time and watched you move backwards.” She nods, with a smile. “I know he didn’t fix you, but was Moses able to figure out anything?”

          “Hard to say. I got the feeling he couldn’t decide if he was more interested in helping me or studying me.”

          “What does he think is going on Chloe?” Chloe sighed.

          “The word paradox was thrown around a lot. Also, anomaly.” I was starting to feel afraid again. But she kept going then made a joke about it. And it distracted me from my dread. “Apparently, me and this Safi chick are “cosmically entwined” because we “occupy the same quantum position.” Really, Max, you should buy a girl a drink before you cosmically entwine her next time.” I shook my head.

          “Har har. The fact that you can joke about your existential crisis is… pretty unsurprising.” I chuckled.

          “Thank you much.” Chloe paused then looked to me. “So, your crew here is the sassy bartender, the uber-nerd, and the shapeshifting wildcard. That it?”

          “You make it sound like I’m assembling a team to rob a bank.”

          “Oh, if so then you’re obviously missing someone.”

          “Oh.” I smiled. “Who’s that?”

          “The barbarian. Who else is gonna go berserker on their asses?”

          “Good point. Glad to have you as part of the crew.” I looked out to the Lake, wondering what that would be like. Probably bad… Chloe and Safi would fight all the time. Chloe clears her throat, distracting me from that thought.

          “Hey uhh… I made you something.” ‘Huh?’ I thought. She pulls out a toy from her jacket. “Now that Super Max is back in action, I thought she needed her own badass action figure. Happy birthday.” Not only did she call me Super Max, which I loved, and it made my heart beat out of my chest, she remembered my birthday. She hands it to me. I laugh.

          “This is incredible. With everything going on, I barely remembered today was my birthday.”

          “Good thing my ass is here then…” I paused for a moment just reeling on that.

          “But that’s the thing Chloe. This gift… I love it… But…” I hesitated. “You being here with me… Is the best gift I could ever receive from you.” I smiled warmly. Chloe stares, her cheeks slight pink. There was a long pause of just us staring at one another. “When I was living this weekend the first time, I really thought my life was starting to make some sense… But it seems like chaos always finds me.” There was a pause, and Chloe slowly gets a sad but disappointed look on her face.

          “The only chaos you’re dealing with is me, Max. Everything was fine before I showed up.” I shook my head. “You have a whole new life here. I know I don’t fit into it.” For her to even suggest such a thing...

          “No… That’s not what I meant at all.” She gets an unsure, confused look now.

          “Okay… so try again. And if you rewind, I’ll know.”

          “I wouldn’t dare… I meant, I thought my life was starting to make sense. But I was wrong Chloe. I was to focused on myself, and my career, and everything else. But there was a part of me… maybe the most important part, that was still… lost. I don’t really know how most of this shit works. But somehow, with all this crazy stuff happening, you’re here now… And I know it’s because you needed me. But I think I needed you just as much and I wasn’t brave enough to realize it… until now.” We stared at one another with longing looks. Something powerful inside me moved. And I needed to kiss her… But that didn’t work out. We wound up falling in the water twice… I really, fucking hate that reality won’t let me kiss her right now. So the next best thing I can do is offer my hand. She took it and smiled. “You ever feel like the universe is trying to fuck with you?” Chloe chuckled.

          “We have met before, right? I’m Chloe Price, the universe’s crash test dummy.” I laughed then stared at her. Then she takes her hand back and smiled ear to ear. “Max Caulfield… did you try to kiss me?” I held my face with embarrassment and grunted.

          “How did you know?”

          “Again, I do know you a little bit… So what happened?” I put my hands down and looked to her.

          “I… fell into the lake.” Chloe laughs.

          “Wait, wait, how many times did you try?”

          “Oh, Stars… Twice. Both were a disaster… It seemed like the perfect moment… But I guess not. I’m sorry.” Chloe stares again, still having a soft smile on her face.

          “Well… we’ll just have to find the next perfect moment. Won’t we.” She then offered her hand to me. Did she… She wants to kiss me too. That just knocked the wind out of me. I didn’t know what to say or how to say words. I just smiled and grabbed her hand. “After I finish laughing my ass off at the image of you going overboard.” I laughed, and I was able to talk again.

          “Shut up! You fell too, you know. No, thank you Max for saving my phone.” She laughs and held out her hand again. And I took it. “Living here all this time. I never took a boat out here until now.”

          “Just add it to the list of conveyances I’ve dragged your ass into over the years.” I smiled thinking of those days.

          “Let’s hear the list.”

          “Huh, well. There was my truck, of course. That shopping cart in San Francisco. Then there was that vespa we had in Salt Lake City.”

          “I thought I was going to go flying off the back so many times.” Chloe smiled.

          “We had that tandem bicycle in Chicago. That was a disaster. Uhm… And Izzie’s friends weed dealer’s tuk-tuk we joy rode in Nashville.” I shook my head thinking about that.

          “Honestly… I don’t know how we are still alive.”

          “You mean… how are we so awesome?” We looked out to the lake, just holding each other’s hand. Until I let go. What Safi said to me was making this amazing moment sad.

          “Max? What’s wrong?”

          “It’s nothing Chloe.”

         “What happened between you and Safi?” I looked to her surprised. She still knows exactly what bothers me… I loved and hated that about her.

          “A lot of things.”

          “Like what?”

          “Like I’m the reason she came back.”

          “So…”

          “Chloe. When she left a year ago. She was going to find other people like us. And she made me promise to her I’d wait for her.” Chloe gets a look like she’s understanding me.

          “Oh. What does she want to do?”

          “I don’t know. I was ready to follow her… Just like...” I shook my head.

          “You really care about her that much?”

          “I do Chloe. This is why this hurt so much. I don’t know how to tell her that I can’t be with her now. Although she is very angry with me.”

          “Why? Why is she angry with you?”

          “She blames me for what’s happening to her and to you surprisingly… And I think she’s right… What’s scary is, that I didn’t even know I was using my powers this time. And I still created a huge mess, and hurt the two people I...” I stopped myself then looked down.

          “So she blamed you for bringing her back to life and then you agreed with her?” Chloe sounded annoyed. I looked back to her shaking my head.

          “Chloe…”

          “That’s such bullshit. Yes your powers are weird and sometimes freak me out, too. But there isn’t a single person in the world I would trust with them more than you.” That almost made me cry.

          “I… I think I needed to hear that. Thank you.”

          “Don’t mention it.” She said softly then smirked. “And besides. I wouldn’t let her take you anyway.”

          “Why?”

          “I told you once Max. I can’t see you with anyone else, but me.” I remembered that… I laughed with a big smile.

          “So does this mean… we’re back together?” Chloe smiled and paused.

          “It’s a start.” I stared crying because I was so happy.

When we got back to the dock Chloe helped me out. And if she didn’t move away from me at that moment, I would have kissed her… And I think she knew that.

          “Come on. We have a party to go to tonight.”

          “We do?”

          “Yeah lets go back to my house. I’ll fill you in on everything I learned… and while were there, I’ll cook.” Chloe chuckles.

          “You can cook now?”

          “Yes… But I still have trouble with grilled cheese.” Chloe laughs and we both walk back to the truck. “Jack ass laughing at me…” Chloe laughs again.

Happy Birthday! Pt 3

The Golden Hours

          When we got back home, I saw that my order went through. I picked up my groceries and walked in the house. It felt so nice just to unwind… no pun intended. I went to the kitchen and started unpacking everything. Chloe closed the door and met me in the kitchen.

          “Chloe. Why don’t you go clean up while I cook. And if you want anything cleaned just set it aside and I’ll get the wash started.” She paused then shrugged, and off she went. Tonight dinner is Creamy Bacon Pasta. As always, I started doing the prep. That took about 15 minutes, and Chloe was still in the shower. I turned on some music Chloe is going to hate, then I got to the actual cooking. The first song came on. I loved it… and it was appropriate I’d like to add. I started singing along.

(Jonathan Mendelsohn – World Falls Apart)

And when the next song came on, I started dancing while cooking. “Yes!” I shouted, because this song was true.

(Love Beans – Ain’t Giving You Up)

I sang this one too. By the time the song was done, I didn’t notice Chloe was sitting at my kitchen counter. I jump a bit holding a plate.

          “Stars Chloe! OOooh.” I took a moment to breathe. She smiled softly and chuckled.

          “Well that’s new. You can sing?” I gave it a moment then put the plate in front of her.

          “Yes. Something I picked up being by myself. Mostly because I got hired to take pictures of this rave once. And I like the music.” I turned and grabbed another plate then the pan.

          “Hippie.” I laughed and plated her food. I then took a lactose pill and sat down. As we ate, I couldn’t stop staring. Even just watching her eat was like heaven. She looked up at me, smiled, then swallowed her food. “Max. You’re doing it again.”

          “Huh?”

          “You’re staring.” I smiled then chuckled.

          “I’m sorry.”

          “Wasn’t there something you wanted to talk about?”

          “Yes… I know President Teller was the one who ordered the demolition last night. And I’m pretty sure Reggie was involved somehow. He’s the president of Abraxas.” Chloe nods.

          “Double presidential crime. Two for the price of one.” I nodded.

          “So tonight. There’s a secret occultist party at the Abraxas house. And Safi must be going. That’s why she had that mask you stole for me.”

          “Alright. Next stop, freaky college party.”

          “You find out anything about the protesters? Could one of them really start the fire?”

          “They are super pissed off and looking for a make themselves heard… And honestly, with what I’ve learned about Caledon using the storm to take over more of Lakeport, I can’t say I blame them for being angry Max. But this shit’s dangerous.”

          “At least we know about it now. That gives us a shot, right?”

          “I don’t know.” I sighed then took a bite of my food thinking about this.

          “By the way Max. This is good.”

          “Huh?”

          “The food…”

          “Oh…” I chuckled then thought of something. “Why did you hit Safi?” Chloe stared while chewing.

          “That bitch took me back to the dream hell, and she wouldn’t stop touching me. So I hit her.”

          “That would explain things.”

          The rest of the two hours and a half we had left, I spent doing Chloe’s laundry taking a shower and Journaling. Just before I put Chloe’s clothes in the washer, I checked her pockets. I pulled out a keychain I haven’t seen in years. She kept it... All this time she kept it... That almost made me cry. I thought she would have thrown it away a long time ago but... she kept it. I went back upstairs into my living room.

          “Here.” Chloe looks up as I tossed her keepsakes at her. I didn’t dare look at her and just picked up my journal and opened it. Chloe didn’t say anything.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

September 21, 2024        (Saturday)

For my 29 birthday, I have received the best gift in my life. Chloe Price is here.

-I took a peek at her just now. She was on the opposite couch staring intensely at me. I blushed.-

She is the love of my life. Thorn in my heart… Stars, Chloe… You are so beautiful it’s frightening.

(At the bottom of this page, is a drawing of Chloe on the couch staring. The only color to this drawing is her eyes, which is a bright blue)

– Turn the page and writes –

The last time I saw you, was before you left me in a motel room. I was sobbing into threadbare tissues. Your letter said that it would all be okay someday…

This can’t have been what you meant…

Chloe Elizabeth Price is here. Maybe if I keep writing it down, it won’t sound so insane. I guess I always thought that we’d meet again someday. But I figured it would be years from now. And that it would be… more of a mutual plan.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

I was so concentrated on my writing, I didn’t notice Chloe got up. By the time I realized this. She moved me, then sat down, and backed me against her chest, putting her arm around me. I paused, stunned, but I took in this moment. I breathed her in, smelling the scent of her denim jacket. Stars... I missed her smell. I put my book down, turned then cuddled up on Chloe’s chest.

          “Hey. Can I read this?” She asked, showing me my old diary. When did she get up?... I blushed with embarrassment...

          “Yeah.” I muttered. Chloe opened the book. After reading a few pages she smirked warmly.

          “This is an old one.” I nodded. I sat in her arms for a few minutes, and I just couldn’t write anything. I was so distracted by her warm embrace. How I missed this so much. “You really talked to me a lot... didn’t you.” She said. I couldn’t take it anymore. I put my book down, turned then cuddled up on Chloe’s chest. The smell of her hair... Stars... I nodded.

          “Uhm hmm... It was the only way that kept me sane Chloe. But that’s okay. I have you now.” She looked down at me and smiled. I want to kiss her... I want to kiss her so badly it hurts. “Please look away from me Chloe, or I’m going to kiss you.” Chloes smiled widens as she looked away. She took a deep breath then rubbed my back, and went back to reading.

Next thing, Chloes waking me up. I was still cuddling her… I fell asleep? “Max. It’s time to go.” I took a deep breath then stood up. I haven’t felt this good in a long time...

Chapter 3

Wild Night Into The Dawn Of A Beautiful Hell

-Mabon-

          Chloe and I just pulled up. And from the sounds of it, the party is in full swing. We walked over to the back yard. I turned to her before going in.

          “This is it. It could all start tonight.”

          “We know that Reggie kid is up to something. Think you can get me another Eyes Wide Shut mask so we can sleuth together?”

          “Yeah. Until then, just stay out of trouble Chloe.” She smirked shaking her head, as if saying to me “fine.”

          I went around listening to people talk, and studying things closely… Then I got into the house. It was like your classic gothic haunted house. Somewhere around here, there’s a Halloween store owner puttering his kids through college because of Abraxas. I manage to track down a mask for Chloe then I found Reggie. Had to take a sip of fruit punch, and eventually I got to talk to Reggie. He told me some shit, then I went to give Chloe her mask.

          “Here.” I held the mask up. Chloe jumps because I startled her. I chuckled a little.

          “Jesus!”

          “Sorry.” Chloe takes the mask and puts it on. “I think you should check out the basement. The door password is “Basilisk.” I’ll do another swoop and sneep…” I just messed up my words just now… “I’ll do another sweep and try to snoop…” What the fuck. I chuckled.

          “What’s in the basement?”

          “The Hall of Secrets. Owen told Reggie to destroy whatever’s inside. He’s looking for a way in. We have to get there first.”

          “We know the fire started here. But was it to destroy the house, or the thing inside?” I walked back up to the gate. “So. Split up, meet at the bonfire when we know more?” Even with a mask on Chloe still looks sooo beautiful. I walked up to her smiling behind the mask; I put my hand on her upper left arm.

          “I just want you to know. I’m so excited to make these memories with you.” Then I poked her nose and walked away. ‘Maybe Reggie was being paranoid earlier… or maybe Chloe and I aren’t the only party-crashers.’ As I did another loop around, I started feeling weird, buzzy, and everything pulsed and I can barely make a coherent thought. I kept seeing Safi so I kept chasing her around the best I could with out falling. Something is wrong… something is so wrong now I need to sit in a quiet place to breathe.

As I some how got into the house again I sat down.

(The song playing in the background was Collective Soul – Gel)

Loretta turned into her recorder, and other shit just kept appearing and changing all around me. I had a conversation with someone in the mirror. After that, I ran out of the house thinking Chloe was endanger, because Reggie came in yelling that someone tried to kill him in the basement. ‘Chloe!’ Turning the corner of the basement I nearly fell over.

          “Chloe! Are you okay?! Please be okay!”

          “Fuck, this thing is heavy…” Chloe said dropping a wooden box. Then she turned seeing me. “You are not gonna believe what just…” She stares at me getting a worried look. “Max? Whoa, what happened to you.” She walks up to me.

          “I-I-I think I’m allergic to fruit punch?” She leads me over to the steps. “Either way, we should stay down here until those bowling balls go home.” Chloe stares for a moment then laughs a bit.

          “Oh! Max Caulfield.” She helps me sit on the step, then she kneels down to me. “Tripping balls! HA… I never thought I’d see the day. What were they passin’ around up there?” I stared at her blankly.

          “Blood wine.” I started panicking having a thought. “What do you think was in it?! Please don’t say blood!”

          “Mushrooms, by the look of you. But Chloe the Trip Sitter is at your service. Let’s get you out of this spooky wizard basement and…”

          “No! We can’t go up there! Please, the girl in the mirror… Don’t listen to her, promise me!” I started crying. Chloe gets up and sits down next to me putting her hand on my back.

          “Hey, hey. It’s all gonna be okay. I’m right here.” With her touch I calmed down just a little.

          “For now. That’s how it works. You drive your truck back into my life… We have a few… incredible days together… And then we lose everything. And eventually, I lose you too.” I looked to her, as a tear rolls down my face. “I don’t know if I can do it again.” I paused. “And I love you so much, but it’s not enough. If I really loved you, I’d tell you to leave, to get as far away from me, and my powers… as… But I can’t…” Breathing heavily I pointed to her. “We’re doomed.”

          “We are not doomed. We’re Max and Chloe.” I calmed down gazing at her face. “I’m sorry. We pulled so far away from each other, we let an entire dead town get between us. I should have told you every day that we were gonna make it. But I didn’t, and then we didn’t. Listen, I don’t know if the school will still be standing tomorrow. I don’t know how much time I… But it doesn’t matter. Who fucking knows what will happen next, but it will happen to us, okay?” She put her hand on my arm. And that’s all I could think about. I nodded. “Because I’m not going anywhere.” I only heard half of that but it made me happy… Then I started seeing fireflies, appearing out of nowhere. They were all around Chloe, buzzing and glowing around her like twinkling stars. This was another perfect moment. I blushed, and as I stared at the love of my life, I raised my hand wanting to touch her face.

          “You’re so beautiful. I think this is the part where we’re supposed to kiss.” Chloe smiled and chuckled quietly. But as I stared at her lips it split into two. “But I can’t figure out which one of your lips is the right one.” Chloe laughed.

          “Alright... But let’s raincheck that until you’re sober.” I nodded with a smile. “Now sit tight for a second, okay? I’m gonna get you out of here… But I gotta check on something first.” I watched her go over to a box. “Somebody came down here with a sledgehammer, lookin’ for this. What do you think, finally some real pirate treasure?” I didn’t even here her I was to busy looking at my hand. “What am I saying? Given everything, it’s definitely drugs…” She grunts and groans then gasped. I looked back to Chloe seeing her back away.

          “What is it?” I asked.

          “Nothing.” Chloe gets off the floor. “Max, you don’t want to see.” But I got up and did. What I saw was human bones in a wooden old box. I widen my eyes.

          “Oh my stars…” I pointed to the box… “You see that too, right?”

          “Unfortunately, yes. Must be the thing Reggie was sent to destroy.” My brain started working a little seeing this.

          “All of Owen’s lies and manipulation… I – It wasn’t about a fucking science building, it was about that…” I pointed again. “Wh – what do we do?” Chloe looks towards the door.

          “Hide.” She pushed me to behind the shelves. A masked man looks at the box and was startled at what he saw. Then I looked to the box again. It whispered to me, and turned towards me opening its lid more. ‘Get ready, Max. They’ll come for you next.’ I went bug eyed and was about to scream when Chloe pushed me back into her chest and covered my mouth, breaking the view of the box for me. “Shh..” She whispered in my ear. Then she got up. I kinda went backwards then she helped me stand, and took me out of the basement.

          “No sign of that box. Damn it.” I had no idea what Chloe was talking about at the moment. Then I saw Reggie. He was on the phone talking to the cops.

          “Yes, it’s 3180 Fremont Street. It’s the house where all the shit keeps happening.” Reggie said. As I looked closer to him… This wasn’t Reggie.

          “Safi?” I said.

          “No Max, that’s… damn it.” Chloe said as Reggie turns into Safi. Safi smiled and waved to us.

          “You both really love fucking up my plans, don’t you?” Safi said.

          “So you called the cops on us? Dude, what is your deal?!” Chloe shouted looking angry.

          “Or you saw a bonfire, and a bunch of tripping students,” I started getting closer to her. “and decided that you wanted to protect the school. Even though it got in the way of your sneaking into the party.” Safi folded her hands together and looked to me like she was surprised. As I keep getting closer to her during my speech. She looks to Chloe and points to me. Chloe put her hand on my shoulder, backing me away from Safi. All I felt was electric beneath her hand… It felt, really good. I gasped a little.

          “I guess will never know… See ya, kids.” She waved bye. Chloe gets in front of me.

          “Somebody knew about that body. They got it out, and then they double backed for it.” I was still reeling from the touch. “Still, the party was shut down. The cops will put out that bonfire.” When she said fire. I started looking around. “Maybe we still stopped the… Max?” I widen my eyes again seeing the message on the wall.

