I Care {Darkiplier}

(Chapter 32)

The conversation never picked up much traction from then on. You were both too stuck in your thoughts, reflecting on everything that had gone down these past 24 hours, in the old, withering mansion. The music from the playlist flowed from the car speakers at a low hum, a way to fill the silence during the time the car drove. It was something you silently appreciated. It was a clever way to not have to worry about what to say, and the music was a way to fill the silence. Considering well...what the last topic was about, it was also a way to not have to worry about clarifying certain things. Not to mention, it was a nice background noise to have as well.

You turn, glancing out the passenger window as your thoughts continue to wander, usually circling back to the events that took place for over an hour or so, much to your slight dismay.

What occurred back there...It was quite nerve-wracking, now that you have had more time to really think about it. How the book managed to fall on its own, was strange enough, but is more concerning with some of the other factors you have grown to learn about.

The more you reflected on it, the more you pondered...

Was taking the book the best idea?

Logically, considering what you are dealing with, a dark force that, decided to knock it down, it probably would be a good idea to leave it. However, your curiosity, and will to find answers was far stronger than that. You wanted to find out more about the manor...And well, if it was the best way...So be it.

Even if you still had those second thoughts of hesitancy, there was no way you could turn around now, at least without raising suspicion of course.
You shift, glancing down at the bag that held the book. The item's additional weight made it feel heavy against you, a subtle pressure, pressing into your thighs. It was a reminder of what you did.

...

Again. in the time you were leaving the study, it felt...correct to do so...

Surely it still was?

The more you mulled over it, the more you became conflicted. You shift, forcing your gaze up and away from the bag and out the passenger window, as you gently bite the inside of your cheek.

You wish it didn't feel this complicated...

You continue to focus your eyes on the nature that passes by. You both weren't out of the woods yet. You were both still on the road, your first destination not being home, but a small diner. It seemed good enough, based on some of the reviews you had read, helping be the guide, as your friend focused on driving. You suppose It was better than nothing. With this newfound thought, you focused on it, wanting to end the constant back and forth inside your head.

It was much easier to think about than the book you had in your carry-on.

Eventually, you both do make it to the aforementioned destination. The car slows, backing up with care, into a free space near the front of the diner. Your friend turns, glancing away from the back window, and over to you, as they shift the gear into park, and turn off the engine.

They offer a small smile, grinning as they finally speak over the silence, "Well, looks like the manor didn't curse us." They joke a bit, though they do seem slightly relieved.
You raise a brow, a small hint of a smile forming despite yourself. "Yeah...I wouldn't jinx it though." You try to keep your tone light, despite how weighted the words really were, as you move, unbuckling and moving to open your own door.

Your friend hums a bit in response, "I would say it would make life more interesting...But I think we've had our fill." They make a callback to the ouija board situation, making you shake your head in agreement.