Hidden Identities // H.S

Chapter 20

TW towards end of chapter!!

     We spent the last day in Michigan in complete awkwardness. As much as she tried to act normal, we all knew it was about Harry. She tried asking me if I knew where he was but I told her no. As much as I'd love for them to make up, it wasn't my place to tell her where he was when he didn't want to see her. I think he spent the day exploring around. I don't know. I left him alone and only texted him twice to make sure he was alive.

Flora and I had another great conversation in the morning. It was only us two awake and we talked while drinking coffee. Her real name isn't even Flora. It's Florence but she prefers that everyone calls her Flora. I think they're both cute names.

We picked up Harry from the motel and flew back to New York. Everyone just went back to normal. None of us act like we just came back from a trip. We're all just avoiding the whole incident that happened.

It's Tuesday evening and I'm checking my emails to make sure I didn't miss anything new from Angela. I must admit, that small break from work was very much needed. Not that I do any work in New York. I've used my gun once. But I got a break from going to the same building and same office every day. I also got a glimpse of peace and quiet in Michigan. Flora lived in a more secluded area. For once I didn't hear any cars or sirens or trains. I didn't hear any city noise in Michigan.

Ever since I got back in New York I've been craving one thing. Another blue slurpee with gummy worms. It was the first time I had a blue slurpee in probably a year. Sipping on one brought a bit of nostalgia back to me.

Now Harry knows my backstory for my love of blue slurpees. He also thinks I have a sister named Avery. I almost ratted myself out that day. Avery was the closest name that came to mind that sounded like a smooth coverup.

I feel just like the same Avalon I was seven months ago. The only difference is the new name. Speaking of my old self, I should call my sister. I haven't spoken to either one of them since I got my new 'job'. I could never tell them that I work as a bodyguard. I'd never hear the end of it from Amaya. Instead, I tell them I work at Macy's.

I should do it on my lunch break. The thought of them again is making me miss them. It's only been less than a year but I already feel like I haven't seen them in decades. I'm missing out on my niece's life and my little sister's.

I start ruffling through my bag, looking for my phone. My lunch break is about to start anyways.

"What's the rush?" Harry asks, his voice is nearly a mumble.

"I just uh need some cash for my lunch break." I push a strand of hair away from my eyes, digging around for my phone.

I finally find my phone, sighing in instant relief. I shove it into my pocket and close my bag, ignoring the mess I made inside.

"I'm taking my lunch break now." I nearly run out of the office.

As I rush through the floor and into the elevator I quickly dial my sister's number. I bring the phone to my ear, my heart beating loudly as the line rings. The elevator bell rings and I race walk out of there, heading right for the doors leading me outside.

Once I reach the fresh air is when the line picks up.

"Avalon?"

"Amaya." I sigh in relief again with a big smile on my face.

"Why are you calling so early? I thought we weren't supposed to call for another week?" Her voice sounds different. It's not as perky and welcome as it used to sound.