          “I don’t think we stopped anything.” The message on the wall said (You’ll all burn) then we heard sirens. Cops and firetrucks. Still was so much… I can’t. I covered my ears and looked down. Chloe picks me up, putting me over her shoulder and runs back to her truck.

Wild Night Into The Dawn Of A Beautiful Hell Pt 2

A New Power Of Love

-The Majestic Tapestry-

          I jolted awake and grunted. My head was killing me. I opened my eyes seeing space? I was so disoriented. I don’t even remember how I got here… where ever I am.

          “Where am I?” I grabbed my head and heard, Moses?

          “She’s up. I’ll go get some hot chocolate ready.” Chloe comes in and sits next to me, and tapped my leg. I stretched a bit. Everything hurt. I slept in some questionable spaces before in the past, but I don’t remember them fucking me up this hard. I think I’m getting to use to luxury, and the comfort of a bed too much.

          “So? Is Max’s magical mystery tour finally over?” I give myself a moment for my brain to fire up… For fucks sake stop using the word fire!

          “Ugh… I feel like I could sleep for a month.”

          “And? What’s the verdict, Alice?”

          “Chloe…” My brain is… DON’T SAY IT!! “I think my daily double-shot americano is enough chemical enhancement for me.”

          “Understood. It’s plenty trippy being inside your mind as it is.”

          “Did I sleep here all night?”

          “Yup. Moses and I found you the chillest spot in the building while we kept working in his office.” Oh… that was nice… ‘SHIT!’

          “The fire! Aww!” I held my head because I moved too quickly. “It’s today. Unless… did we stop it?” I looked to Chloe.

          “Negatory. Moses and I have been at it all night. There’s a lot we need to catch you up on. But one thing’s for sure…” Chloe goes into her pocket and pulls out my photo. “The fire has shifted, but it hadn’t gone away.” I looked and she was right. I started thinking of the night I had… and remembered something… Oooh shit… the things I told her to her face.

          “Last night… the body. Something about a sledgehammer… Was all of that real?” I looked to her with a worried almost embarrassed look.

          “Afraid so. The human sacrifice part was just a gag, but there was some seriously fucked up shit going down in that basement.” I sighed…

          “So we’re no closer to solving anything…” Chloe shakes her head and took a deep breath.

          “Hall of secrets” my ass. When I saw these photos down there, I was so sure it was the key to everything… But Moses and I have been poring over them all night.” Chloe chucked them on a table. “It’s just some old Mabon party. Everyone’s wearing masks. And one of the photos is too blurry to see much of anything.” There was a pause. “Hey, maybe you could zip into one of ‘em real quick and find out what’s going on?”

          “My power doesn’t work that way. Even if it did… I don’t know. Maybe Safi was right. Am I just making everything worse?”

          “When it comes to your power, I would trust your gut, then every other person in the fucking universe, then Safi.” Then she looks to me. “Hey, I have an idea. Let’s take advantage of your mushy bbrrrain. I’ll throw you some topics, and you tell me what you think.” I shrugged shaking my head.

          “Go for it.”

          “Reggie and Owen, our Mount Rushmore of suspects.”

          “Reggie was willing to destroy the evidence last night. And Owen was trying to bring the whole house down.”

          “Maybe today’s the day they finish the job? With a fire that quickly gets out of hand? Could be whoever took that body.”

          “Reggie… He’s a good kid. Couldn’t hurt a fly. It’s unlikely he could do it. But Owen… After Loretta nearly died, Owen would have to be crazy to do something so brazen. As for the mystery thief… I don’t know, he could have something to do with this.” Chloe got quiet for a second.

          “I know Safi is your... but…”

          “I love Safi, and she can be volatile. But she wouldn’t do anything to hurt innocent people. Especially now that she knows about the fire.”

          “I know she means a lot to you Max. But I don’t trust her.” I found that statement funny.

          “She’s not to worry about. Trust me Chloe.” She takes a deep breath then moves on.

          “What do you make of my dude-bros at the bar? Do you think they could get rowdy and start a fire on campus? We know the protest is happening in a few hours and, according to Joey, it could get, quote, heated.”

          “I think it’s a high possibility. We know there were protests on campus before the fire last time.”

          “It only takes one asshole to go rogue and turn a protest into a riot. Do you think there are any suspects we haven’t been thinking of?”

          “Yes. It could still be anyone. Hell Moses almost set his office on fire two days ago. There’s no way to know.”

          “At least there’s still time.” I sighed. I might as well bring up the Elephant that is clearly being ignored.

          “Chloe. Last night is still pretty jumbled up in my head.” I stand up and walked over to the table with the pictures on it, then turned to Chloe. “I know I went to a dark place by myself for a while. And then a really dark place when we saw that body… But somewhere in the middle there, when I saw you in the basement, I felt filled up with joy and gratitude.” Chloe stands up and smiled softly as she comes closer to me. “I’m not sure if I managed to get those words out so clearly last night, so I wanted to make sure to say it today.” She gets a little closer to me.

          “You were very clear Max. And I feel the same way, even without the benefit of the freaky fruit punch.” She winks at me. Hearing that, hearing that she just admitted she loved me, my heart felt like it was pounding out of my chest. For so long I… This was the moment. Another perfect moment. As the urge to kiss her was strong, seeing the longing look in her eyes I started hearing voices.

          “I hate to ruin this again. But I think that punch must be working through my system.” I rubbed my head. “I’m still hearing things.”

          “No, no, I can hear it too. It sounds like a party.”

          “Hmm…” My body started feeling buzzy then the feeling traveled down my right arm. I looked down at my hand that was next to the photos, and when I did the photos lit up like fire ashes, floating up into a smoky cloud of cosmo.

          “Max? What’s happening?”

          “I… don’t know. Are you seeing this?”

          “You bet your fucking ass I am. Holy shit, is this what your powers looks like?”

          “More or less.”

          “Max Caulfield, Laser Light spectacular.”

          “I don’t know what I’m doing. I’ve never done this before.” I panicked a little. And Chloe saved me, like she always does. She grabbed my left hand.

          “Well, hey, let’s find out together.” I smiled warmly and calmed down.

          From the voices coming from the photos, Chloe and I pieced together that the body in the box was this townie who snuck into the party. He drank to many drugs and killed himself. And whoever was there that night covered it up. When Moses came back in, he saw my new power and was shocked.

-All Available Evidence-

          Luckily, I had a change of clothing in Moses’s office. He assured me that we will be doing more testing with the new power after this was over. I agreed, but then it was time for me to get caught up with everything they did last night. Studying all this shit, all I wanted to do is go home and take a shower, and maybe a nap… My body still hurts… sighs.

          “Okay, what do we know about the fire?” Moses asked.

          “We know its centers around the Abraxas house. Either because of the body or Owen’s plans, or both.”

          “I agree, that’s a plausible outcome, but we don’t know it’s true. Just because the fire happened one way before doesn’t mean it will play out the same way now.” Moses walks up to the white board and starts writing. “I think at this point, we have to consider the fire might be a constant. You’ve made many changes to reality, yet it remains… Last time, it was Loretta’s death at the demolition that led to it. But now, there was no demolition. So we don’t know. It could be Abraxas. It could be the protesters. It could be any of those other suspects on the board. There’s no way to know… Furthermore, every step we take to stop the fire, even something as small as this conversation, is likely to shake the snowglobe again and change what causes it.”

          “So the more we do the less we know? That’s fucking stupid.” Chloe added.

          “No… That’s reality.” Moses finishes.

          “But we know so much more than we did before. We know about the protesters, we know about the body, we know about the illegal demolition… All that knowledge has to make some difference, right?” I asked.

          “I… don’t know.” Moses said taking a deep breath. There was a pause as we all were thinking… Then Chloe speaks up.

          “Hold up, professors. There’s one giant variable that wasn’t in your equation last time… me.” Chloe smiled. “We know reality is obsessed with mind-fucking me right now. Maybe whatever is going on with me and Safi will… I don’t know… cancel out the fire? Maybe the fact that I’m here this time, if I can figure my shit out, is the missing piece.” Shit... I knew this might bite me in my ass. “Max? What’s up?” I sighed looking down for a moment.

          “Chloe… The last time… last reality. You were here. You came to find me and I was gone, but I guess you met Moses.”

          “How do you know?”

          “Because I saw you. You were passed out, from the smoke. Moses was carrying you. Before both of you died… again Chloe… again.” Realization waves over Chloe’s face when I said that.

          “Oh. Why didn’t you tell me?” I get closer to her.

          “I tried Chloe. But you didn’t listen to me and sent me away. You know I would never hold anything like that from you deliberately. But now we know it’s coming and I…” Chloe laughed, then started to look pissed and scared.

          “Yeah, and we still can’t stop it. What if the fire isn’t the only constant?”

          “Chloe…”

          “What if our deaths are too?”

          “Chloe…” We paused. I looked to Moses. He looked to us.

          “It’s possible.” He added.

          “No. I will never let that happen. And you know that, Chloe.” Chloe turns to us.

          “Whhooo… There is only one thing to do when reality fucks you this hard. I’m gonna go smoke.”

          “Chloe…” Chloe shakes her head and starts walking away. “Chloe! Chloe!” I start walking after her. “I’m sorry Moses!”

-Worth the Wait-

          Outside Chloe was pacing and smoking like she said she would. She looked so worried and upset. I slowly walked up to her when she put out her cigarette.

          “How are you feeling?” That was a stupid question.

          “I think you mean, “any last words?” That just angered me a little.

          “Stars Chloe, don’t say shit like that.”

          “You should have tried harder to tell me.” I sighed hearing that, shaking my head.

          “I’m sorry Chloe. I should have. But I couldn’t let myself imagine a world where it happened again. To see you die again and again Chloe I can’t.”

          “I get it. I just got you back, too. There are… things I can’t let myself think about, either.” There is still so much more I want to say to her but…

          “I’m going to the admin building. Hopefully Owen is there and I can confront him with the evidence… What about you and Moses?”

          “I’m gonna head to the turtle. The protesters should be meeting there soon. If I can figure out who is plotting violence on Caledon today, I can tell Noelle and maybe we can stop this. I’m basically an honorary member of the Lakeport townies. Someone is gonna let something slip, I know it.” We paused… I can’t take this anymore… I turned to her and we both spoke at the same time.

          “I just…”

          “I wanted to…” We both backed off from that fuckery. Then we both signed for each other to talk.

          “You first.” I said. She nods and walks up to me.

          “Okay.” She clears her throat. “This weekend had been…” She laughs. “I’ve never had so many emotions at once. Excited, scared, utterly mindfucked. But underneath it all. I’ve only really felt one thing.” She laughs with joy. “I am so incredibly happy to be here with you, Max.” Now she’s holding back tears, her voice is shaking. “Whatever comes next. I love you Max.” Hearing that my heart wants to burst. She took a deep breath to calm herself. Then she looks to me… It’s my turn and all I can see is my beautiful woman glowing in the light. I can’t stop staring. “Your turn.” I got excited.

          “Huhh..” I got so shy, I walked to the other side of her, my back to her because I needed to calm down. I took a few deep breaths then turned to her. She was already close. “I…” I couldn’t get out my thoughts, when she pulled me close to her, lifted my chin and kissed me. Dear universe… holy shit… wow. Her lips, her tongue… stop fucking this up Max… When she pulled away from the kiss, she held me in her arms a bit, then rubbed her forehead against mine, cuddling, nuzzling each other lovingly.

          “Oh, Chloe.”

          “That’s what I have to say to reality. I love you Max.” She said softly, rubbing my cheek. Oh... hearing that again out loud put my whole body at ease. How I would like nothing more to be at home right now. To show her just how much I missed us... Dear Stars above me... I love this woman so much. “And we’ll get through this. This isn’t another goodbye.” I took her hand and held it to my cheek. And when I opened my eyes, I looked to her lovingly, wanting. Then slowly slid her hand down to my chest putting her hand on my heart. Her touch... it just felt so right. I nodded agreeing with her. She gave me a peck on my lips before letting me go. Stars how I wanted to keep holding her... Breathing heavily, and with great effort, I turned from her, then paused then I started down the steps. But every step I took was wrong. So fucking wrong. I turned around and ran back up the steps. She was at the door when I turned her around. “Max?” I kissed her in the most raw passionate way I could muster. All those years being away from her, all the tension I have built up, I just threw at her. When I pulled away… because I had to, I held her cheek in my hand as she did to me.

          “I love you Chloe Price… and I will stop at nothing to keep you safe. Always, my punk rock girl.” Chloe smiled rubbing my hand.

          “I think you better go Max. Before I keep you here and do things to you, we don’t have time for.” I chuckled and nodded.

          “I had the same feeling, Chloe. But I’ll settle for a rain check. On a date?” Chloe nods. I gave her a peck, then turned and ran down the steps determined, yet satisfied.

Chapter 4

Into The Maw Of Embers

-Max’s Decision-

          Leaving Chloe just now was hard. All I want to do is bring her to my bed and have my way with her… Her way with me… Hopefully after all this is over, I can. I went to the admin building, having Chloe on my mind this was going to be difficult to concentrate. When I got into Owens office, I see Vinh at his desk listening to Yasmin and Owen fighting. Owen comes storming out of the room then leaves. When I turned, I see Safi where Vinh was. I thought I was getting good at her tells… But I still had Chloe’s lips on my mind… Sighs… This is going to suck.

          “Well that was worth the price of admission.” Safi chuckles.

          “Safi… I didn’t realize it was you this time.”

          “Of course you didn’t, dingus, that’s what makes it fun.” She smiled.

          “What are you doing here? And no more games.” She sighs grudgingly, then smiled and presented the photo in front of her, wiggling her fingers. I looked down and grabbed the picture. I was shocked to see her mother. I put the photo down. “Holy shit… Yasmin was in Abraxas. She was there on the night when that kid died… The year I was born.”

          “Really?” Safi picks up the pic and looks at the date. “Look at that...” She chuckled then tossed the photo down... “What do you know about him?”

          “He was a Lakeport Local who snuck into the party, then got way too high and killed himself. There was a cover up. I had no idea your mom was involved.” Safi smiled looking satisfied.

          “I’m impppresssed. Of course, when it comes to cover ups, you should always assume that my mom is involved. That’s how I got tipped off to all of this. Seeing how she was talking to you, how confident she was that she had Owen wrapped around her finger. I knew she was up to something. The Abraxas house, the demolition, the cover up. She was right there behind him, letting him be the face of it all… She steered his ass straight from poster boy to fall guy… That fire you saw? Guaranteed she was behind it, too.”

          “I can’t be sure about that. But I’m sorry you have to deal with more of her lies.”

          “You’d think I’d be used to it by now, wouldn’t you…”

          “Thhan, let’s confront her with the evidence. We can hold her accountable for the cover up and whatever else she’s planning.” Safi smiled and pointed to me.

          “Not interested.” Then she stands and comes out from behind the desk. “I have a better offer.” She comes close to me and holds my arm. “Let’s leave. Right now.” Oh no... “Let’s pack up the car and get the fuck out of here. We can be in New York by sun down.” After all this I couldn’t believe what she was suggesting. “From there… who knows… We can reconnect with Diamond. Hit the mountains, head west.” She gasped with excitement then grabbed my other arm. “We can find your town! The one that magically reappeared from the dust of the earth!”

          “Safi…”

          “We could head straight there and get you some of that sweet, sweet, closure you’ve always wanted.” I was impressively miffed.

          “Safi!” I took a moment to gather my thoughts. “I don’t know where you’re coming from. You ignored me for months, then you’re on campus hiding from me, and now you want us to run off together?!” I chortled shaking my head. “There will be a fire today, Safi. People will die.”

          “You promised me, Max. You said when I came back, that you would be there for me. Well I’m calling it in.”

          “I’ve been here all this time Safi. The entire time waiting for you. But what your asking is…”

          “I know shit between us has gotten weird. But it’s still me Max.”

          “Safi…”

          “And if you still care about me at all, you need to trust me. This is why I’m here. I thought it was because I needed your help. But I was wrong! We need each other… you, me, Chloe. Maybe even Moses, who knows… Your powers called us together from afar, like some kind of beacon, or a…”

          “Or a Lighthouse?”

          “Exactly! Why do you think that is?”

          “I don’t know Safi…”

          “I do. It’s so we could start over, together. Be free of this fucking place! The way it was always meant to be.”

          “That was all I wanted Safi. Before you left, was to be with you. But now things have changed. And people could die today if I don’t help them. Don’t you understand? Even Chloe, Moses. That should be enough for you.” Safi gets this hurt look on her face. One that I have never seen.

          “I should be enough for you!” She shouts. I looked down, hearing that broke my heart. “Please?” She comes up to me holding my arm again. “I-I’ll be good. I… I won’t shapeshift, I won’t… I won’t lie. Just please Max.” I looked into her beautiful amber eyes, and she looked like she was on the verge of tears. “I don’t wanna be alone.” I rubbed her cheek... I couldn’t help it. She held my hand lovingly as a single tear rolls down her face.

          “Oh Safi...” I muttered shaking my head. More tears roll down her face, then her expression turns into a sad but angry one. She didn’t say a thing but left the room.

          “Safi!” I shouted. I wanted to go after her so badly but I didn’t have the time… Rrrrr!

          After talking to Yasmin, and finding out some shit I was able to rule out Safi, Owen, and Reggie. That just left me with Vinh, it was still unclear to me how he would fit into this but it had to be him. I get on the phone.

          “Chloe.”

          “Max?”

          “I think I know who will start the fire today.”

          “You do?”

          “Yeah, I just hope I’m not to late. Stay safe. I’ll see you soon, love you.” I hung up the phone, and ran.

-“Peaceful” Protest-

          When the protesters started, I ran into Reggie. He told me where to find Vinh and I told him to get the fuck out of here because it wasn’t safe for him. Then I saw someone almost starting a fire, but Noelle got to him on time. That means Chloe made the right choice. That’s my girl. I was very proud of her. As if I wasn’t already. I chuckled at the thought. My phone buzzed, I picked it up.

– Texts –

Chloe, Max

Chloe

R u ok?

Chloe

I know your busy saving the world. But please. Let me know.

I’m ok.

Chloe

That’s a relief. How’s everything in your end?

The protest has started. I’m heading to Fremont Street to stop Vinh from doing something really dumb.

Chloe

We’ll figure this out Max. Stay safe.

Chloe

Whatever happens. Just want you to know. I wouldn’t trade this time with you for anything in the world.

I’m outside the Abraxas house Chloe. And I love you too.

-Keeping Watch-

I just walked up in to the Abraxas house’s yard. It was quiet, so quiet.

          “Vinh!” It took a second but he walks out from behind the dumpster. I got soo mad.

          “Well. This is a nice surprise!”

          “What the fuck are you doing here Vinh?”

          “Call me sentimental. I just wanted to see the place again, before they turn it into some modernist nightmare of a science building.”

          “You’re lying. I know it was you who took the body out of the basement. Now where is he?” He gets a puzzled but annoyed look.

          “How the… do you have some kind of psychic power to fuck with me?”

          “You can say that. Now where’s the body.” He moves out of the way of the dumpster. “You just threw him in there?!” I yelled.

          “Hey. He’s been shoved behind a wall for decades, I don’t think he minds.”

          “This isn’t funny Vinh!” I walked over to the door then got it open.

          “I didn’t have a lot of options.” As soon as I got the door open, I saw it. Oh Stars… “Last night got a little chaotic. Thankfully he’s still here!” I turned and looked to the side of the dumpster seeing the stolen chemicals. I looked back to Vinh looking more angry. “I was just about to be done with it.” I get my phone out and start dialing. “Max. Max! Listen to me. You don’t have to..”

          “Hello?” It was Moses. I put him on the loud speaker.

          “Moses, what would happen if you combined nitric acid with explosives?”

          “Don’t do that! That’s a terrible idea!”

          “Understood. But theoretically, would it start a fire?”

          “Yes, if it reacted with the explosive agent, it could start a combustion chain. Big boom, scientifically speaking.” The look on Vinh’s face was fear, and realization.

          “Thank you. I’ll call you soon. Tell Chloe I love her.” I put my phone away and walked back into the dumpster without looking at Vinh.

          “What are you doing?”

          “Confirming a theory. Meanwhile, you need to start talking.” I started looking around for those explosives the demo guys tossed in here.

          “When Owen announced the demolition, I thought Yasmin would be furious. But she was excited! Talking about “putting the past behind us.” She hooked Owen up with a demo company that wouldn’t ask too many questions.” I grabbed one of the explosive boxes and walked out of the dumpster with it. I held it up for him to see.

