Falling Into Oblivion

Chapter Six

MARCH 2ND

THE LAST thing I want to do is go back to the cabin where it all began. There are too many painful memories and too many close calls. Why would we go back?

The case is still open for investigation and the police are convinced it was a homicide. It was soon revealed to us that Erin Mills family are very wealthy and powerful people. As soon as the media got a hold of that information they snatched it up and ran with it, following and broadcasting everything. And of course, with all that being said, they have been in full cooperation, making damn sure to appear on every news cast.

When I imagine their curling screams and cries as they first heard of the horrendous outcome of their only daughter, it stings as much as it is frightening, to hear them speak to their deceased daughter looking beyond the cameras and monitors, like their staring right into my soul, as if somehow they know I am listening.

"Erin, baby, we love you. We miss you and we won't stop until we find out who did this to you." They often repeated and stuttered through the sobs, but one appearance stuck out more than the others and the news made certain to play it on repeat during all hours of the day.

Her father known as Richard Mills, a cutthroat businessman, owning the largest corporation in the nearest city from Brownridge was reportedly worth billions. However, by week three, on that said appearance, he no longer showed signs of despair or guilt. No, he was past all that. Behind his eyes was hatred. He was beyond enraged. 

At that point, he ripped the microphone out from the microphone stand during a barely audible yet, honest moment from his wife. She was begging for someone; anyone to come forward with any information they may have on the death of their daughter and at that very minute he blurted out. "Mark my words, when I find you and catch you - you will pay for this." He gritted through his teeth and threw a fit. Everyone gasped and yelped out of surprise but very quickly recovered as the police restrained him. No doubt, he had every right to react this way, any parent would. And because of that, the roaring of the crowd cheered him on, all wanting justice for Erin.

So with this kind of bomb Arsen just dropped on me. It is fermenting an unsettling feeling in the pit of stomach.

"What do you mean to the cabin? We can't go back there." I exclaim, unable to control a mirthless laugh.

"I know." I can hear him breathing heavily out of desperation. "It sounds crazy, but it's been awhile since everything's happened and I really think it'll be alright. Enough time has passed." His voice, smooth as velvet.

"I don't know Arsen. Has it been long enough?" It's barely been over two months.

"Cassie, they think there's a strong chance it's someone she knew. An ex-boyfriend maybe. We really need this time together. Alone. I know things haven't been the same lately and I'll admit it. I'll sait. Its my own fault." I can tell by his tone over the phone that he's trying. He's trying to make an effort and he's right, we can use this time alone together. But I'm not sure going back to the cabin is the best choice. "You don't need to give me an answer right now but please think about it. I miss you Cass."

I can't believe I'm even considering this.

"I miss you too Arsen." He's really making it hard for me to say no. The way he's talking is like the sweet, caring Arsen I've always known. A lot has changed since the night at the cabin. We've come so far and it's nice to know that the Arsen I've known for so long hasn't completely disappeared on me. There's still a glimpse of hope. Besides it's only for a couple of days. They won't trace the crime back to us at the cabin. We covered our tracks.

I draw in a sharp breath and exhale out in the phone. "I don't need to think about it. I'll go with you." And just like that, I am putty in his hands.