Always, Arlo [Published]

Chapter 29

Truth

Angela and I sat in Arlos apartment for a while just talking. She told me she usually comes over to Arlo's penthouse to just relax and unfocus on the messy parts of her life. It's different now that he isn't even here.

In a way it feels too isolated and lonely, despite Angela and I accompanying each other. I can tell we both feel the same, he's really the missing puzzle piece to this factor. When you're with Arlo it's hard to even feel anything other than comfort and security.

I can tell he gave his sister that same feeling of safety. Thats probably why she was coming to wallow in his apartment despite his absence. It was still something instead of nothing.

"I think he'll come back soon, hopefully. At least for his business and for you." Angela speaks after a eerie moment of silence. My eyes dart onto hers immediately as her sentences spark in my heart.

"For me?"

"I haven't seen my brother look at anyone the way he looks at you. Trust me, i've had my suspicions when he suddenly came to the apartment and was gleaming about a new model recruit he managed to get," She talks as she unravels the blanket that Arlo always keeps on his couch and drapes it over herself.

"He had this specific glow in his eyes, It was different. Then I met you at the company for the first time and those subtle looks he gave you were with noticeable admiration. I think I finally got my confirmation at his party when he wanted you to accompany him to blow out his candles." She clarifies as a smile forms on her lips.

I stare at her for a moment and as much as I'd probably try to deny it at this very moment, I can't. I like Arlo and it's more than just a 'friend' liking, I have been denying my own feelings in fear but I do like him and a lot. So if what Angela's saying is right, i'm not scared about it anymore. If anything, I can't wait for him to come back.

"I thank you for that Val. Growing up in our circumstance and Arlo taking over as a parental role in my life while also trying to help our mother has taken a huge toll on him. After you I just started to have hope that for once he can feel happiness without it being stripped from him." She tells me as her eyes glisten with tears she's trying to blink away. I reach over and hold her hand in mine, trying to comfort this little saint and as she expresses her concerns for her brother.

"You deserve that type of happiness too." I tell her quietly almost in a whisper so my voice doesn't strain with emotion. She gives me a small smile as she nods, "I do, he made sure to give that to me despite everything going on around us. Seeing him have his turn will be more than enough for me."

...

Nov 24th 2022

It was now less than a week before my sister's wedding. I went to the mall with the girls so they can help me go shopping for a dress. I mostly invited them because they're keeping my mind focused. I've been too stuck on Arlo's disappearance and worrying about him that I haven't been focusing on this upcoming event that i've been dreading for a while.