          “And then the demolition failed, the inspectors were called in, and the demo crew decided to hide the evidence.”

          “Okay, I’m tired of asking. How do you know all this?!”

          “When you know what’s going to happen, you just have to work backwards to figure out what causes it.” I put the box back down carefully.

          “What the fuck does that mean?!” Vinh shouts. I turned around and walked out of the dumpster.

          “I’ve been looking into this weirdness all weekend. And you’ve been lying to me at every step! Because you were so desperate to protect your job!”

          “My job?... You think this is about me?!” When he said that it took me a minute.

          “Yasmin… you wanted to protect her. She told you about the body and you took it upon yourself to get rid of it.”

          “Damn right I did. Yasmin is my mentor, my advocate. She’s my path to an actual fucking future. You think I’ll let her go down?...” He paused. “When she learned the demolition was canceled, the look on her face… I didn’t know what to think. I pulled her aside after the board meeting. I thought she was upset about Loretta being in danger. But then she just… confessed.” He paused. “The party, the death, the cover-up, she spilled everything! But she was resigned, like all the fight had just left her. So I took it upon myself.”

          “Why? She said she was ready for the truth to come out.”

          “The truth would have destroyed the school! And what about her? Yasmin already lost everything. She isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes her a great leader.”

          “And the man whose body you threw in the dumpster? What does he deserve?! What does his family deserve Vinh?!”

          “I don’t know! But he’s not my responsibility. The school, the students, my job… Those I can do something about.” I take out my phone again.

          “I’m calling the police. Feel free to be somewhere else when they arrive.”

          “I know you think you’re above it all. But life is about making tough choices.” Ooooh that made me mad. I turned around to face him.

          “You don’t get to tell me about tough choices. I have made tough choices… This isn’t one… We know what happens when someone goes down this path. Just look at Yasmin. I’m giving you a do-over Vinh. Don’t waste it.” I called the cops, and by the time I turned around Vinh was gone. After talking with the police, I headed for the Turtle. Where Chloe said she’d be.

–––⁂––––– })|({ –––––⁂–––

          After watching Ren get arrested, and the protest stopped, Moses and Chloe celebrated a bit, until Chloe saw Max on the ground waving at her pointing to the building. ‘How did she know we were here?’

          “Hey, I’m gonna… check something out.” Chloe walks towards the door.

          “I’ll be right here. Restarting my heart somehow.” Moses added.

-In The Lighthouse-

          Chloe made her way down to Moses’s office. And the moment she sees Max, she sighs with relief.

          “Chloe!” Max shouts and comes over to her.

          “Max.” Chloe holds her, then pulls away holding her cheek. “Thank god you’re okay! I was so worried.” She goes in for a kiss and Max backs up.

          “The school is safe. The protest is under control.” Chloe smirks and nods.

          “I told you you can do it.”

          “So we can leave. Like right now.”

          “What? Whoa, slow down Max.” She sighs and holds Chloe’s big strong arm.

          “Come on, Chloe! It’s you and me!”

          “Always Max but.”

          “Fuck Caledon, fuck Safi and Moses.” ‘Wait what?’ “All that matters is us, right?” Max gets closer to Chloe again, but now Chloe knows somethings really off. “We can get through anything.” Chloe stares, shakes her head, then chuckles.

          “Safi, I’ve known Max my whole life.” She gets a serious look. “If you’re gonna trick me, you’ll need more than just her face.” With a flash of pink, Max turns into Safi and sighs.

          “What, I threw in a hug and everything. That girl is such a hugger… And a kisser.” Hearing that didn’t make Chloe happy.

          “What was your plan? You’d steal me away pretending to be Max until… What?”

          “Does it seem like I’m in a five-year-plan mindset right now?” She laughs. “Listen, I’m not stealing you… I’m asking you. Can we get out of here, please?” Safi gets a sad look for a moment. “I know you love Max. I love her, too. But where has that love ever gotten us? Hmm? Mindfucked, chewed up. Half-dead. Maybe all of this has been about bringing us together? We’re two broken halves that have a chance to be whole.” ‘So now she’s asking me to run away together?... This chick is confusing.’ “Come on! I’m serious. Do you want a new start? Or do you want to keep being Max’s sidekick and victim.”

          “Hey! Don’t ever talk about Max like that Safi.” Safi shakes her head. “I know you have been through a lot. And maybe if this was under different circumstances I would. But I’m sorry, I have Max now. And I can’t give you what you need.” Safi smirks then walks into the room more.

          “Guess that’s it, then.” ‘Okay… now I’m confused again.

          “What do you mean?” Safi turns to Chloe.

          “Cut the shit! You know we’re hanging on by a thread. Maybe the thread’s already snapped!”

          “You’re not making any sense.”

          “You don’t see it? Look. Open your eyes, Chloe.” Chloe starts feeling the Overlight creeping in. ‘No…’

          “No!” She shouts. Safi lights up a cigarette.

          “I get it. You’re the big hero. You and Max saved the day.”

          “It’s not like that.” Safi points with her cigarette.

          “You really think it’ll be enough?” She walks up to a table. “You can run aallll you want. The rest of your life maybe.” She turns and points again. “But I doubt it. Because at the end of the day…” Chloe feels the Overlight again, Safi too, then she looks to her.

          “Shut up!”

          “We’re dead.” Chloe starts breathing heavily. She looks up out the windows of the office looking scared. Then she feels something pulling her into the other world. Now she stands at the Overlook next to Safi. Chloe looks up to the lighthouse, then it flashed a strong beam down on her. Next thing she know she standing next to the lighthouse. Safi walks in the door. Chloe follows her not knowing what to do next.

          The two are standing in a bright as hell room, white, and the sound of a door slamming shut startled Chloe. She looked to it then back to Safi as she spoke.

          “I spent so long blaming other people. Lucas. My mom. Max… I mean, Max did point a gun at me.” Safi walks in front of the statue of Max. And as Chloe turns following her, she sees a Max pointing a gun. “But let’s be honest,” Safi walks in front of the statue of Max. “she was never gonna shoot me. Such a Tttteeease.” Safi stands in front of the gun, at her chest. “It’s not her fault. I’ll bet, that night at the Overlook, it wasn’t even her finger on the trigger.” Safi mutters and grabs the barrel of the gun. Chloe gets scared and moves a little closer to her.

          “Stop! What are you doing?”

          “I’m sorry, Chloe. I really am. It was shit luck for your half-life to be knotted up with mine. But I know what I need to do.”

          “Wait, just… just hear me out.” Safi paused then let go of the gun and looks at Chloe.

          “Spare me the speech, Chloe okay? I already know what will happen if I do this. My mom will mourn me for a minute and move on. My friends already have.” Chloe shakes her head. “My life doesn’t make sense anymore… But my death is crystal clear.”

          “You’re kidding right?... Max loves you… I mean really loves you. Don’t you know that?”

          “Of course I know that!” She looks down. “Why do you think this hurts so much? Seeing her with you.” She paused. “Max was my best friend. And I fucked that up. She’ll never trust me again.” ‘There is so much I want to know what happen between those two… but for now.’

          “She trusted you enough to tell you about the fire. And you trust her enough to take her seriously. Max would never have done that for just anyone… Please, I’m begging you. You don’t want to do this.”

Into The Maw Of Embers Pt 2

The Inferno

-The Line of Fire-

          I just walked into the Turtle. Looking around I didn’t see Chloe or Moses anywhere. I started getting worried when Amanda came up to me.

          “Max.”

          “Hey Amanda. Have you seen Moses or a green haired girl?”

          “Yeah, they were sitting in that booth an hour ago. Is everything okay?”

          “I don’t know. But I’m going to find out.” I pulled out my phone.

– Group Texts –

Max, Moses

Wherre are yo?u??

We’re at the Observatory.

          Seeing the text I had this sinking feeling. I started to panic. I put my phone away and ran. “No!”

          “Max!” Amanda yelled.

          By the time I got back to the observatory, it was on fire. Fear waved over me. I thought we stopped this… how? I ran, and remembered a few things. I met up with the awesome custodian. And we set out to turn the water back on. Then I talked to Noelle, told her to save my student and Chloe, and Moses if she sees them then gave her a mask. After getting the water turned back on, I broke the front door with my wrench and screamed to people to get out. After that, I went to see if everyone was okay… But I didn’t see anyone, then I ran in the building.

-Trust Fall-

          Everyone was in Moses’s office. I got them out using my powers. Safi was the last one. When Chloe caught her breath, she punches the ground and stood up slowly.

          “Damn it, we were supposed to be saving your ass this time.” I ran up to her and hugged her, holding her.

          “Chloe.. Oh, Chloe.” Chloe holds me. I looked up to her. “What the hell were you thinking being in there?” I said, worried laced my face.

          “She came inside for me. And I’m grateful she did.” Safi said as we looked to her. “I’m grateful for all of you, actually.”

          “I’m just glad you’re here. The real you.” Moses added.

          “Cosigned… Lets get off this roof.” Chloe said then the building shifted. I saw the ladder go down, and me and Moses ran to the railing. FUCK!

          “The ladder…” I said.

          “It’s happening. Isn’t it?” Moses said sounding scared.

          “No!” I yelled and walked out from behind them. I held out my hand and tried to turn back time for the building. For the most part it was working, but this is too much. My head started killing me… and I can feel my nose is bleeding. Chloe comes out of nowhere and stops me.

          “Hey. It’s okay.”

          “Get off me Chloe! I need to do this!” Chloe wraps her arms around me. Breathing heavily, I felt the weight of the world again. “It’s not okay Chloe. I can do something. I can reset the ladder; I can put you back before the fire.” I looked up to her in a panic. “My selfie! I can go back to the beginning and do it right this time.” Chloe shakes her head.

          “The photo’s long gone Max. I’m sorry.” I started crying in Chloe’s arms.

          “I tried everything to stop this!… But I failed you… I failed you, Chloe. Again… What good am I, or my powers, if I can’t save you?!” Chloe starts crying and lift my chin.

          “Hey! I chose to be here, Max, by your side. Even now, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

          “Chloe…”

          “And no matter what happens. I’m so glad we were given this time together.”

          “This isn’t fair! You can’t have come back to me just to end up here… It’s not supposed to end like this…” Chloe kisses me. In this moment I almost forgot the world was burning, then the building shifted. In a panic, I pushed Chloe away from me, to the railing and I fell to the ground. “I won’t watch you die again!” Chloe, climbs over the ledge and held out her hand to me. I got up and slowly went to her.

          “You won’t. You’ll be there for me, Max… Always.” As she said that, an explosion blew Chloe off the ledge.

          “NOOOoooo!!!” I screamed and ran to the ledge. With tears in my eyes, I used my power to rewind. Over and over again… but it wasn’t enough, and she’s still falling. No... I will not let the universe take her from me! Not ever again... I felt this power surge through me. It felt just like the time I saved Kate off the roof. I slowed down time to almost a crawl, and at the same time, I kept rewinding to move faster. I made my way out of the building, just to see Chloe was still falling, but very slowly. I managed to move the custodian’s four-wheeler and backed it up to Chloe. Once Chloe fell in the leaves, I stopped using my powers, and ran up into the back. She was laying there emotionless, and unmoving. Thoughts of her being gone plagued my mind.

          “Chloe… god Chloe be alive… be alive… Please… Please.” I cried rubbing her cheek. She slowly opened her eyes. I started crying hard.

          “What did I tell you?” She said sitting up. “I knew you’d be there.” She wiped the blood off my nose. “You always are.” I smiled a tired smile.

          “Chloe the ladder…. the ladder.” Chloe kissed my cheek then got up. I fell over breathing heavily. I don’t know how long I was laying there for, but I almost either passed out, or fell asleep until Chloe picked me up in her arms.

          “No sleeping yet Max.”

          “Chloe…” I kissed then rubbed her cheek. She smiled then put me on her back.

We all walked up to the Overlook. Chloe put me down and stood next to me. We watched the building burn for a while. But in this moment, nothing else matter to me… but Chloe. I started shaking, it was getting cold. Chloe must have felt me because she took off her jacket and put it over me. Then she brought me into her arms and held me. I closed my eyes and cuddled her, thinking about nothing but us, and that I will never let go of her again.

–––⁂––––– })|({ –––––⁂–––

          Max starts slowly sliding down Chloe. Chloe looks down feeling the movement and tightens her hold. But she goes down with her.

          “Whoa, Max…” Everyone looks to her hearing the slight panic in her voice. Safi comes over.

          “Chloe?” Safi said looking worried. Sitting on the ground with Chloe holding her up she muttered.

          “I’m tired Chloe… so tired.”

          “Is she okay?” Moses asked. Chloe picks her up then turns to all the worried looks.

          “Yeah, she’s alright. I’ve seen this before when she over uses her…” Safi quickly stops Chloe from finishing that sentence by putting her hand on her arm. She shook her head no, then gives a quick glance over to her mother, as if saying she doesn’t know. Chloe nods understanding. “I should get her home.”

          “If there’s anything she needs, just ask. She has saved a lot of people today.” Yasmin said. Chloe nods.

          “Talk to you guys later.” Then Chloe walked away back to her truck.

Chapter 5

Healing

          Somewhere between the drive back to Max’s house, she opened her eyes with a blank stare. When Chloe opened the truck door, she saw this.

          “Max... You feeling better?” Max nods. Chloe hugs her feeling so much relief. When she pulled away, she leaned her forehead against Max’s and held her cheek. “I’m so glad this shit is over.” Max nods. “I don’t miss the danger Max... I don’t. I don’t miss seeing you like that either.” Max nods. Chloe pulls away, while keeping Max’s cheeks in her hands. “Come on. We smell like smoke.” Max nods then Chloe gives her a quick kiss. She moves out of the way to let her jump down from the truck. But she wasn’t moving. “Max come on.” Max nods, but she doesn’t move. This is when Chloe started seeing something was off. “Max?” Max just nods. “Max?” She nods again. “Oh fuck...” Chloe went up to her, picked up her head again to look at her. “Max can you hear me?” She can feel her nodding in her hands. Chloe looks closer then snaps her fingers close to her eye. A responsive person would have blinked, or, backed away and blinked. But she didn’t get anything from her. Chloe stared at Max and started getting scared, remembering back to Arcadia Bay. When Max went through some weird time mindscape, she was kinda like this, but more unresponsive. Chloe picks her up and brings her in the house.

Chloe slowly put Max down, and she was able to stand on her own. That was at least good. Next thing she did was take off her jacket, and bracelets, leaving it on the ground, then she took off her shoes. When she was done, she went back to Max and grabbed her chin, making her look to her for a minute. She was still out of it. “Shit.” Chloe took a deep breath, then took off Max’s jacket, rings, necklace, Shoes, leaving them on the floor with hers. She picks her up again then took them upstairs to the bathroom. Chloe put her down, stared and sighed, thinking this is not the way she wanted to see Max naked again. She took their clothes off then started the shower.

When Chloe got them cleaned, she dried them, clothes then made Max lay in bed cuddling with her. She started reading one of her books. She didn’t care about the subject, she just didn’t want to worry about Max. She needed to be strong again, but she was scared. ‘She’ll wake up... Just like she did back then.’ She thought then her phone rang. She looked over to the nightstand, grabbed it, and answered.

          “Yeah?”

          “Chloe, it’s Moses. How is Max?”

          “She huh... Not responsive... But she’s awake...” Chloe took a deep breath and bit back tears.

          “You said you’ve seen her like that before.”

          “Yeah... I think I was 19? The storm? This is the longest she’s...” Chloe stopped herself for more than one reason. One of them being not wanting to cry. “Is there anything else you want Moses?”

          “I know this is tough for you. I’m just trying to understand what’s happening to Max right now.”

          “I don’t know. I’m really trying not to freak out.”

          “Understand. If anything changes.”

          “I’ll let you know.” Chloe hangs up the phone, turns off the light, turns and spoons with Max. “I’ll be right here. I’m not going anywhere.” Chloe said then kissed the back of her head and went to sleep.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

          The next morning Chloe woke herself coughing. She sat up and everything on her body hurt. When she got a hold of herself, she was able to breathe again. ‘After yesterday... I’m quitting smoking. Fuck this... Max?’ She thought, then looked over quickly to see she hasn’t moved.

          “Max.” Chloe slowly rolled her over. Max had her eyes shut looking like she was sleeping. Chloe checked to see if she was still breathing just to make sure... and she was. That was a little relief. Then Chloe notices something. She moved Max’s head towards her, and saw that her right bangs are white. ‘Holy shit... It happened again.’ Chloe touches her white hair. ‘But it’s faster this time. Really fucking fast... Max... I didn’t think this was this dramatic... I’m sorry.’

          Around 6 o-clock Chloe’s stomach wouldn’t shut up. She was used to not eating for days sometimes, but when she heard Max’s stomach, she couldn’t ignore it anymore. She never let Max go hungry in the past, and she’s not about to allow it now. ‘Damn it...’ She thought, then got up and went to the kitchen. Opening the fridge, she got annoyed. There was nothing in there but film.

          “Uhhggg...” She closed the door a little hard. She started thinking what to do, then looked at the ceiling where Max was laying down. ‘I don’t want to leave her by herself... But we need food.’ She sighed shaking her head. She chortled. ‘Just like the old days... Alright.’ Chloe went back upstairs, sat down and rubbed Max’s hair.

          “Star, I need to get us supplies. I will come back, okay?” Max nods. “I love you.” Chloe kisses her cheek and headed out.

          Chloe walks in the Turtle like her classic self, just without a jacket. She really didn’t want to be here but this was the closest place with relatively good food, depending on whose cooking. She walked up to the bar having no clue on what to order. Amanda comes out from the kitchen, and the moment she sees Chloe, she froze for a second. She didn’t see Max. Chloe wave to her not looking happy, and with a tired look.

          “Are you alright?”

          “Hey.”

          “Max was asking about you. Where is she? Is she alright?” Chloe sighs.

          “She’s home. I only came here to get some food for us.”

          “So you do know her personally?”

          “Yeah... She’s my girlfriend... The one I told you about.” Amanda was a little stunned by that.

          “That would explain so much... What can I get you?” Chloe shakes her head and looks down.

          “I don’t know.” Amanda stares seeing the defeated look on her face.

          “Alright. I’ll be right back.” She knocks on the bar then goes back to the kitchen. Sitting there, Chloe closed her eyes feeling just how tired she was. She almost fell a sleep until Amanda came back with a big brown bag, putting it on the bar in front of her. Chloe stands up.

          “How much?” Amanda shook her head.

          “Just take it.”

          “Really?”

          “Yeah. I put some of Max’s favorites in there so don’t worry.” Chloe wasn’t expecting that... And decided to return the favor.

          “Okay... Since the day of the fire. Max is... huh...catatonic.”

          “Oh my god...” Amanda said looking worried.

          “It’s like she’s not there... Thanks for the food. I’ll keep you posted if anything happens.” A tear runs down Amanda’s face as she nods to Chloe. Chloe walks out with the bag.

          When Chloe got home, she got dressed down and headed upstairs with the food and plates. Max was still in bed and hasn’t moved. She sits Max up again then feeds her.

          “Amanda said hi. She’s worried about you.” Max nods while chewing. Watching her eat, Chloe slowly cried, thinking if Max doesn’t snap out of it by tomorrow, she doesn’t have a choice but to check her in to a hospital.

          She spent the rest of the day petting Max’s hair while reading anything she got her hands on. Then she cried while holding Max.

          “Please come back to me Max. I don’t want to be without you anymore.” Max nods. Chloe kisses the back of Max’s head. “I love you, my Super Max.” She whispered then fell asleep laying with her.

–––⁂––––– })|({ –––––⁂–––

          A woman is sitting on a bench at the Overlook with a smile on her face. She was staring at the majesty and beauty of the observatory, when something fuzzy nibbles at her ear.

          “Max. Max snap out of it!” I blinked shaking my head. I was still at the overlook. I felt something nibble my ear again. I stood up quickly and turned around.

          “What the...” It was my Doe... I haven’t seen her in years. “You...”

          “Welcome back.” It talked. It never talked.

          “You can talk?”

          “Yes?... Oh... You still see me as a deer.”

          “Yeah.”

          “God Max... Open your damn eyes.”

          “I am?”

          “This is annoying... Look, behind, the Deer.” I had no clue what she was asking but I’ll try? I stared hard at the Doe, and I do see something. I looked harder than the veil was lifted.

