The Mute Reporter

37- Six Years Earlier

Samuel Winters

I cover my mouth with my hand, trying to make zero noise on my end.

They talk for a little while outside my door, and I just hear muffled words I can't make out.

When the voices disappear, it's only a few seconds later where someone knocks on my door.

For some reason, I was compelled to open it.

Mateo was on the other side, and my eyes immediately searched for Jensen.

"He left. It's just me. Can I come in?"

My eyes go back to Mateo, and he still looks calm. It's unnerving almost.

"Please?"

I finally give in, and let him pass me into my hotel room.

Making sure the door is closed behind us, I turn to him and give him an expectant look. The easiest way for me to talk to him was probably through notes, and I was to tired to try that right now.

"I'm not going to tell anyone. I just have a few questions." He sits down in a chair, and gestures for me to sit on my bed.

I frown, but do so anyways.

Who does he think he is to meddle in my business?

"Does he let you in his house?" He tilts his head, and I furrow my eyebrows in confusion.

He just sighs. "Yes or no? Does he let you in his house?"

I hesitate before nodding, wondering where he's going with this.

Mateo goes into thought, and only continues when I tilt my head in even more confusion.

"He rarely lets people in. And usually they stay less than an hour."

Jensen never kicked me out of his house. I slept over before. What Mateo is telling me doesn't make sense?

Nervously, I clutch at the silver chain on my neck, moving the diamond around with my fingers as I try to process what Mateo just said.

"Oh my god." He whispers, and I look back at him, snapping out of my thoughts.

He's staring at the necklace.

Shit, shit shit shit!

I just made things worse. I'm literally so stupid.

I panic, standing up and pointing at my door.

Get out. Please get out.

Actually, disregard the please. Just get the fuck out. This morning is too much.

Mateo stands, and I walk to my door, opening it up and gesturing out to the hall.

Leave. Just leave.

He looks at me for a moment, like he's contemplating saying something.

Luckily he doesn't, and he walks out of my hotel room.

Shit, that was a dumb move.

Jensen didn't knock on my door that day. Even though I'm grateful he didn't, a part of me wishes he did.

I couldn't hold onto pathetic tears after I shut the door on Mateo and Jensen. I cried on and off all day.

It was late when I fell asleep, and when I did, I wish I would've stayed awake.

———

**TW**

The last time it happened was the worst time. The first time was a close second though.