          “Oh my Stars. Your Rachel.” She smiled.

          “Tada.”

          “You where my Doe?” She walks up to me.

          “Yes. And it’s very good to finally meet you Max.” I smiled wanting to hug her, and greet her properly, but...

          “Whoa, wait a minute.” I pointed. “Your dead... Oh no... Am I dead?” Rachel shakes her head.

          “No, but you shouldn’t be here. Let’s get you back.”

          “Where’s Chloe?!” I started panicking. Rachel grabs me and moves.

          “She’s home waiting for you.” I stopped walking, I’m getting scared now.

          “Is she dead? Are you taking me somewhere?” I started crying. Rachel shakes her head grabbing my arm.

          “Max. The only one whose dead is me. Chloe and your body are back at your house where you should be. Now come on. You’ve been here long enough.” We started moving again walking down from the overlook.

          “How am I here if I’m not dead?”

          “That I don’t know Max. But as soon as I felt Chloe’s distress. I woke up, if you want to call it that. And I saw why. You were not in your body. And I’ve been looking for you since.” There was a pause for a few minutes. Listening to her, there was so many questions I wanted to ask.

          “Why are you here Rachel? And not... somewhere else?”

          “Since you two left Arcadia Bay. I’ve been watching over Chloe the whole time.” I paused and now things started to make sense. Holy shit...

          “That’s why I haven’t seen you in years... Your attached to Chloe.”

          “Yep... But she can’t see me like you can.”

          “Why?”

          “I...” Rachel paused. I can see she wanted to say something and was struggling. “I can’t tell you that.”

          “Why?”

          “I don’t know. I just can’t, I’m sorry.” We got to the front of the observatory. I stopped and looked at how badly it was destroyed. Rachel comes up to me putting her hand on my shoulder.

          “That isn’t your fault.” I turned to her.

          “It feels that way.” Rachel shakes her head.

          “It’s not... Come on. We need to keep moving.” I nodded and we started walking again.

          “I’m sorry Rachel.”

          “For what?”

          “Everything... I hated you after a while.” Rachel laughs.

          “I know. You always put me on a pedestal Max. Quietly resenting me because you think I held Chloe’s favor all these years... I saw you. But don’t worry. I don’t hold a grudge against you.”

          “You should. I did something really bad to her that I don’t know if I can fix.”

          “I know. But I know she’ll be fine. I know that because you’ll do anything, including fucking up space and time, just to give her anything she asks for. Like when you went back and saved her father.”

          “You saw that?”

          “I did... That was...” She struggled again. “I can’t say.”

          “I’m sorry.”

We got back to my house, and I couldn’t open the door. Rachel just went through the wall. Well, this sucks... Rachel pops her head out with her brow raised.

          “What are you doing?”

          “I can’t open the door.”

          “Go through the wall you dummy.”

          “I can do that?” I widen my eyes in surprise.

          “In this form you can.” Rachel walks up behind me and pushed me through. I shut my eyes and laughed because it felt weird.

          “That was weird.”

          “It tickles until you get used to it.”

          “That’s one way of putting it.” Rachel smiled and waved to me.

          “Come on.” I nodded and we walked upstairs.

Now this was freaky seeing myself. But at the same time, I see Chloe crying so hard holding me.

          “It’s time.” Rachel touches my arm; I looked to her looking worried.

          “But what about you? I don’t want to leave you alone.” She gets a soft but shocked expression.

          “I’m surprised by that but. You don’t have a choice. You need to go back.”

          “But... aren’t you lonely?” Rachel paused and looked to us on the bed.

          “Sometimes. But stop worrying Max. We’ll see each other one day. That I can say.” She smiled.

          “Please come back to me Max.” When Chloe said that I felt this massive pull. It felt the same as if I jumped into a photo. We looked to her.  “I don’t want to be without you anymore.”

          “Oh Chloe...”

          “Go Max.” Rachel said. I looked to her.

          “But...”

          “Go!” She yelled. Rachel was right... I started breathing heavily and the pull was pulling me hard. I moved and got on the bed and jumped. I fell backwards into my body.

I heard a voice beckoning me through the darkness, one that shined so brightly, like the Dawn after a rainy night.

It woke me up.

          I opened my eyes, and all I can see was a dark room. I felt my breath, the air in my lungs. Then I remembered who I am. I’m Max Caulfield. I have time powers and a girlfriend/ life partner name Chloe Price... Chloe... I sat up quickly, looked around until I saw her sleeping next to me. I took a deep breath relaxing a little. I looked around again and realized I was in my room at my house. That’s right the fire... last thing I remember was falling asleep. I got up and went downstairs. Everything started becoming more familiar, until I saw clothes in the middle of the floor near my door. I walked up to them, picking them up a bunch of shit falls to the ground. Crap... They smelled like smoke. So I took them in the basement to do laundry. After getting that done I ran to the bathroom feeling the powerful need to pee. Sitting there, things are hitting me like a ton of bricks. Man I’m hungry... Where’s my phone? Okay, okay, just, one thing at a time!... Coffee.

I start up some Coffee then cleaned up whatever fell from the clothes, which was Chloe’s and I’s jewelry. Then I grabbed my laptop I keep on my coffee table in the living room, and took it back to the kitchen where I sat down and opened it. I dropped my jaw seeing what day it was. It was two days after the fire. Oh crap... I looked over seeing the coffee was done. I grabbed a mug and sat down again. I took a sip then saw my inbox. Emails from everyone.

Out of nowhere the lights get turned on. I looked up at them then towards the light switch. Chloe was standing there, jaw dropped and crying.

          “Chloe.”

          “Max.” She came up to me as I put my mug down and hugged me. She’s crying.

          “I know, shhh, I’m sorry.” Chloe pulled away from me, holding my face shaking her head. The smell of coffee probably woke her up. Fuck! My brain is still catching up. I should be more concern about Chloe right now... Now I’m starting to worry.

I took Chloe’s hand and led her back upstairs. I turned on the lights, then laid down with her holding her, letting her know I’m here awake. Oooh fuck she must have been terrified. I sat up, she looked to me. She’s calmer now.

          “I’m sorry Chloe. You must have been so scared. I know I would be.”

          “I was Max. I was going to take you to the hospital tomorrow.” I widen my eyes surprised by that. Wow, for Chloe to say that... just wow.

          “I’m sorry Chloe. I must have really pushed myself but, I couldn’t let you die.” She sits up and hugs me holding my head.

          “I would gladly die over and over again... then to see you die once Max... And that’s how it felt when you wouldn’t wake up... And I know you feel the same... And you saw it four times... I’m so sorry Max.” She started crying hard. Yyyeeeah... I remember all of them now... I teared up. And Chloe is right. I rather get shot in the face with a shotgun point blank then to see her die again. I pulled away from her hug and kissed her, laying her down. Her hands wandered innocently over every inch of my body.

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          The next morning, I got up… Not like I slept anyway. I had an amazing night with the love of my dreams. Every breath, moan, movement she made was still running through my body and mind like electricity, scattering across the sky. It was so much more then I remembered. And the word intense doesn’t even scratch the surface. I took a deep breath, then looked to her. She was laying there, looking so perfect, and at peace. I was tempted to take her again. Really, really tempted. But nnno, she can use to sleep more, aaand I had things to do. I grabbed my phone off the nightstand and headed downstairs. I started up some coffee again, then after getting my mug, I took my laptop and went to the living room.

Sitting down I took a sip of my coffee before putting it down. Then I opened my laptop. I sighed seeing my emails again, that I don’t know how to respond to just yet. I also just got a message from the school right now, saying that Caledon will be shutting down for the time being to rebuild. Soooo, that means I’m out of my job. Great... I looked up towards my window, resting my head on my hand, thinking. Now that Chloe was back in my life, there’s no fucking way I’m letting her go again. It’s surprising how everything is lining up for us. I smiled giving that a hard thought for a second. I went back to my laptop, went to my favorite program and started making lists of what was next for us.

1. Travel
2. Take so many pictures of us.
3. Go to Canada again!

    Etc

          An hour later of responding to some Emails. I get a kiss on my left shoulder, and Chloe sat down on the other end of the couch. When I looked up over to her, she was still naked, smiling at me. Oh my... That’s a lovely sight this morning. I smirked.

          “Morning.” She crawls slowly over to me.

          “Morning.” Oh fuck... I can’t stop staring.

          “You sleep well?”

          “Yes.” Chloe sits down rrreeeally close to me. And I can see everything... Man... this girl... fuck... huh, shit, what was I going to say? Calm yourself idiot.

          “Good.” I said calmly. “I made coffee. Help yourself.” Chloe stared at me.

          “That’s it?” OOooh man this girl...

          “Chloe, you are absolutely gorgeous. Mmm. But we have things to talk about.” I can feel my cheeks flush and I’m struggling to keep a straight face. Chloe stares then smirked warmly. No doubt she can see my dilemma. She sits down normally then moves me to cuddle up to her left side... Damn she smells good... concentrate Max!

          “Like what?” She asked. I took a deep breath. I would say I dodged a bullet, but fuck... She really knows how to rile me up.

          “Now that we’re back together again, we need to talk about what’s next.”

          “Yeah... Max I can’t stay away from my band for too much longer.” She said sounding a little guilty.   

          “I figured. Which this is good timing actually.”

          “Why?”

          “The school is shutting down… So I’m out of a job.”

          “Really?” I turned around and smiled.

          “Yeah. So I guess it’s decided. I’m going on the road with you again.” I smiled.

          “Max. You would leave this place? You love it here.”

          “I do, but I love you more Chloe. And I’m not letting you leave without me. Not ever again.” She smiled then kissed my forehead.

          “I love you too... And hey, we can always come back later if that’s what you want? I know you love teaching Max.”

          “Hearing that from you makes me so happy Chloe... But for now. I need to focus on being with you. And that means going on the road. So that means, I need to move all my stuff out… Uhhgg. I suppose I can talk to Yasmin and see if she’s cool with me leaving most of it here. That way, it gives me an excuse to come back. Like you said.”

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September 24, 2024        (Tuesday)

Lots to go over… But where to start? Well… we stopped the whole school from going up in flames, apart from the observatory. So far, no deaths have been reported. That is always good news.

I remember the first time I saw Caledon a year and a half ago. After years of breaking into abandoned houses and rotting factories. It looked impossibly beautiful. The stone buildings, rolling hills dotted with sculpture… I think it healed some small, broken piece of my heart. I know it did. And now…

– Turn the page and writes –

I wonder what it will feel like this time, when Chloe and I finally drive out of town. Guilt? Abandonment just like the last time? Maybe… The campus is scarred now. Scarred in a way that I couldn’t prevent. It just seems like every home I had I destroy… Including my Chloe. And I don’t want to do that anymore.

So this time, now that I have Chloe back in my life. I’m going to fight like hell to rebuild what we lost… And I will make us a home again. One that we can be happy together. Wh –

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Out of nowhere, Chloe rips my book out of my hand when I was in the middle of writing. Then she tosses it across the room.

          “Cccchloeee!” I whined, then she gets on top of me.

          “I’ve been naked all day so far, and you haven’t given me any attention.” I paused then smiled warmly.

          “I see you, Chloe. I do.” I put my hand on her cheek, then shook my head. “There’s no way not to.”

          “Then touch me Max. I want you.” I sighed still having a smile on my face. I didn’t say anything but stared in her beautiful eyes. Chloe got the cue and kissed me, laying me down on the couch.

Healing Pt 2

Wrapping Things Up

          My phone rings. I look over to the nightstand for a second seeing who it was, Yasmin. Damn it… I need to take that. I didn’t want to stop what I was doing, so I answered the phone putting it on speaker, then held Chloe’s mouth shut. “Hello?” I said sounding like I’m running.

          “Maxine. You feeling better?”

          “Yes, much better thank you. Just getting a little exercise in. What’s up?”

          “The reason I called. I would like it if you come in. There are some things I like to discuss with you.”

          “Huh…” I looked down at Chloe. “I’ll be there in an hour. Is that okay?”

          “Yes, that will give me some time to get things done.” I know the feeling…

          “Okay Yasmin. I’ll see you later.”

          “Bye.” I hung up the phone. I looked down to Chloe again, and uncovered her mouth. She was staring at me not making a sound.

          “Max… Did you just…”

          “I’m sorry.” I widen my eyes as she sat up. Shit, shit, shit, shit! “I’m sorry Chloe!”

          “It’s too late for that!” She smirked pushing me down on the bed.

          After Chloe took all her frustrations out on me… Which made me a half an hour late for my appointment. Chloe and I get to the admin building finally. As we walked to Yasmin’s office she was looking around.

          “I guess all of this place is as swanky as the rest of it.” Chloe said then we turned the corner. I stopped for a second seeing Vinh looking pretty messed up. I didn’t think I’d see him here after what happened. I walk up to his desk. He looks up seeing me then raised his brow at Chloe.

          “Here to see Yasmin?” I moved in his view to stop him from staring at my girlfriend.

          “Yes, what are you doing here Vinh?” He didn’t say anything and just waved towards the door. Chloe was staring him down. I knew what she was thinking… that she could beat the shit out of this guy. I grabbed her wrist and yanked it. “Chloe.” She looked to me looking slightly mad. I shook my head. “Please don’t.” I begged. She paused then nodded with a calm look. She followed me up to the door. I knocked.

          “Come in!” We both go in and Yasmin looked puzzled when she saw Chloe.

          “Hey, Yasmin.”

          “Maxine. Good to see you after the tragedy at the observatory.”

          “Thank you.”

          “And who’s this? I seen you at the overlook.” Chloe smirked nodded.

          “Chloe. Max’s girlfriend.”

          “Girlfriend?” She looked to me looking surprised.

          “Yes, that kind.” She nods.

          “There is a reason I wanted to talk to you in person Maxine. Due to what happened and, from all the reports. Your name, as well as two others, have attracted a lot of attention. In other words. You have become a hero. You have saved so many that day. So I am planning on putting together a hero’s memorial. I was hoping to get your blessing.”

          “That sounds pretty awesome Max.” Chloe added. I looked to her thinking about it.

          “Huh… Do I have to give any statements or interviews? I don’t think I’m ready for that.” Yasmin smiled.

          “No, I took care of that myself.” I took a deep breath feeling relieved.

          “Okay then… when is it?”

          “Five days from now. Would that be enough time?” Chloe laughs.

          “Yeah. Perfect, that’s around the time Chloe and I are leaving.”

          “Your leaving?” I sighed giving myself a moment.

          “Yes… At least for a little while, and that’s why I needed to talk to you Yasmin. I was wondering if I can leave my belongings here? In storage… if that’s okay?” Yasmin paused for a moment then nodded.

          “Yes. They will be waiting for your return.”

          “Thank you, Yasmin.” Chloe and I stand and was about to head out.

          “Max. Have you spoken to Safiya?” I shook my head no.

          “No. You’re the first person I talked to since the fire.”

          “Safi’s trying, but she’s okay. I thought she be with you.” Chloe added. I looked to Chloe.

          “You two are talking?” Chloe looks to me and shrugs.

          “She was briefly. But she left shortly after.” Chloe nodded.

          “Thank you, Yasmin I’ll keep in touch.” She nods and we leave.

          Outside Chloe and I walked around hand to hand. Her beautiful azure eyes were looking over every inch of this place in wonder.

          “I can see why you like it here.” She spoke to me.

          “It is, was, the closest to a home I had.”

          “And now?” I stopped, paused, then looked to her.

          “Chloe, after Arcadia was destroyed. You were my home. You always were... But then I destroyed that too.” I sighed. She rubs my cheek with a soft look. I grabbed her hand and held it, then she kissed me.

          “Ms. Caulfield!” I stop kissing Chloe and looked to my students.

          “Loretta, Reggie.”

          “What happen to your hair?” Reggie asked. Loretta shakes her head.

          “This is the first time we seen her since the fire and you asked about her hair?... Stupid.” Loretta pulls out her recorder and starts it. “So people are calling you a hero. Any comments?” I sighed putting down the recorder. Loretta stops it.

          “I’m dealing with a lot at the moment Loretta. But how are you doing?”

          “A little freaked out.”

          “It’ll be alright, okay?”

          “Wait... you’re the one I saw in the basement. Who are you?” Reggie asked Chloe. Chloe smirked. And I knew what she was about to say... to my students.

          “I’m Max’s girlfriend, Chloe.” Both Reggie and Loretta widen their eyes.

          “I was not expecting that.” Loretta said.

          “They look so different from each other.” Reggie adds too.

          “Guys!” They all looked to me. “I think that’s enough about my love life… So, it was nice to see you but, Chloe and I have things to do. Be safe you two.” I pulled Chloe away muttering, “Did you have to do that?” She laughed.

          “Of course. Your mine.” She kisses me. I smiled shaking my head, quietly loving that fact.

(Cue Music: Blind Melon – No Rain)

          I took Chloe to the quad, and showed her around. She took my picture of us on the snail, then we laid on the grass together, cuddling. I haven’t felt this kind of peace in a long time.

          “I love you, Chloe.” I muttered on her chest. She rubs my back.

          “I love you too Max.” I sat up looking to her.

          “Come on. Time to go home.”

          “Why?”

          “Lunch.” Chloe looks to be giving that a thought then shrugs.

          “I can always eat.” I get off of her then helped her up, give her a quick kiss and ran off.

When she caught up to me, I laughed as she pulled me into her. She took my hand and we walked through the school and up to the observatory. This was the first time I laid eyes on it since the fire... Staring at it I started to feel guilty.

          “That’s not your fault Max.” I looked to her, having some serious deja vu.

          “It feels that way.”

          “No. Come on.” Serious deja vu...

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

– Texts –

Drugstore Makeup

Good news ladies. I called some bars. I can get a few more gigs on the drive to Seattle.

And better news – we should arrive in Wyoming just in time to see your show.

Bash

Holy shit, you’re coming back?!

Izzie

Holy shit, “we”?

Marisol

Wait. Waaaait. Was all of this about a girl?

Yes and no. I’ll see you in a few days. Get ready for the best concert photos of your lives.

          Chloe and I worked hard on packing up all my things for two days, and putting them in storage… Well the best we could… without being distracted on each other… It’s still hard to process everything that happened… and Chloe… Stars, I have Chloe back… and all this cost was a building, and my world to get turned upside down… and my hair… I laughed. It’s the middle of the night and Chloe is sleeping. Staring at her it is hard to describe. She opens her eyes catching me spying on her.

          “You’re being a creep again.” I smiled putting my hand on her cheek.

          “No. It’s just hard to sleep. Because every time I catch you in my sight, your beauty knows no bound. You’re so beautiful Chloe… even in your sleep.” She takes a deep breath and smiled.

          “I think you got that backwards.” I shook my head.

          “No. We both know you’re the better looking out of the two of us. Even Rachel would have agreed.” I laughed.

          “Using Rachel huh?”

          “Am I wrong?” Chloe pulled me up on the bed and spoons me, kissed my neck.

          “Max.” She paused. “I huh… Shit… don’t ever sell yourself short. You are just as beautiful as I am… more in my eyes. And for now on. I’ll do my best to show you that. Everyday Max.” I blushed in the dark. “Even when I catch shit for being less metal as I am.” I laughed, then turned around in her arms.

          “I love you, Chloe. I love you so much.” She kisses the top of my head and pulls me closer, taking a deep breath.

          “I love you to. Thank you for being my best friend Max... and the love of my life. I’m so lucky to have you.” I reached up and kissed under her chin, then got closer and went to sleep.

          “Always Chloe.”

-Memorial-

          The day before the memorial, Chloe and I were ready for our trip. I also sent out a huge message to all my friends that I haven’t gotten back to, that I would be at the Turtle. Early… Because I know all of them are going to be worried and wanting to know how I’m doing. Chloe and I kinda have been keeping to ourselves.

We walk into the Turtle hand in hand. She was more worried how I would react to my friends today. So we took the booth on the wall next to the stage and sat down. Chloe on the outside of course. The first person to come and talk to us was Amanda. When she sat down across from me, she stared almost jaw opened.

          “What?” I asked.

          “Are you okay? Last time I heard, Chloe told me you were catatonic.”

          “I was. I went through an extremely traumatic event… where Chloe almost died, Safi, Moses… that’s probably why my hair is white.” I smiled. “I’m sorry I haven’t gotten around to telling anyone. I’ve just been sooo. Everywhere.”

          “I understand.”

          “Amanda. I want to say thank you for being my friend. Being yourself. And thank you for helping Chloe a week ago.”

          “You’re welcome… Bbbut, why does this sound like a goodbye?” I paused.

          “Because it is.” Amanda started looking sad. “After what happened, Chloe and I need to get out for a while. Just until things calm down.” Amanda nods as more people start walking in.

          “We’ll talk later?” I nodded, and she went to go help the people who just came in. I took a deep breath.

          “Was that bad?” I asked Chloe.

          “Ah, could be better. So start thinking of what to say later.” I laughed, then leaned on her. She wrapped her arm around me. “Hungry?”

          “Yes.”

          As the day went on more people kept coming in. As soon as Safi and her mom walked through. Chloe tapped my side waking me up.

          “Hmm?”

          “Safi is here. With her mom. I think the memorial is starting soon. Will you be alright by yourself? I need to have a talk with Safi.” I nodded, yawned, and sat up from my cuddle spot on Chloe side.

          “Yeah. I’ll join you soon. Love you.” Chloe stands, walks away, then comes back and smiled.

          “Didn’t think I’d forget to kiss you, did you?” I chuckled as she kissed me before wandering off again.

          After eating the food Chloe ordered for me, I took another nap, then Chloe woke me up for the Memorial. Everyone was out on the deck and Yasmin was at the front. Chloe held me from behind as Yasmin started.

          “A school is many things: a home, a classroom, a space for dreams. It is a grand collaboration between scholars of the past, present, and future. Like all worthy projects, it is difficult to build, rewarding to maintain, and frighteningly easy to destroy… Never has this been more apparent. Caledon is a name we put to an idea, one which demands the best of us… Many years ago, I made a decision that fell terribly short. I have been running from it ever since. But we can all choose today, this moment, to begin living up to that ideal. To reject hate. To choose… life.” Yasmin nods. “Thank you.” Everyone claps then, wanders off. I turned around seeing Chloe holding one of my smaller cameras. I smiled.

          “Thought you might want this. I already took some pictures but I’m pretty damn sure there not as good as the ones you’ll take.” I take it then kissed Chloe’s cheek.

          “Thank you.”

          “I’ll be over talking to Safi. Just come by whenever you’re done mingling.” I nodded as she kisses my cheek and went off again. I wander around taking pictures to remember this day. Then I wandered back inside and found Yasmin sitting at a table by herself looking over her phone. She looked up at me, I waved and sat down.

          “Maxine. It was good to see you in the audience.”

          “I wouldn’t miss it. Your speech was lovely. You think Caledon can rebuild?”

          “I think we must. Necessity is the mother of many things.”

          “How does the board feel about having you back in charge?”

          “Delighted.”

          “Really?”

          “Yes, especially when I told them I would only step in until a suitable replacement could be found.”

          “I see…” Yasmin nods. “So what’s next? Do you know when the school will reopen?”

          “As soon as we can. I wish I knew more than that. In truth, I wish I knew many things about Caledon’s future. And what part, if any, will play in it.” I paused to think on that…

          “I know the feeling.”

          “Just know, should you choose to remain, you will always have a home here.”

          “That is heartening to know.”

          “Caledon needs you. And, while I’m still working to understand my daughter, I suspect that she needs you, too.”

          “I’ll do the best I can while I’m on the road with my girlfriend.”

          “Ah… Chloe was it?” I nodded. There was a pause.

          “The police have asked to speak to me, and I plan to tell them everything. I only hope I can right the ship before my image is tainted beyond repair. Besides, my time would be better spent elsewhere. I have been given a second chance to rebuild a relationship with Safiya, and I don’t plan to waste it.”

          “I don’t mean to over step but, just be very careful with her Yasmin. What you did to her and the woman she loved is short of the word, “unforgivable.” She didn’t comment on what I said, just looked down with regret in her eyes. “But I will take your advice. Take care, Yasmin.” She nods and I walk off.

I talked to Vinh. He basically thanked me for reminding him of who he was, and that he’s leaving the school for something new. Which was a good thing because he needs to get out of this place.

Then I moved on to Moses. He was sitting alone, and when he saw me, he smiled. I sat down next to him.

          “Enjoying your victory lap?” I chuckled.

          “The fire still happened Moses. Not much of a victory.”

          “But no one died, Max.” I nodded agreeing with him. “That’s incredible.” He sighs. “You and Chloe saved so many people that day.”

          “You did too Moses. Any of this wouldn’t have been possible without you. And the people will never know what we did together.” I smiled. He smiled.

          “I’m happy to share that secret podium. We did what we could, with the time we had. I can live with that.” We paused. “It’s too bad you’re leaving just when Safi came back.”

          “How did you…” It took me a second.

          “You talked to Chloe.”

          “Yeah. But I understand. And the next time you’re in town, we’re having a No True Samurai marathon. Chloe said she wanted to check it out.” I sighed grudgingly then laughed.

          “This is what I get for introducing you two.” He smiled. “Chloe and I will be around for a bit. I’ll talk to you later?”

          “I’ll be right here.” I nodded to him then walked outside.

Chloe looked to me as I made my way to Reggie. He looked to be deep in thought.

          “Hey Reggie.” He turns seeing me.

          “Hey Max.”

          “How are you holding up?”

          “Man… I don’t even know anymore.”

          “Have you spoken to Vinh at all?”

          “No. But somebody dug that body out of the Hall of Secrets. And who else knew how to…” He drifted to a dark place a bit. “I don’t even want to think about it.”

          “How is Abraxas handling everything?”

          “For now, with a lot of emails that say “no comment.” But the long term, I have some thoughts. Those alums, who knew about the body… They cared more about their reputation than the victim’s family. It’s disgusting. Abraxas was never supposed to be the Skull and Bones. It was a refuge for outcasts… And, maybe it can be again.”

          “I have faith with you as it’s leader. You could do anything Reggie.” He looked to me with new hope in his eyes.

          “You think so?”

          “Yes.” He smiled. “Listen Reggie. I’m going to be leaving soon. And I just wanted to tell you that. I have always liked you. You were my star pupil... And now that I’m not your teacher anymore, I would like us to be actual friends. So if you need anything, or just want to talk. You have my number.” Reggie looked surprised and happy.

          “Really? Thanks Max. That means a lot.” I smiled then tapped his arm, and walked away. After having a small conversation with diamond who called me, I went back to Chloe and Safi. Chloe wrapped her arms around my waist as I stood next to her.

          “You have fun?” Chloe asked.

          “Because of you I’m stuck watching an anime marathon. If we even come back here.” Chloe laughs. I looked to Safi. “Are you too behaving?”

          “For the most part.” Safi said. I chuckled. “Chloe said it went well.”

          “It did. Yasmin seems happy to be back in charge.”

          “My mother is good in a crisis. Especially the ones she created.” I nodded agreeing with her. “I wish she told me what happened when she was in Abraxas. It… it excuse anything but… it helps begin to understand her.”

          “How have you been since the fire? Haven’t been back to that lighthouse?”

          “No. I can still feel it. But it’s… manageable… Like an itch that I’m learning not to scratch.” Chloe nodded. “I guess all of us have the seed of our deaths planted inside us. But I’m trying not to focus on mine while I still have a life to live.”

          “That was so metal.” Chloe commented. Safi chuckles.

          “So what’s your next step? Gonna hit the road again, like us?” Safi shook her head.

          “Since it worked out so well last time? No, I think I’ll stick around. Get used to… wearing my own face again.” I chuckled.

          “It’s a face I’m glad to see.” Safi blushed a little. Chloe stands up from her seat and takes my hand.

          “We’ll be inside for a while. Join us when you’re ready Safi.” Safi nods but wouldn’t stop staring at me. I let go of Chloe.

          “Chloe.”

          “Hmm?”

          “I actually need to talk to Safi.” She stared at me then nodded.

          “Okay. I'll be inside.” I nodded and kissed her cheek. She walks away and I turned to Safi and sat down.

          “Safi. Since everything happened, we haven’t found the time to really talk.”

          “I know.” I paused.

          “I hope seeing me with Chloe doesn’t bother you.”

          “Not going to lie Max. It does a little. But I’ll tell you what I told Chloe. You don’t have to fear anything from me.” I widen my eyes.

          “Wow... What did Chloe say about that?”

          “Mmm... Threats of kicking my teeth in... Something like that... Honestly Max, I wouldn’t have backed off if I didn’t see how much she loves you.” I paused.

          “Oh Safi...”

          “It’s okay Max.”

          “Excuse me. I don’t mean to interrupt.” A woman said in a southern accent. When I looked up to her, I got creeped out. Safi widen her eyes looking to her with almost her jaw dropped. “but I traveled a long way. Can I have a minute with Safi?” I stared then stood up and nodded.

          “She has a better accent.” I pointed out. Safi got an annoyed look then looked to the woman.

          “Just give me a minute.” She said to the woman. “Max.” I nodded. “There’s one more thing I need to come clean about.” I nodded again. Safi whispers in my ear. “You know the week after the storm happened?... That wasn’t a dream or a delusion.” Oh my Stars… I can feel my face turning red. “I love you Max.” She whispered again then kissed my cheek. She turned to the woman again, leaving me a bit miffed. “Ivy, what are you doing here?” Safi said as I slowly walked away thinking about her words.

          “Max?” Chloe said as I came up to her with a red face.

          “I’m fine. I’ll tell you about it once we leave okay Chloe?”

          “Alright…”

          Chloe and I stayed for most the day. When the bar got quiet Safi came in with Ivy, and joined us, Moses, and Amanda. We talked about past memories laughed and ate. And when it got late Chloe turned to me.

          “It’s time Max.” I nodded and Chloe got up taking my hand. Everyone follows us outside. We hugged and said our goodbyes, then Chloe and I drove off.

          As we drove to, I don’t know where… just like old times, I leaned against the truck door and started thinking. And just as the old times, I started feeling this sinking hole like it was before when I left a destroyed Arcadia. This is when Chloe stomped on the breaks. I looked around wide eyed, and saw nothing that would make her hit her break so hard. “Chloe what the hell?” She just sat there and stared outside for a moment before turning to me.

          “I know that look Max.” I sighed. She just caught me.

          “It’s not what you think Chloe. Yes, it feels the same. But that wasn’t my home.”

          “Did you wanna go back?” I looked to her puzzled.

          “No. My home is where you are Chloe… every where else is nothing compared to that.” She took a moment and tried not to smile.

          “I just don’t like seeing you like that. That was one of the reasons I left you.”

          “I’m not blaming you for anything Chloe. I would never. And unlike back then. I’m willing to work stuff out rather than keep it to myself. I won’t leave you in the dark. Not again. I will always be an open book to you. No matter how embarrassing it might be… I love you. However, that, will never change. Sorry...” Chloe started driving again with a big ole smile on her face.

          “Good. Better start driving before I decide to fuck you till the morning, which would make us late.” I blushed, and moved over to her cuddling her side, as she put her arm around me.

          “I forgot how big of a horn dog you are Chloe.” She smiled.

          “Yep.”

Chapter 6

An Unexpected Match

          Chloe and I have been driving nonstop from Vermont to Wyoming. Taking turns driving and sleeping. Just like old times. During this trip my thoughts were going back and forth between, was this the right thing to do? Or not. Then I would look down at Chloe, resting her head on my lap sleeping. And the voices of doubt would quiet down. In the next two stops when we have to fill the tank. It’s Chloe’s turn to drive. I yawned, good, I’m getting tired.

          When I woke up, it was night… This is going to get some taking use too. I can hear people talking, yelling, loud music and glass breaking. The smell of cigarette smoke and beer permeated where ever the hell I am. Chloe isn’t here… and it seems like we’re at a bar. Am I ready to do this again? I shook my head. I can’t think of that right now. I got to find Chloe. I slowly sat up, moved then opened the door. I stepped down and stretched then put up my hair. The moment I turned, I jumped seeing three very punk girls… more so than Chloe. They just stared at me with puzzled looks.

          “I’m sorry.” I said, then I saw Chloe walking out from behind them, carrying what looks to be a drum? She sees me then puts down the thing and walked up to me. I hugged her feeling my anxiety calm down a little. “Chloe.” I took a deep breath, then she pulled away from me and turned to the girls.

          “This is Max.” She said to them. Oooh that make sense now. It’s been a long time since I seen them. This is Chloe’s band. I waved.

          “Hi.” They just kept staring, like they were trying to figure out something.

          “I did not expect that…” One of them said. Another shook her head.

          “When you told us you were bringing someone Chloe, we didn’t expect to see a… beatnik hippy?” I was surprised by that response. I looked down at myself then to Chloe… Yeah I suppose they’re right. I chuckled. Chloe looked like she was about to blow up. I grabbed her arm. She looked at me.

          “They do have a point.”

          “Max…”

          “It’s okay Chloe. We do look out of place.” I chuckled then looked to them. “Hi, I’m Max. Chloe’s girlfriend.”

          “Girlfriend?!” One shouts then laughs. They walk up to us.

          “The photographer Chloe mentioned?” I nodded. “She left out the girlfriend part.” I looked to Chloe. She sighed shaking her head.

          “Didn’t have time. You guys were already on stage.”

          “You could have texted.”

          “Bash…” Chloe growled.

          “Chloe.” She looks to me seeing the tiredness on my face. She nods.

          “Alright Max.”

          “Wooowww. I’m not used to seeing Chloe so calm.”

          “Yeah, she’s usually a bitch.”

          “Bash…” Chloe got angry for a moment then calmed down and looked at me. She turned away from the girls.

          “Are you okay?” I nodded.

          “Yeah, it’s going to take a little time. But we’ll get through it together.” I grabbed her hand. She smirked warmly at me and nodded.

          “I gotta get back to it.” I smiled letting her hand go. “And if they bother you! Just tell me, and I’ll kill them.” I laughed.

          “Don’t worry Chloe. I think they’ll be nice…” Her band made kissing noises towards Chloe.

          “Shut the fuck up…” Chloe muttered, walking back inside. Her band walks up to me.

          “So you take pictures.”

          “Yes, I have a good reputation in the art industry. And I won a national reward, for one of my photos.” The girl widens her eyes.

          “Impressive. Chloe didn’t go into detail.”

          “Thanks. I hope I can help.” The girls look to one another and nodded. Chloe was so fast she had everything packed up in minutes. She took a deep breath as she walked back up to me.

          “We’re ready to head out?” Everyone except one girl got in Chloe’s truck. I cuddled up to her again as she wrapped her arm around me. Then we went off.

– Texts –

Drugstore Makeup

Bash

Okay, Max is THE coolest. Tell her to wear our merch to the next show,

it would look good on her.

Izzie

REALLY good on her.

Easy tiger.

Max’s Journal Entry

So far, it’s been different, traveling with people. But once I got to know Chloe’s band a little better it’s kinda fun. And I think one of them has a crush on me...

They, as Chloe puts them, are loveable fuck ups. But they’re sweet people. And they love teasing Chloe on how soft she is around me. -laughs-

– Turn the page and writes –

Today we got into this town the girls knew of. And when things opened, there was a clothing shop they loved, they wanted to go to. They offered me to join them. And since Chloe was still sleeping, I thought it be a nice outing, so I went.

We got into the conversation about Chloe at some point. They almost didn’t believe half the things I said. But I told them that I never really had to impress her. In the past Chloe never really made me dress up... Well... Can’t say that exactly... She did buy me lingerie once, but they don't need to know that! Gees...

But then they were like “oh yeah? You put on some punk clothes, make up your hair, and a little make up… She’ll tear your clothes off. Guarantee it.”

Now, I was the one to dress her up in the past... Sometimes she would just do it to get my attention that day. And it worked every time. I would make her get dressed up in form fitting cocktail dresses… Oh man... She was so embarrassed sometimes… like “girlishly embarrassed” but fucking gorgeous.

-Chuckled thinking about it-

But I never really dressed up for her. Not like that. And she never asked. Sooo why the hell not. I picked out an outfit, Band approved, and tonight, I’m going to blow Chloe’s mind. I can’t wait to see her face.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

          I turned Chloe’s alarm off, and when she needed to be up. I was there with a hot cup of coffee, on her nightstand. I got under the blanket and hovered above her sleeping self. I kissed up her back slowly. She takes a deep breath as she wakes up with me laying on her back. I kissed her cheek. She moved her tired azure eye on me.

          “Good morning, Chloe bear.” She smiled.

          “Morning Star. You got me Coffee. Thank you.” I smiled then rolled over, lying next to her. She grabs me and pulls me under the sheets, cuddling. I looked to her then kissed her.

          “It’s time to get up babe.” She grunts then uncovers us. She then sits up and yawns. She takes a moment before finding the coffee I left on her nightstand. I got up and sit behind her, hugging her, kissing her bare back.

          “Your being awfully nice Max. Romantic this morning.”

          “You started it.” She looked back to me and smirked.

          “I did not.” I laughed. She put her coffee down, stood up, and turned around laying on top of me. She kissed my neck.

          “I wish I had time to return the romance Star. But I need to work now... And don’t rewind.” She smirked standing, walking towards the bathroom.

          “Fresh!” She pops her head out and smiled.

          “Always.” I laughed as she closed the door. Once I heard the shower, I quickly grabbed one of my smaller traveling bags and put my new clothes in it. I put on a robe and ran out to her truck, hiding it under the driver seat. Then I ran back inside, took off what little clothes I had off, and joined Chloe in the shower.

          “Max! Whoa!” I laughed pushing her out of the water.

          At the bar, when she got everything set up, and myself with my camera. Chloe was in the back room waiting for her band to show up. That’s when I slipped away. I put on the clothes, tied my hair back, and put on the makeup as instructed. By the time the band showed up, I just walked out of her truck.

          “Holy shit Max… Your hot.” Marisol said. I bowed.

          “Thank you.” The other two just stared. I was wearing a white belly shirt, bear midrift. Black belly jacket with drugstore makeup logo on my left sleeve, and a deer, an owl, and a lightening bug pin on my front pocket. Black jeans with a belt and my dock ankle high boots. The girls gave me some of their jewelry to wear, which made the set.

          “I’m sooo jealous… Fucking Chloe…” Bash said. I laughed and went in the bar. I knocked on the green room door.

          “Yeah?” Chloe yells. I walked in with a big smile. But she was looking at her phone.

          “Chloe?”

          “Mmm?” She was still staring at her phone looking angry as usual.

          “The band is here, and I’m all set up.”

          “About fucking time.” Chloe muttered then stood up and looked at me. She froze with a shocked but ever growing blush on her cheeks. I smiled staring at her stupid face and laughed a little.

          “You like it?” Chloe moved her mouth but no words were coming. Izzie peeks in, seeing Chloe standing there.

          “Damn Max. I think you broke her.”

          “Yeah. This was so worth it.” I laughed again and followed Izzie out.

          Chloe, for this show, had to stand in front. So I did my thing and took pictures of everything. When I was done for now. I sat at the bar and ordered a water and chatted up the bartender. He was very nice. After having a bite to eat, and talking to the bartender more. This guy walks up to me and starts talking to me. At first, he seemed okay… But then he got to close, and tried to hit on me. I forgot why I hated hanging out in bars... There was always some drunk asshole hitting on me... sighs.

          “Sir. I’m not interested.”

          “Why? I can take care of you…” He said with a creepy rapy smile. I kept telling him no, and he got ballzy and touched my back. I smacked his hand off of me.

          “Don’t fucking touch me!” I yelled very loudly but this guy wouldn’t leave me alone. I don’t know what came over me, but I must have instinctually tapped into my inner Chloe again. And before the Bartender could yell at this guy, I smirked then stood up from the wooden bar stool I was sitting on, then grabbed it, then hit this guy so hard with it, I broke the stool and the guy falls passed out on the floor. “Dick!” I turned to the bartender. “I’m so sorry I’ll pay for it.” He stared at the guy on the floor for a moment, shaking his head with a smile.

          “Na it’s fine.”

          “Are you sure?! Because I can… Whoa!” I shouted, as Chloe picked me up, put me over her shoulder, and took me out of the bar. “Chloe! Chloe!” I yelled through the building, then she threw me in the bed of her truck. I turned over seeing her, wide eyed. She points at me.

          “Stay here, and don’t even think about leaving until I get you!” Then she slammed the door shut. I sat there thinking, and was completely shocked at what she just did. She has never handled me like that before. I think I may have pissed her off… I think? I sighed. I took a nap, and when I woke up, the truck was moving… Oh shit, she’s really pissed at me… I dreaded the door opening.

          When the truck stopped which, I’m guessing at the hotel. The doors opened violently. I widen my eyes as I saw Chloe. I backed up a little, but she reached in and grabbed my ankle and pulled me.

          “Chloe! Chloe I’m sorry!” She said nothing but put me on her shoulder. “Chloe I’m sorry!” She opened the door then slammed it shut with her foot, then she threw me on the bed. I watched her in fear as she started putting her stuff down. Then she turned to me... I started breathing heavily as she slowly walked up to the bed. She took her jacket off then crawled up to me, forcing me to lay down as she gets on top.

          “Max…” She said with a blank look on her face.

          “I’m sorry Chloe that guy wouldn’t leave me alone. Don’t be mad please?”

          “That was hot.” She said plainly. I was too busy scrambling to come up with excuses, I didn’t hear her.

          “I… What?” I raised my brow, when I finally caught on.

          “That was hot... And you look…” She shakes her head with a smirk. It took me a moment again then it clicked. Ooh… I impressed her… Oooooh… I’m in trouble. Chloe must have saw the look of realization on my face, then nodded to me slowly with a smirk still. Oh shit... “This is why you were nice to me this morning.”

          “Chloe. Mmm!” She then moved very fast, and ripped open my shirt like a rabid beast, then my bra, exposing me. I blushed when she touched me. I couldn’t get in a word at this point. “When I saw you break the chair over that dude. I nearly came. Max Caulfield, Ex hippy now finally a punk.”

          “Not really...” I muttered, putting my hand on her cheek. “I just really want to treat you, Chloe. You been working hard lately. But I’m not going to lie. You are kinda freaking me out right now.” She stares at me for a moment, then slowly, carefully, she gives my neck a kiss. I sighed and calmed down, she saw I was scared a little.

          “I forgot I’m sorry.” I picked her head up.

          “That didn’t trigger my trauma, Chloe.” I rubbed her cheek. “And I don’t mind you treating me like that. It was just a little too fast, that’s all.” She takes my wrist, pulling it off her cheek. Then she moves up and kissed me, pinned my arm above my head gently. Now I’m feeling more comfortable. When she moves from my lips down, I whispered.

          “Don’t keep me waiting Chloe.” She looked to me and smirk then pinned my other arm roughly. Then she bit my side hard.

Chapter 7

Learning

March 11, 2025        (Tuesday)

To the most… I don’t know... Frivolous poems nor pretty words couldn’t touch on what describe you to me. But your it, Chloe Price… Someone who is so extraordinary, that the Mundane wouldn’t know what to do with you.

Chloe, if we were to go back to when we were kids. I think Long Max silver, would hang her hat permanently. For she finally found the one treasure that is worth more than all the gold in the world. Priceless. (Pun intended.)

– Turn the page and writes –

          The last few months with you, was something I’d imagine it would have been like back then. Just absolutely magical. Relearning who you are now, has been such an amazing experience. Seeing this person makes me love you even more Chloe Price. Something I didn’t think was possible. But that’s the thing about you… You constantly surprise me. Past me always said, “I could never say no to a blue haired girl.” But past me never met this green haired one. She’s more Kind, Caring, A secret romancer, Loyal, Loving, and so much more than the blue could ever achieve… Well… in a sense but. -Laughs-

Anyway, that’s enough of my saying how amazing you are. Though you would disagree. But it’s time for me to wake you up now. I have plans for your special day.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

I put my Journal a side then got up and laid behind sleeping Chloe. I moved her long blonde green hair out of her face. I kissed her neck ever so gently, but that was enough to wake her. She takes a deep breath then turns seeing me. She smirked then rolled back over on to her stomach.

          “Good morning birthday girl. It’s time to get up.” She grunts then hugs a pillow, burying her face in it.

          “For my birthday Max I want to sleep…” I laughed then laid on her back, whispering in her ear.

          “Come on… I have plans you’ll like.” She pokes her head out.

          “Plans?” She turns over as I lay on her again.

          “Yeah. But you’re just going to have to see.”

          “Not that I don’t want to see your plans Max. Because I do. But I also have plans.”

          “And when were you going to tell me that?” She looks over to the alarm Clock.

          “In about five hours.” I found that odd. I chuckled.

          “Okay…”

          “So, what do you have in mind?” She asked me.

          “Well, there’s a waffle house that’s been on food shows all over the place. They claim to have the best pancakes. So I thought we go there and find out.”

          “You know that’s impossible, right?”

          “I do. Nothing beats Joyce’s pancakes. But I thought it be fun to see how close or not they are.” She smiled warmly.

          “Alright. When do they stop serving breakfast?”

          “I think it’s all day. I can check real quick?” I sit up on top of her as Chloe grabs her phone and hands it to me. “Yeah, they open all day.” Chloe gets up quickly as I fall backwards. She’s on top of me now smiling warmly.

          “Good. We’ll go after I have a little fun with you.” I blushed. I wasn’t expecting this this soon. I put my hand on her cheek then paused.

          “Okay. Just try not to ware me out too much. I don’t want to be tired today.”

          “I know.” She said then kissed me.

          Just as one would expect. Those pancakes can’t measure up to Joyce’s, but it was a nice try. We walked around the city just doing things Chloe enjoyed. I took a lot of photos of my favorite girl, and us. When two rolled around Chloe took me to this fancy ass restaurant.

Walking into this place, I felt uneasy.

          “What’s wrong?” She asked.

          “It’s nothing, just waiting for them to turn us away. To much riff raff.” Chloe chuckles.

          “Well thank you Max, but no. They’re expecting us.” Chloe and I were seated, but she wasn’t happy. She got up and moved her chair closer to mine, wrapping her arm around me and gave me a kiss on the cheek. I smiled warmly enjoying her affection. We were served drinks but… our waiter didn’t come back to take any orders and it’s been like 20 minutes.

          “I’m going to get the waiter.”

          “No, just wait Max.”

          “Chloe it’s been like 30 minutes.” I stood up and turned, seeing someone I haven’t seen since I was in high school. She was going through her bag.

          “Sorry I’m late! traffic.” She said. Oh hell… Chloe grabs me, sitting me down. I was hoping she was talking to someone else and we just so happened to be at the same place by chance. But when Chloe responded to her, I was surprised.

          “About time.” Wait... Was this her plans she spoke of? I started feeling annoyed by this. I knew this was odd to begin with. Instead of having a nice lunch in a fancy restaurant with my girlfriend she tricked me into this. She puts her bag to the side of the chair then sat down, taking a deep breath. She looks up to us, looking directly at me.

          “Hey Max! Long time no see.” She smirked.

          “Victoria…” I muttered, trying not to sound rude. She was just the same as I remembered... except for her hair. It’s still short but styled differently. And she carried a fancy designer camera bag with a big long gold chain. I shouldn’t be surprised by that at all... She chuckles then looks to Chloe.

          “I told you she still hates me.” She gets a big smile. I looked to Chloe with a puzzled look.

          “You two still talk?” I asked. I remembered the original timeline. We kept in touch with her, because she was the only other survivor from school we knew of… But now? Why would these two talk at all? Chloe looked to be thinking hard, and now I think she understands why I said that. She takes a deep breath.

          “Yeah. When we were separated and Vic…” What! Calling her by a nickname like their best friends or something?!

          “Vic?!” I shouted, with an annoyed look. Chloe paused for a moment giving that look of “I fucked up”, then she continued carefully.

          “Years ago. We ran into each other...” She paused again. “We got talking...” Victoria interrupted.

          “About you actually.”

          “Oh yeah?” I said still looking annoyed.

          “I was doing a series at the time. I wanted to include you in. But when she told me you two broken up… Well… She told me where to find you, but. We both knew you wouldn’t talk to me even if I did come and see you.” I nodded. She paused getting a regretful look. “Listen Max… Thank you.” She said as a waiter put her drink in front of her. “I know how shity I was to you back then… It was only because I was jealous of your talent. Your friendship with everyone.” She chuckles in disbelief. “You even got Taylor to like you, which by the way, she says hi.” Hearing that got me overwhelmed. I closed my eyes and shook my head. Chloe tried pulling me closer to her; to comfort me but I wasn’t having it. Victoria gave me a moment before continuing. “I wanted to say I’m sorry Max.” I looked to her. “I never hated you. I just envied you... And I hope… We can be friends? Or at least just talk to each other? One artist to another?” I gave that a thought. This was almost the same speech I gave to her at the vortex party that night, before Jefferson killed Chloe and kidnapped me. Oh Stars. Have we really come full circle now?

          “Stop it Max.”

          “Shut up Chloe.” I growled. Chloe looked down, like she knows she’s about to get yelled at. “How could you? Bringing me here knowing she was going to be here.”

          “Max, I...” Victoria started looking regretful again. I interrupted.

          “Victoria!...” I shook my head at her. She didn’t open her mouth which was surprising. I looked to Chloe and whispered in her ear.

          “You know what hell she put me through... And you have the nerve to do this to me... Today of all days?” Chloe looks up, inches away from my face because I didn’t back away.

          “I’m sorry.” She whispers.

          “It’s not her fault Max.” I looked to Victoria. “I saw Chloe’s post. I was in town. I thought it was my chance to try and apologize to you for my past mistakes.” I stared studying. And I can tell Victoria wasn’t lying.

          “To be honest Victoria… I went through a lot of bad shit in my life… And being tormented by you and getting death threats from that piece of shit Nathan and his father was high up on my list...” I pause taking a deep breath, to calm down.

          “I didn’t know that Max.” Victoria muttered.

          “I don’t believe you.” I shook my head. “He was your fucking male clone Victoria.”

          “Max, she didn’t know.” I looked to Chloe. She stared at me, and I understood what she was trying to say. This timeline Victoria really didn’t know... Oh fuck. I’m still angry at the original... But that doesn’t excuse this one. Not entirely. Alright...

          “I’m sorry Victoria.” She nods. “I know our past history was... But I don’t know if I’d ever accept you as a friend.” I sighed. “But talking is a start.” She gets a surprised look, so does Chloe.

          “Thank you. That means a lot to me for what it’s worth.” I nodded. She smiled warmly, which I’ve never seen before. But what she said next threw me off. “So how you been since you left school?” I left the school? Just, left? That doesn’t sound right. Even when Jefferson and Nathan were arrested in the one timeline when I won the contest, I didn’t leave the school... What the fuck happened?... Since I can’t answer that correctly, I have to be vague.

          “As one as you’d expect. Which I’m sure you know of. I traveled with my girlfriend for years. She broke up with me. I became a teacher of photography at Caledon University. I won a couple of photography awards before that. And now I’m here, with the same girlfriend who broke up with me.” I paused. Chloe pulled me closer to her, and kissed my shoulder. “What about you?” Victoria chuckles.

          “A lot Max Caulfield.”

          We all sat and drank, talked, which wasn’t that bad. Chloe and Victoria did most the talking. At this point we spent like three hours in this place, and I just about reached my limit of socializing. Victoria was getting a little buzzed and started talking about when Chloe and her met.

          “Actually Max. Chloe and I met lllooong before you did.” I raised my brow then looked to Chloe thinking otherwise. Chloe gives me a silent answer to my silent question, ‘Just let her. She doesn’t know.’ ‘Oookay.’

          “Really?”

          “Yeah, in Blackwell. She was dating Rachel. I thought Rachel lost her mind.” I laughed. “Didn’t become friends until we met up years later in Louisiana.”

          “Yeah Vic was in town doing a shoot.” When they said that, I remembered something. Crosstalk, in the original timeline.

          “Grand Isle...” I muttered.

          “Yeah! You been?” I paused.

          “No... I’ve heard of it.”

          “I was in this bar and this scumbag wouldn’t leave me alone. Chloe came right over and started to beat the shit out of this guy.” Chloe nods with a smile. “She let me get in a few kicks.” Victoria laughs. “Then we talked, drank, partied.” Then she paused, getting a seductive look, then smiled warmly, cheeks almost pink. “That was a crazy night huh.” She was staring right at Chloe. What the fuck is that? I looked to Chloe. Chloe has a blank look staring right back at her. As if they were having some kind of silent conversation, like we do all the time. A shimmer of guilt twinkled in her eyes for a second, then she changed the subject quickly and smirked.

          “Yeah, there was way too much drinking, just like now. Well Vic. I think it’s time Max and I go. She has plans for me.” I’m not sure if I want too anymore. Not after this last conversation.

          “It was good seeing you again Max. And keep in touch.”

          “You have my agent’s number if your parents want to show my work.”

          “Yes, see you guys.” Chloe waved bye and we left. I was quiet the whole way to the truck. My mind was trying to decipher the cryptics of that mystery I was accidentally privy too. When we get in, I just sat there.

          “Max?” I looked to Chloe. “Where did you want to go?”

          “Oh…” I looked down, giving it a hard thought. But I was too distracted by what just happened, and I didn’t want to go anywhere. I felt myself slowly getting angry. “Back to the hotel.”

          “Is that what you had planned?” I paused shaking my head.

          “No. But I need to lay down.” Chloe stares. I know she can see the annoyed look on my face.

          “Hey. I’m sorry about Victoria.” Hearing that I snapped at her, looking to her quickly.

          “Chloe I still don’t know what the fuck happened in the new timeline! Like why did we leave Arcadia Bay?! I would never do that!” Chloe didn’t say anything. “And the only reason I knew the both of you were in Louisiana at the same time is because of a crosstalk post I saw in the original timeline.” She looked down with a guilty look. Why? I took a deep breath and calmed down. “I’m sorry. Just… take me back to the hotel please.” She said nothing but took off.

          Since we got back, all I was doing is avoiding any physical touch with Chloe. We watched movies for the rest of the day, and when she tried touching me in anyway, I did what she did to me for a year after the storm. I would get up and do something or turn to check my phone or anything. For the first time in my life, I didn’t want her to touch me… and I think I figured out why. And I’m hoping it’s not true. It was 12 pass 20 (12:20) and that nagging thought wouldn’t go away.

          “Chloe…” She turned off the TV, then rolled over to me, not looking happy. “What did Victoria mean by that?” She sighed.

          “That’s why you been ignoring me.” She paused again not saying anything.

          “Chloe… Answer me!” She sits up looking towards the TV still not talking. I get this sinking feeling in my stomach, that starting to make me sick the more my theory is becoming true. I stood up and walked to the ending of the bed getting into her view. “You fucked her, didn’t you?” Chloe looked down. “DIDN’T YOU!” There was a pause and tears roll down my face. “Do you think I’m a complete fucking idiot. That I wouldn’t catch on Chloe? I know you!... How could you just sit there… How… you…” I stopped myself covering my mouth, crying, holding my stomach because I didn’t feel good. When I calm down. I took a deep breath. “You must have really hated me Chloe to fuck the likes of someone like her.”

          “I didn’t hate you Max.”

          “Then why did you Fuck her Chloe!”

          “I DIDN’T FUCK HER MAX!!” There’s a pause. Chloe shakes her head looking down.

          “But?...”

          “I almost did.” She muttered.

          “Almost Chloe? There is, no, almost. And you know that better than anyone!” Chloe looks down looking guilty again.

          “I know Max… What I mean by almost. Is that I stopped before it got to heavy.” We paused. That’s, not like her to do that.

          “Why?” She sighs, hesitating.

          “We were drinking. She was more fucked up then I was. One thing led to another, then she made a comment that made me stop immediately.”

          “What was it?”

          “Max I really don’t want to.”

          “What was it, Chloe?!” Chloe took a moment then shook her head. “Chloe!”

          “I don’t think she knew what she was saying, but I know most of it was true.”

          “Stop deflecting. Now tell me.”

          “She said… Now I know how Max feels.” I was stunned hearing that… That’s fucking… Ew.

          “Oh god.”

          “I stopped after that Max… I knew what she wanted from me at that point and I couldn’t. It freaked me out so fucking badly… That girl really wants to be you… And she hates that she can’t. She won’t admit to it but she does.” I walked over and sat on the bed facing away from Chloe. “Max, I’m sorry.” She whimpered.

          “I don’t care… if we weren’t together Chloe.” I cleared my nose, and started crying again. “Fucking Victoria, is like an ultimate betrayal.” Chloe starts breathing heavily, then comes closer to me. But she knew not to touch me.

          “Max, please? Please, I’m so sorry.” I don’t know what to do… I was so burnt from all of this… I laid down and got under the blankets without looking at her. I felt Chloe do the same. I can feel her staring at me, crying. I closed my eyes and tried to get some sleep. And as I was about to do that, Chloe whispers.

          “Max?”

          “Mmm?”

          “You still love me?” I waited a minute before answering.

          “As much as I don’t want to Chloe… I’ll always love you.” I heard her sigh a relieve sigh. Then I went to sleep.

Learning Pt 2

Second Chances

April 23, 2025        (Wednesday)

Ever since we had that fight, and I found out Chloe was with Victoria. I’ve been struggling to move forward, again. I know I still love her. That much is carved in my soul. But it. still. hurts…

–⁂Memory⁂–

March 13th 2025 (Monday)

          We were on the road again. We haven’t really talked much since that day. I don’t know where Chloe is heading nor do I care. It was night that’s all I know. Chloe just pulled over and parked. I guess she wants to sleep. I get out of the truck, and instinctually, I started helping put the bed together in the back. When we were done, we get in. I just got under the blankets and turned away from Chloe. I closed my eyes, and a few minutes later. She pulled me close to her, spooning with me. She sighs sounding like she’s going to sleep now. In this moment I didn’t know what to do. This was the first time in two days she touched me. She probably wasn’t paying attention. I don’t blame her… we always cuddled together in the truck when we slept… even back then to keep warm. Laying here, with her arm around my waist… her hand touching my bare skin. An intrusive thought faded into my mind. It was an image of Chloe. She was touching Victoria in a sexual way. Thinking of this I started feeling sick. Oh Stars.

          “Chloe don’t touch me.” I muttered. I think I’m going to be sick. I held my mouth for a moment. “Chloe don’t touch me!” I get up quickly and opened the hatch door. I puked my guts out.

          “Max?” Once I got a hold of myself, I gave it a minute before answering her.

          “Chloe… Don’t touch me.” I turned, she was crying.

          “I’m sorry.” She whimpered and laid down on the right side of the truck, facing towards the wall of the bed. I crawled back over and laid down. I can hear her crying. Before I closed my eyes, I muttered.

          “I am too.”

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What she did… was such a betrayal. But I hate that I understand it. She wasn’t expecting to be with me again… So why care at all, right? We weren’t together at the time… But my mind keeps imagining it… -Cries- Seeing them, Chloe touching her, and enjoying it… It makes me want to vomit. -Takes a deep breath-

Every time she tried touching me now. I wound up throwing up. I know it hurts her… it hurt me too… but, she’s patient. She holds her breath, tiptoeing around me because she’s scared to mess up again. I am scared too though... I don’t know if we can push pass this… And yet, I’m terrified of losing her again… So I’ll keep trying.

– Turns page –

May 31, 2025        (Saturday)

Yesterday something incredible happened. Before we get to that, let me set the background. Chloe took us to Canada again. Beautiful. Somewhere we planned to go.

We camped outside of the park. Things between us was still rocky, but, stable. Not the kind of emotions I wanted to be here for.

–⁂Memory⁂–

          I just woke up. And the first thing I do like every morning, because I’ve been afraid she’ll leave me again, is look over to see if she’s still with me. And she wasn’t. I started to freak out. Last time this happened she left me in a hotel by myself. When I saw a letter at the foot of the truck’s bed, I started crying hard. This is exactly how she did it before. With a shaking hand I grabbed the letter and started reading it. It wasn’t a letter of “I’m leaving you”, which was instant relief. I dried my face, and read more. Chloe is setting me up to go hiking? Without her… What the hell for?

P.S

          Make sure to bring your camera and tripod. You’re going to want to take pictures here. So take your time.

I love you Max.

                                                                        Come find me.

Chloe. XOXO

I sighed. After getting scared out of my mind, I wasn’t in the mood to take pictures… Or play this game. Fine… I grabbed my backpack out of my duffle bag and started packing for this… I don’t know how long hike. As I opened the bed door, the view explodes into this gorgeous scene of the park. I took a deep breath of the clean air, and smiled. Stepping outside onto Canadian soil. I forgot how good this felt… Chloe was right. I’m going to take pictures.

Part of the letter’s instructions, was I am to text Chloe when I meet a mile marker. I took my sweet ass time making it through this place. I took so many pictures that my agent is going to have a field day.

When I made my way to the top slowly because this hill sucks, the view opened to the landscape below. But I didn’t see any of that wonder... All I saw, was a cosmically gorgeous woman standing tall at the cliff. She had her long thick blonde green hair tied back into a ponytail. She was wearing a beautiful long black dress that portrayed her perfect body. Around her kissable neck was her signature necklace with the three bullets. I froze. I don’t know if it’s from shock. This woman... Her light is shining brighter than any stars in the whole universe. When I could move again, I went up to her. And the closer I got, the more stunning she looked.

          “Hey Max.” She said softly. I stared for a moment, then made a comment that made her smile and laugh... Oh Stars.

          “I am very underdressed.” I said. “Chloe…”

          “Max.” She interrupted my thought. “I set all of this up. In the hopes to show you my heart… In the only way I know how.” Chloe is being very vulnerable... She knows this always got my attention.

          “Oh Chloe.” She takes my hands. Hers are freezing which worries me.

          “I know my past hurt you. I never wanted it to. You have to know that, right?” I nodded. “I love you so much Max... That I’ll spend every day, and the rest of forever making that up to you.” She looked down with a sad look; a tear runs down her face. “That’s if you still want me after today.”  She whispered. I let go of her hands and lift her chin. More tears ran down her soft cheeks. I sighed then took off my jacket. I wrapped it around her, which made her cry harder.

          “Out of all the pictures I’ve taken in my life Chloe. None of them ever truly reflected what I was looking for… Until this one.” I lined up my shot. Chloe holds onto the jacket, then held out her left hand trying to stop me from taking a picture.

          “Max don’t, I’m a mess.” I put her hand down.

          “And that’s what I love Chloe.” I went up to her, wiping away her tears. “The untouched mess that you are.” She stares at me with a blush, then I lined up my shot again, and took it. “Stars... I love you, Chloe. And I see you… every bit of you.” I bring her down to me, and kissed her. When I pulled away slowly, I held her cheek. She smiled and laughed while still crying happy tears.

          “I love you Max.” I smiled.

          “Come on. You’re freezing. We need to get off this mountain.” She nods.

          “Okay.” I took her hand and we start walking down in silents.

          “Don’t think for a second that I’m not taking pictures of you like this.” I said out of nowhere. She laughed.

          “I love you Max.”

          “I love you to Chloe.” She pecks my cheek.

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August 29, 2025        (Friday)

It’s tour season! And I’m excited! Chloe and I are getting back with the girls, (Drugstore Makeup.) And we’re going to thrash our way across America, with her fist and my camera!

Yesterday we cut her hair short again, and dyed it green. I swear, the girl can shave her head if she wanted and she’d still look good. But that’s my Chloe.

The other day she somehow convinced me to start gauging my ears, and I told her I’m not going crazy with it. It would look really bad if I went to big.

– Turn the page and writes –

I…

Chloe opens the bed of the truck. I looked up to her surprised.

          “Max come on.” I put my book to the side and moved.

          “Coming Chloe.” I smiled and stood next to her, as she closed the door. She kissed me then we got in the front and took off.

-Partners in Time-

September 16, 2025        (Thursday)

Being on a full tour with the woman I love has been a blast. It is so lively then I expected.

Tomorrow Chloe tells me we’re going to one of her favorite bars. The very one she left her tour last year that brought her back to me.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

          Walking into this place It felt different than the rest. It’s hard to describe. But I liked it. As I was setting up my tripod everybody, and I mean everybody came up to me and chatted a little, which I got nothing done because of it. Gees, this place was different, friendlier. Even the old English stage manager liked me. Needing a break, I went back stage and up to the green room door. Hmm? I thought it be funny to tease my girlfriend. I banged on the door.

          “They’re unloading the gear now man, chill!” Chloe said from behind the door. I yelled back to her with the most awful British accent.

          “Oy! They’re better be, love. Or it’s right mess for you!” I laughed. And walked in. “Did I fool you? Be honest.” I said and gave her a kiss. Chloe paused.

          “Honestly, if I didn’t know you since we were little kids… still no.” We both laughed.

          “Yeah that was bad.” I nodded.

          “How’s your shoot going?” I think about it and I get excited.

          “This is my favorite spot yet. The people. The stories. The life! You can practically feel it radiating from the walls.”

          “You sure that’s not just the spilled beer and puke stains?” Chloe asked.

          “It’s part of it! How did I not come up with a dive bar series before.” Chloe smiled while holding me. “Thank you, Chloe.”

          “For?”

          “I never thanked you, ever, for such an adventure. Being able to see this world with you... It’s absolutely amazing. Fuller then where I thought my life would take me, if you hadn’t been in it.” I said as I held her cheek. She places her own on mine.

          “Well… I wouldn’t have a life if it wasn’t for you Star. With you being here with me… makes everything magical.” I blushed paused then kissed her. Mmm, I love her lips, her tongue. I was getting to caught up in the moment, when I remembered why I came back here.

          “Mmm!” I pulled away. “Before the band gets here I need to get one of you alone.” I grabbed my camera that I had hanging on a shoulder strap.

          “Sure.” Chloe stands in front of the mirror. I take the picture, and when I was done, she comes back over. I show her and she shrugs with a nod. I looked up at the time then looked back to her.

          “Ready to head in? I still need to set up my tripod for the show... You know everyone wouldn’t stop talking to me here. It’s nuts.” She chuckles.

          “Yeah, can you give me two minutes?” I nodded.

          “Of course.” I kissed her cheek, then left the room to go do that.

When I got back, the stage manager was standing at my tripod.

          “You shouldn’t leave your equipment unguarded deary.” He smiled.

          “Thank you. I usually don’t I swear.” I chuckled then angled it right. When I was done, I looked to him. “Hey you think you can.”

          “I can. Go do what you need to do.” I smiled and touched his arm.

          “Thank you.” I went back to the green room. Chloe opens the door just as I was about to. She stared at me, and her face was whiter than a ghost.

          “Chloe?” I get a worried look then walked in, and closed the door. Chloe went back in the room and grabs something off the coffee table.

          “I have to give you something.” She hands me my selfie before I left for my New York trip last year… before the fire… I sighed.

          “Moses…”

          “He had it all along. Sent it to me with a letter. Said I should decide what to do, give it to you or… destroy it.” I turned seeing Chloe sitting on the couch. I walk over to her and she starts crying. Which is making my heart hurt.

          “I see.” I put that picture down and sat on the coffee table.

          “I know what this photo means. It’s not just a chance to try again. It’s an obligation. I…” She laughed. “I can’t be mad about it. It’s what I love you for.”

          “Chloe…” Chloe grabs my hand. She starts shaking in fear… Oh my Chloe.

          “Just… promise me you’ll always find me. Maybe not me, but some version of me. Promise me she gets to be with you if I don’t.”

          “Stop.” I get up and sat next to her. I bring her over to me and hug her, and kissed her cheek. “Shh. My Chloe bear… Oh my Chloe.”

          “Promise me Max… Please?” I held her until she calmed down. Then I pulled her away, trying to dry her wet face. But the tears wouldn’t stop coming.

          “No.” I shook my head. “I’m not going to make that promise Chloe. I don’t have to.”

          “But…”

          “I know you and Moses think I’m going to go back. But I’m not. You understand?” I dry her face again. “Chloe I changed... What Safi said to me... What you said to me in your break up letter. I want to move forward. Not back. Now if you died that would have been different. And you know that.” She smiled. “We saved everyone that day, Chloe. And above all you saved me.” I caressed her cheek. “Buildings will get rebuilt. But what can’t be rebuilt, is us. And what we have now. I will never leave you… ever.” She nods. “I love you. You’re my whole world Chloe. And I’m looking forward to living in the future with you. This Chloe.” I poked her chest. “She’s the only one I want. The only, one.” Chloe hugs me and cries again, until she calms down and let me go. Then I grab the photo and hand it to her. “Throw it away. I don’t need it.” I smiled. She looks to me as more tears roll down her face.

          “Really?” I nodded.

          “I love you. How many times am I going to have to say it until you get it, Chloe. Now throw it away.” Chloe takes out her lighter, starts it up, then looks at me. I nodded.

          “Burn it.” I took Chloe’s hand and helped her put the flame up to the photo. We watched It burn until nothing was left. Good. She hugged me tightly taking a deep breath. When she pulled away, she looked at me with a determined but relieve look, putting her hand on my cheek.

          “I just want you to know, that I’m not going to take any of this for granted anymore. You. Us. This timeline. I’m going to fight for it, no matter what.”

          “Together.” She nods.

          “Forever.” I kissed her. I can feel the tension relax in her shoulders. She backs away then stands offering her hand. I take it. “Hmm… I’ve been meaning to tell you, Max. The band’s only got two more gigs then they’re on hiatus. So I was wondering where did we want to go next? We could head back east and check on your friends. Or we can go west.” We paused. “It might be time for us to see what happened to Arcadia Bay, together…” I just stared. I can see change in her eyes. “Or maybe that’s a terrible idea.” Shit, I should have answered her. I pulled her to me, held her against me.

          “I don’t want to think about the future. Or the past. I just want to be here with you now. Capturing every beautiful moment, with the woman I love.” Chloe puts her hand on my cheek and smiled.

          “Deal.” Then she leads me out of the green room and into the bar.

Chapter 8

The Beginning

– Texts –

Chloe, Safi

Are we gonna get you to a show this tour or what?

Safi

DUDE. I know. It’s been a busy month, okay?

Safi

I never thought I’d describe a “Modern Poetry Intensive” as

kicking my ass, but here we are.

That’s what you get for trying to put your cosmic half-death Nightmare journey into words and shit. I’m sticking to Headbanging.

Booking a show in Boise next month. I’ll send you the date when we have it. Your ass BETTER be there.

Safi

Seriously? You re-routed your whole tour just for little ol’ me?

Ok, I heard that in your southern Belle voice and I did NOT like it.

Safi

Seriously, thank you. I can’t wait to see you both.

Don’t mention it. And don’t tell Max! I want to blow her mind when you walk in.

October 7, 2025        (Tuesday)

Just as I thought things were going beautifully. The Universe decides to punish me again. AND I DIDN’T DO ANYTHING THIS TIME!

Two weeks after we left Chloe’s favorite bar. She had been distancing herself from me… and… I’m scared. I don’t know what I did to merit this...

This is how it started before too. I tried bringing it up to her but she would just tell me, ‘Max, we’re fine. This isn’t like last time. I swear it. I’ve just been busy that’s all.’ I want to believe her… But I’m so, so scared. I don’t know if I can handle not being with her again.

Our next stop is in Idaho. I’m going to put something together, just so I can get her to talk to me.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

          From the hotel we checked in, to the concert hall. Chloe and I hadn’t said a word to each other. During the show, I didn’t see her at all either. She’s normally up and front or just barely visible back stage. At the ending of the show, when I was packing up my things she texted me. She told me to go back to the Hotel without her, and to meet her on the roof? I was surprised she was able to get permission to be up there. This was so odd of her to do. Out of character. But like a good, but scared girlfriend I did what she asked, and got an Uber back. This also gave me the opportunity to do my thing before she gets there.

I set up a small table and a speaker, outside on this roof. When I was done, I sat down, and my mind wander to the dark places it’s been at. I started thinking about this shit… what life would be like without Chloe again. I was crying until I heard the door open. I quickly dry my face and cleared my throat.

          “Max, I…”

          “Chloe before you say anything that might end us please!?… Please dear Stars just listen.” I paused, shaking, tears are rolling down my face. I took a deep breath to try and calm myself. “There is so much I want to say, that I can’t articulate at the moment. But this song will, even though you might hate it, Chloe. But just please listen to it.” Chloe nodded with a sad soft look. I took another deep breath then played the song and sang the first verse, with my head held high.

(Jamie Bower – Waiting For Your Love)

At the beginning of the second verse, I added my own comment.

And I can’t swallow every feeling… not like you, Chloe.” Chloe smiled.

“And I can’t wish away the scars

And there’s no love if there’s no healing

But I miss you now beneath the Idaho stars!

And if I have to wait a moment

Let the ache fall from my heart.” I used my power on the photo I took at Chloe’s bar. Starting the light show. It was Chloe saying. ‘I just want you to know, that I’m not going to take any of this for granted anymore. You. us. This timeline. I’m going to fight for it, no matter what.’ After that I started singing the third and final verse.

I am hopelessly devoted to your love!” At the end, my voice said in the memory of the photo. ‘Together.’ ‘Forever.’ Chloe’s voice said.

When the song was done, and I had stop using my powers, I leaned over the table breathing heavily. I gave myself a second to catch my breath. Then my nose started bleeding cuz I haven’t used that one in a while. I stood up wiping it off. “Shit.” I muttered then I looked to Chloe. She was staring at me, not moving an inch for a second. I didn’t understand this. I failed… I looked down, and I slowly started crying again until Chloe lifted my chin forcing me to look at her. Then she wiped away my tears. I held her hand to my face lovingly.

          “I hear you Max. But I told you before that nothing was wrong.”

          “Then why are you pushing me away?” Chloe chuckles, takes her hand, and pulls something out of her jacket pocket.

          “This is the reason.” She put a box in my hand. When I opened it, it was a silver ring. “I just didn’t know how to tell you.” I turned to her still staring at the ring. “Will you marry me?” I looked to her as she said that. Did I just hear that right?

          “What?”

          “Marry me Max.” It was like time froze on its own. Hearing those words, all I can say is.

          “What?” I started crying again.

          “Marry me.” When my brain finally allowed me to hear those words, I smiled, and started crying happy tears. I took the ring out of the box and put it on. I looked to her smiling ear to ear.

          “Yes… Yes. I am always yours.” I pulled her down to me and kissed her. She held me, then pulled me in closer. And when I pull slowly away from the kiss, I hugged her and whispered in her ear. “I love you, Chloe.”

          “I love you too Max… My wife.” I pulled away from the hug and laughed because I was so happy.

          “Am I interrupting?” I hear a familiar voice. I looked over seeing Safi and Ivy... Ivy is with her...

          “That was some show.” Ivy muttered. I smiled so widely. This was the best day ever… I ran over to them and gave her a huge hug.

          “Safi… Oh Safi.”

          “Hey Max.”

          “How are you here?” I pulled away.

          “Hi Ivy.” She nods.

          “Well we were in the neighborhood. We took in a show.” Now I realized.

          “That’s why I didn’t see Chloe anywhere.” I turned and whined. “Chloe!” She walked up to us.

          “Wanted it to be a surprise.”

          “Yeah, and you know how scared I was?” Chloe smirked and shrugged. I sighed shaking my head. I couldn’t be mad at her right now… Not today. I smirked then looked to them.

          “Oh… look.” I showed Safi and Ivy Chloe’s ring.

          “Now would ya look at that find thing.” Ivy commented.

          “I know right?” Safi widen her eyes and stared for a moment then looks to Chloe.

          “I hope that doesn’t change your rowdy, tough image.” I laughed.

          “It has already but… I don’t care.” I hugged Chloe as she held me. I just can’t believe Chloe is going to be my wife… Stars this is the best. And I never imagine such a perfect thing.

The Beginning Pt 2

Back To Where It Started

October 11, 2025        (Saturday)

I was finally able to get some time in, to write about what happened. Today was the biggest day of my life, again. And I didn’t realize it was the anniversary of the storm that didn’t happen… I think Chloe did this on purpose. -Chuckles-

Chloe and I got married at noon today… Safi and Ivy were our witnesses… But Holy shit… I still can’t believe Chloe and I really belong to each other now.

-Chuckle happily- If our kid selves can see us now. -Laughs-… I’m Sorry, I’m still reeling on the fact that I’m married to the coolest person I have ever known. Most beautiful and she’s mine.

          The name I took, because beforehand we talked in length about it is, Max Caulfield Price. Has a good ring to it, I thought. My parents never gave me a middle name, and Chloe wouldn’t let me be a Price if I didn’t add my old last name. I guess she still wants to say it… ‘Your Max fucking Caulfield, Time Lord.’ Because saying Max Price time lord wasn’t good enough for her. It’s silly, but made her happy… and I wanted to be a Price so badly. So this was her compromise. And I don’t mind it… not one bit.

– Turn the page and writes –

October 20, 2025        (Monday)

Chloe and I just had our honey moon in Arizona for a couple of days. It was relaxing, bright and beautiful like her. Now we’re back on the road heading towards Wyoming.

My agent Hazel called me when Chloe and I was still on vacation. She called to tell me she was setting up something in New York in a couple of months. My wife wasn’t too happy to hear that. Last time we were there together, was for a show. But, she got into a bar fight because some guy wouldn’t leave me alone. That’s how she got that scar on her upper lip. That was a crazy night… But anyway… I told Hazel that I just got married, but she still insisted I go to this one because some big names were going to be there… lots of publicity. So that means big opportunities for me again. Since the fire at Caledon. The idea of getting out there once more… -Laughs- Was far from my mind. But Chloe told me to do it… So, that’s early next year. Which I’m not worried because I have so much pictures of this pass year… Oooo I’m definitely sending her some photos of Chloe… Okay now I’m excited.

October 28, 2025        (Tuesday)

Since we left Yellowstone. Chloe had been throwing serious hints at me of wanting to go back to Arcadia Bay. I brushed it off for the most part. But then she just told me flat out.

–⁂Memory⁂–

          “Max I want to go home.” I paused thinking of the idea of that.

          “Babe, I hear you. But.”

          “Max…” She paused then took a deep breath. “I want to take you home to go see my Mom.”

          “Joyce?”

          “Yeah… I want to tell her in person I got married… I want to show her my wife that I’m proud of.” Oh shit… It was only a matter of time she would want this. She sits down next to me with her head down. I lifted her chin to look at me.

          “Alright.” I whispered. She hugs me tightly with a smile, then whispered.

          “Thank you.”

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-Sighs...- The last time I remember seeing Joyce alive, was after Jefferson almost killed me. -I took a deep breath trying to get that thought out of my head-

For our sakes, and for the sakes of our future together. I can’t allow myself to relate my dark past, to someone I loved back then like Joyce. So now we’re heading back home tomorrow… Not going to lie. I’m not looking forward to it.

–––––––––– })|({ ––––––––––

          We were driving down the road. I just got a water out of the tiny cooler and handed it to Chloe. When I got mine, I opened it then took a sip. When I looked down and out the front window I saw a sign. Welcome to Oregon. I felt my body tense, and the awkward feeling in the truck was noticeable. I can see Chloe peeking over to me, checking up on me.

As the minutes kept dragging on, the image of the sign wouldn’t leave my mind. The memories of my past were bubbling up to the surface slowly. I couldn’t take it anymore. I leaned on the door and closed my eyes. Slowly, I took a nap.

          When I woke up, I was feeling better. Hours later however, the landscape was becoming too familiar. Arcadia Bay was ever getting closer, and my anxiety was at an all-time high again. I started doing something that I haven’t done in years. Holding my neck, rubbing and scratching at myself until I bled. My PTSD tick. When I saw the sign for Arcadia Bay, I started having a panic attack. I turned to Chloe.

          “Stop the truck…”

          “What?”

          “Stop the truck!” I shouted and Chloe pulled over near the sign. I got out and walked in front of it, then bent over to catch my breath.

          “Max!” Chloe yells chasing after me. “Max you okay?!” She scooped me up in her arms. I stood up shaking my head, then started scratching my neck really hard. She stopped my tick and held me.

          “It’s okay. Just breathe.” I closed my eyes, letting her rub my back. ‘She’s alive, we’re safe, she’s alive, we’re safe.’ Chanting that mantra, like I use to to calm me. And it still worked. I took a deep breath, then turned away from Chloe. I looked around at the scene, and all I could think of was the last time I've been on this road. I itched my neck for a moment as Chloe walked up to me.

          “I’m sorry... It’s just the last time I was here. I just escaped death and I destroyed the… ” Chloe kissed me stopping me from finishing my thought...

          “I know, Max. But it’s okay. We’re here together. And it’s different this time. Thanks to you… Thank you for bringing my mom back.” I didn’t know how to respond to that. I was the one who killed everyone for her. “Don’t start doing that.”

          “Doing what?”

          “Start that loathing yourself. I know you Max.” I smiled. She knew exactly what I was thinking. I blushed a little.

          “You know me too well.” She shrugged with a smile.

          “Are you okay?” I walked up to her feeling better and nodded.

          “Just promise me. When we are here, don’t leave my side. Because if I have to rewind, I’m taking you with me.”

          “Duh, that was a part of our vows.”

          “I know, but its more so being here. I saw you die three times here. Understand?” Chloe starts leading me back to the truck.

          “I understand Max. I will. But go get your camera I want a picture of us in front of the sign.”

          “Okay.” I pulled out my tripod and set up my camera. Then I held Chloe around her waist and took the picture. Then she kissed me. I took that photo too. After that we went off again.

          During the trip between the photo at the sign, and driving into town I took a nap again. Chloe woke me up when we were parked.

          “Max.” She spoke softly. I grunted then sat up.

          “I’m sorry.” She smiled.

          “I figured we get something to eat before we go see my mom.” When she said that I looked outside. My eyes lit up and I smiled. I got out and stared. She took me to The Two Whales. I can’t believe it was still here. Chloe comes up to me.

          “It’s really here.”

          “Yep.” She bumps my arm. I look down seeing my camera. I grabbed it.

          “Last time I was here Chloe. The whole town was in chaos. That storm was about a mile off shore. I could see it. There was dead Whales all over the place, people. There was an RV and a boat embedded in the diner.”

          “You never told me about that.”

          “There’s a lot of things I haven’t told you about that time. And I should have.” I turned to her. “But I will if you like to know.” She smiled.

          “Take your pictures. Then meet me inside.” I nodded as she walked away.

          “Chloe!” She turns and shrugs. “I love you.” She smirked, then started walking towards the building.

          “Love you too! Now take your pictures Hippy.” She shouted and disappeared into The Two Whales. I chuckled then did that.

          Inside, the place looked and smelt the same. Except news clippings of me on the window. I guess Joyce kept track of my career better than I do... damn... But mine wasn’t the only one up there. Warren, Victoria, and Kate. I took a picture of all the articles. Then I walked in, I smiled looking around. So much nostalgia. I looked over to Chloe. She was sitting in the same booth when she tested my powers for the first time. I went over to her.

          “Excuse me, Miss?” She looked up to me.

          “Yeah?”

          “Is that seat taken?” She smiled.

          “Yeah, by a dumb hippy that didn’t come in yet.” I laughed then kissed her and sat down next to her.

          “You keep calling me Hippy Chloe and I’ll start dressing like one.”

          “Yyeeah, no.”

          “Then stop, my beautiful punk rock girl.” I kissed her cheek.

          “Alright fine… You’re lucky I like you.”

          “You love me.”

          “Can’t argue with that.”

          “Hey Chloe.” The waiter said as they came up to us. “Just getting in town?”

          “Yeah.”

          Being at The Two Whales was such a blast. Warren’s old doodles were still there, so I took a picture. I took so many pictures over everything. After having lunch. Chloe took us back home. When we pulled up, the house was painted green. I laughed slowly. Chloe looks over to me.

          “What?”

          “The house… Is green… Did you paint the house green because of your hair.”

          “Yeah. Dad never finished the blue. And I got tired of my mom living in a trashy looking house.”

          “It looks good. But you missed a spot though.”

          “No, I just ran out of paint.” I laughed. “You ready to see mom?” I calmed down and thought about those words.

          “You know the last time I seen Joyce, was at that diner. She was patching Frank up.”

          “Now that’s a name I haven’t heard in a long time.”

          “Yeah.” I took a deep breath and paused. “Okay, I’m ready.” We both get out of the truck and made our way in.

          “Mom!” Chloe yelled.

          “Chloe?! I’m in the kitchen!” Hearing Joyce’s voice I nearly lost it. Chloe grabs my hand, and gives me a minute before pulling me towards the kitchen. At the door way. Chloe hugs her mom. Joyce being Joyce didn’t expect that, then looks to her daughter like there was something wrong. “What did you do this time Chloe.”

          “Well… huh.” She smiled then chuckled. “Mom, I like you to meet my wife.” Joyce widens her eyes surprised.

          “Married?” Chloe nods then waves over to me. Joyce looks over, paused, then slowly smiled. “Figures.” I laughed and started tearing up. “Hello Max.” I walked over to her.

          “Can I have a hug?” Joyce nods and opens her arms. I hugged her. Something I thought I’d never do again. “I’m so glad you’re here Joyce.”

          “Aww. I’m always here honey.” I pulled away from her. Chloe has a tear rolling down her face. “So you finally tied the knot huh? Whose name did you take?” I couldn’t stop smiling.

          “Max Caulfield Price.” Joyce’s smile widened.

          “I would say welcome to the family. But you never left.” I laughed.

          “I missed you, Joyce.”

          “I missed you too Max. But you did catch me at a bad time. I’m about to head to work. Tomorrow, early start. We have a lot to talk over.”

          “You got it.” She just stares for a moment with a smile. “Max Price.” She shakes her head, then taps my shoulder, and walks out of the house. I looked to Chloe. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her this happy before. Seeing the look on her face made this trip all worth it.

          “Come on.” She said, and we went upstairs to her room. Walking in I widen my eyes in surprise.

          “Oh my Stars… it hasn’t changed.”

          “Yeah… Bed is new though.”

          “Chloe I don’t know if you remember but, the second floor of this house was practically rubble.” I closed my eyes… “This is overwhelming.” Chloe lifted up my chin.

          “I know… I remember. But there was something I always wanted to do.”

          “What?” Chloe kissed me, then picked me up, and put me down on the bed. She then took off her jacket.

The Beginning Pt 3

Closure

          Chloe and I made love all day… in her room… Where she dared me to kiss her for the first time… Where I fell in love with her and she didn’t have a clue. I was so exhausted from her pleasurest torture, and fell asleep.

–––⁂––––– })|({ –––––⁂–––

          Chloe got up earlier then everyone, which is unusual. She took a shower, changed her clothes and headed down to the kitchen to make coffee. After that she took her bean juice and sat down at the table and read newspapers. Somewhere between her second cup her mother came down. Joyce was a little surprised to even see her up.

          “Well this is a rare sight.” Joyce said coming up to the table with some coffee. Chloe looks up seeing her mother.

          “Hey mom.” She said sounding calm. This was the most relaxed that Joyce has ever seen her. She sits down on the other side of the table, putting her coffee down.

          “Where is your bride?”

          “Max? She’s still sleeping.”

          “I’m surprised she’s not up before you.” Chloe smirked.

          “That’s my fault.”

          “What did you?...” Joyce gave it a moment. “Never mind…” Chloe chuckles hearing her mother got it. There was a pause. “Married, huh?” Chloe nods. “Last time I heard anything about you and Max, you split up.” Chloe put the paper down. She knew what her mother was asking. But she had to be careful.

          “Something happened mom. Let’s just leave it at that… And I needed Max’s help. She was the only one that could… And when I found her. Some massive shit was going down that she needed my help for. One thing led to another, and we realized we were still in love with each other. So here we are.” Chloe smiled. Joyce just stared with a smile on her face.

          “It’s rare to see you smile so much. But Max always had that effect on you.” Chloe still smiling. “But… despite what you did to her; it’s time my daughter in law wakes up. We all have things to do.” Chloe watches her mother get up and walked out of the room.

–––⁂––––– })|({ –––––⁂–––

          “Max honey, wake up!” I took a deep breath then turned and opened my eyes. Joyce was standing at the door staring at my naked ass. I gasp widening my eyes, sat up and covered myself with anything I could grab... which was Chloe’s jacket and mostly the blankets.

          “Joyce!” I can feel the embarrassment in my cheeks as I stared at her in disbelief.

          “It’s alright. Just get dressed and meet me in the kitchen.” I nodded, and Joyce left the room. Oh, my Stars… Joyce just saw me… aww… this is going to be awkward… man… I uncovered myself and stood up, then nearly fell. I stood there for a moment thinking… ‘Chloe really did a number on me.’ I took a few slow steps to get myself to move. Then I got dressed, did my morning chores, and slowly made my way to the table. Chloe sees me walking cautiously, then laughs. I leaned on the table, and get in Chloe’s face looking annoyed.

          “It’s not funny, Chloe. Your mom just walked in on me naked. At least you could have done is cover me when you got up.” Chloe laughed harder. “Chloe!”

          “Pay her no mind Max.” I turned to Joyce. “No need to feel embarrassed. Now come here.” Her telling me that, still didn’t make it any better. I took a deep breath, and walked over to her.

          “I’m sorry Joyce. It just seems disrespectful.” She smiled.

          “Max you’re a married woman. It’s not my place to interfere in your marital bed.”

          “Yeah but…”

          “Enough talk about that... I wanted you to wake up early is because now that you’re my daughter in law. I wanted to teach you how to make my pancakes. The real ones.” Chloe speaks up and walks over with a surprised look on her face.

          “You got to be joking.” Joyce looks to her daughter with a smirk.

          “I told you when you were a kid I would teach you one day, when you got married. I didn’t think I’d ever see the day, but I was proven wrong.” I smiled, then I stuck my tongue out at Chloe.

          “Max, can you get the powder for me.” Joyce said then pointed to a box. Chloe gets it and hands it to her mom. “Now always make sure it’s this brand. Anything else won’t taste the same.” I nodded.

          As Joyce was teaching me and Chloe. I didn’t realize just how detailed her pancake recipe was. But that’s why she makes the best… that, and I will have to write this down later. When breakfast was over, Chloe and I hung out with Joyce for an hour. Then Chloe asked me to sing.

          “Seriously?” I asked her.

          “I hear you when you think I don’t. Now sing.” I smirked.

          “Are you sure? What I might sing might be super embarrassing and gay.”

          “Just do it hippy.” I laughed then put on my headphones. I went through my phone and found something that I know Chloe would just cringe to. I turned to her.

          “Chloe Elizabeth Price. This one is for you. And how I feel about you every day.” I started the song then sang.

(Calum Scott – Flaws)

          After I sang the song. Chloe looked stunned, with a blush. Joyce was nearly in tears. I laughed. I thought Chloe would have cringed by now but…

          “Was it to much?” I chuckled. Chloe smirked shaking her head.

          “No. I love you Max.”

          “Aww, Chloe.” I blushed. She gives me a quick peck.

After rocking Chloe's face off. We all talked about my adventures when I wasn’t with Chloe, my career. Then after that, Chloe wanted to take me somewhere.

          She took me to the old junkyard and handed me my camera. Walking through this was like a blast from the past. The memories from this place.

          “Remember this?” She pointed to the car she shot. I took a picture then laughed.

          “Yeah… You shot yourself.”

          “I don’t remember that.”

          “It’s a good thing though. Lucky your wife had rewind.”

          “Point.”

          I spent a lot of time here just taking photo slowly. Chloe was surprisingly patient. Then we made it to Chloe’s old hide out that her and Rachel use to hang out in. I believed she called it back then, “Home away from hell.”

          “Hey Max.” I looked to her. “When I came out to this place years ago. I saw this and it kinda pissed me off.” She points to it. I chuckled. It was the “Chloe was here, Rachel was here’ sign on the wall.

          “I’m sorry Chloe. I was a little jealous back then… Rachel got to hang with the coolest person I’ve ever known… And me… the dorkiest nerd… I-I couldn’t compete with her.” Chloe slowly smiled.

          “Max Caulfield. I’d never see the day you get jealous over Rachel.”

          “It’s Price, Chloe. And how could I not of. She was so beautiful… More so than me at the time.” Chloe walks over to me, smiled, and kissed me.

          “Max, you are always beautiful. Even back then.” I smiled softly from her affection.

          “That’s where I think you’re lying. But…” I kissed her lips. “You brought me here to take pictures. So I’m going to wander, okay?” Chloe nods with a soft smirk. I walked out of the fort and looked around.

I slowly made my way through, and all the way to where we found Rachel’s body. I wanted to take a pic but… I don’t think that was right, and I don’t think Chloe would appreciate it. So I didn’t, but something just happen now… I saw my doe… after all these years she appeared to me now. She wanted me to follow her to the edge of the junkyard. And when I did, she stopped, and turned into Rachel. She was see through, like a ghost. I widen my eyes in surprise.

          “Rachel.” She smiled at me then spoke.

          “Thank you.” Somehow, I understood what she meant. I smiled back.

          “Always Rachel.” She looked passed me and smiled again. She didn’t speak this time, but when I looked back, Chloe was standing there, looking like she was going to cry.

          “Rachel.” She muttered.

          “You can see her?” Chloe nodded. I looked back and Rachel waved goodbye.

          “Rachel!” Chloe yelled and ran to her as she faded. I grabbed her stopping her.

          “Chloe, she’s gone!”

          “Rachel!”

          “Chloe!” I forced her to me, and hugged her. “She’s gone Chloe. She was finally able to move on. I’m sorry.” Chloe calmed down and looked to me. I wiped away her tears.

          “What did she mean Max?”

          “By thank you?”

          “Yeah.”

          “It’s complicated. But I’ll tell you the short version for now… You remember those times where I kept seeing a spirit doe all over the place?”

          “Yeah.”

          “Well that doe was always guiding me. It left, when you left, and now I understand why. That was Rachel. She guided me every step to save you. She was watching over you this whole time Chloe… And she thanked me, for taking care of you. Keeping you safe. And now she feels okay to move on.” Chloe starts crying again.

          “Oh Rachel…” She muttered and hugged me tighter.

          After the junkyard I had to drive us back home. Just like the last time Chloe saw Rachel. But this time… she wasn’t crying. She didn’t even look upset. She just stared blankly. When we got home, we just hung out in her room for the rest of the day. She did complain how she wanted a cigarette really badly... She did just quit for good a couple of weeks ago.

          It was late now, around 11 o-clock. I was getting ready for bed. I had just put on my PJ’s, then sat on the bed, and unbuttoning my shirt. When I got it off, I laid down, and got in the blankets.

          “I really want a cigarette.” Chloe muttered again. I had enough of hearing that and reached into my camera bag. I grabbed a hand full of lollipops and put them on Chloe’s chest. Chloe took a random one and popped it in her mouth. She sighed a relieve sigh. I closed my eyes, and as I was slipping into sleep Chloe lays on top of me in the blankets, hugging me. I woke up a little and rubbed her hair. She took another sigh of relief. Few minutes of just playing with her hair she started kissing my stomach then moved down. I jumped when she touched me, and stopped her.

          “Chloe, no.” She looked back up to me.

          “Why?”

          “Why? You just fucked me with everything in that box, yesterday. And I’m exhausted still. I need some time to heal Chloe bear.” Chloe paused then smirked.

          “Alright.”

          “But that aside. Are you alright, Chloe? Your unusually calm.” Chloe takes a deep breath then lays beside me, facing me.

          “Yeah. It’s weird. I don’t feel angry anymore. Which I’m always angry. I…” She shakes her head with a smile. “I’m okay. I can’t explain that any better.” She chuckles. “I’m okay, Max.” I rolled over kissed her cheek and cuddled up to her.

          “I’m happy.” She chuckled and pulled me closer. “Let’s get some sleep.” She kissed the top of my head then held me.

The Beginning Pt 4

The Rest Of Their Life

          By the time Chloe and I got up this morning, Joyce was already out of the house. We got ready for the day, and Chloe took us to The Two Wales. We had breakfast, talked to Joyce, then I took a picture of Chloe and her mom together. From there, we walked around the town. Chloe told me to take pictures of everything. So I did. We somehow ended up at Blackwell. Standing in front of it was a lot, I took a deep breath feeling anxiety. Both good and bad memories floated to the surface. It was too overwhelming.

          “Chloe, I don’t want to be here anymore.”

          “Alright Max. Come on.” She grabbed my hand, and like she always does, she whisks me away, saving me.

          When we got back to the truck, Chloe took me to our old fort in the woods. It was old, falling apart. But the memories of this place were purely good. I took so many pictures of every angle. After that it was back to Chloe’s place. But on the way home, I saw an old falling apart “For sale” sign out on the side of the road. It bugged me so much I turned to Chloe and asked.

          “What was that sign?” She looked to me for a moment.

          “That is the old Prescott estate. After what happen to Nathan, Sean moved. He tried to sell it but nobody wanted to buy it. Ten guesses why…”

          “Turn around.” Chloe stopped the truck and smiled, looking at me.

          “I’m thinking what you’re thinking right?” I smiled. Chloe turns the truck around and headed back. Driving up to the house was a bit eerie, quiet. The atmosphere around this huge house, when we got out of the truck, it was like… as if someone or thing was holding their breath.

          “Fucking creepy as shit.” Chloe added as she took my hand. As we looked for a way in, there was so much hate graffiti spray painted all over the side of this mansion… and some dicks. I took some pics, then Chloe found a way in through one of the windows. Chloe went in first then helped me up. Inside was even worse than out. I never heard this kind of silence before. Chloe was already looking around with her phone’s flashlight on.

          “Just look at all this shit. He just left it here… You imagine living in a place like this.”

          “You never been here before.” Chloe laughs.

          “No. Nathan and I were not exactly friends Max. He did kill me once.”

          “I know. But I do feel bad for him.” Chloe comes up to me looking a little annoyed by that.

          “Max he killed me.”

          “I know Chloe… But that’s not the reason why.” She paused.

          “And?”

          “Before… When Jefferson…” I sighed. “I’m trying Chloe.” Chloe rubbed my arm to calm me. “When David saved me. I was on my way to The Two Wales for a photo I needed from Warren. Nathan left a message on my phone.” Chloe looked surprised by that. “Before Jefferson killed him. He told me he was sorry, and that he didn’t want to hurt anyone. And that Jefferson was after him, and coming for me. To hurt me… I know it doesn’t excuse what he did… but I guess that was his last attempt to try and make things right… even Nathan didn’t deserve that fate… What would have happen to me… I’m sorry Chloe.” Chloe paused like she was thinking about that, then nodded.

          “Your right.” She grabbed my hand. “Let’s see what else we can find in this hellhole.” I smiled.

          After exploring, we left the Prescott house. It left me wondering about Chloe’s and I’s future. What it could be... Or where we would end up.

The last stop for the day, Chloe took me too was the lighthouse. For this I grabbed my tripod. I piggy backed Chloe all the way to the top.

          “Last time I did this, wasn’t this easy.”

          “That’s because you have more muscles now, then back then.” I kissed her cheek. She smiled then put me down. I walked up to the ledge just as I did back then. I took a deep breath seeing the town, and remembered watching it destroyed. “The last time we were here, the storm was raging. And I told you, I was in love with you. And you begged me to sacrifice you for the town…” Chloe comes up beside me looking at me. “I have always done everything you asked me to. Without complaint. Even when it almost killed me… I still do.” I chuckled then paused. “But that was the one and only command I couldn’t do.” I looked to her. “And I would do it again, Chloe… Everything, Jefferson, Nathan... I would stop at nothing just to keep you safe, and alive. Even if it wasn’t with me at the time… Even if it meant I had to die in your place. I will never give you up.” Chloe smiled then grabbed my wrist, pulling me towards the bench. I followed her then set up my tripod behind it. Then sat down next to Chloe… My wife. She put her arm around me and I cuddled up to her. We watched the world from up here, in silence. This was peaceful, being here with the woman I love more than the world… or even myself. And today… When the sun was at the golden hour. Just like last time before it snowed. I spoke up.

          “Chloe.” She looked to me. “I never thanked you for this trip home.”

          “Your welcome Max.” She leaned her head against mine lovingly.

          “I was thinking… Arcadia Bay was our home.” I looked to Chloe. “Did you want to settle here? Build a home together.” Chloe looked out to the sea and sighed, looking like she’s thinking about that. Then she looked to me again.

          “Is that what you want?”

          “Not if you don’t like the idea.”

          “So it’s on me.” I chuckled.

          “Always… You have my heart, Chloe. And it will go where you go. No matter what.” Chloe stares at me with a soft smile.

          “It’s hard to imagine. We been on the road so long.” I nodded.

          “I understand. Back at Caledon, having my own house felt good. I didn’t have to worry about where I was going to be sleeping… or eating. It was comfortable. Until you came back… and that’s where I truly wanted to be. By your side. But to have a home, with my home?” I sighed imagining it. “I long for the idea Chloe.”

          “Then let’s give it a shot.” I looked to her again.

          “Really?”

          “Yeah… What’s the worse that can happen. We lose the house.” Chloe laughs. “I’ll give you anything you want Max. I owe you that much, and so much more.”

          “Oh Chloe.” She slowly comes in for a kiss. I’m hitting the button to my camera, taking a shit ton of photos, then she kissed me. “I love you.”

          “I love you Max.”

The End

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