When we first met (A Zatima Story)

Creepin

Four Weeks Later

Despite weeks passing, nobody had seen or heard from Ju. Mr. Wilson's people were still searching, but every lead came up empty. The uncertainty was taking a toll on everyone, especially Fatima.

The fear that had once kept her locked inside her house had started showing itself in a different way.

Instead of hiding at home, she was going out almost every night.

Parties.

Alcohol.

Pills.

Anything that could help her forget.

Anything that could quiet her mind.

Unfortunately, it was becoming a dangerous habit.

⸻

Andi's House

Andi: T, you need to stop.

Fatima: (drunk) Andi... I'm f-fine.

Andi: No, you're not. You went from being too scared to leave your house to partying every chance you get.

Fatima: I'm just having fun.

Andi: Fun? Fatima, this isn't fun anymore.

Fatima: You're overreacting.

Andi: Am I? Because every time something stressful happens, you do this. Drink. Pop pills. Pretend everything's okay.

Fatima: That's not true.

Andi: Really? Because the last three times you overdosed, your parents had to send you to rehab.

Fatima: (looking away) That was different.

Andi: No, it wasn't. You're doing the exact same thing now.

Fatima: I can stop whenever I want.

Andi: You said that last time too.

Fatima: Andi, please don't tell my parents.

Andi: T—

Fatima: Please.

Andi: Fine. But I'm serious. This has to stop.

Fatima: It will.

Andi knew she was lying.

As soon as Fatima looked away, Andi pulled out her phone and called Zac.

⸻

A few minutes later, Zac arrived.

The moment he walked through the door, he could tell something was wrong.

Zac: Hey, baby.

Fatima: Hey, Zaaac.

Zac: You okay?

Fatima: Did Andi call you? She's doing too much.

Zac: Come on, T. Let's get you home.

Immediately, Fatima shook her head.

Fatima: No.

Zac: Baby—

Fatima: No! My parents are gonna send me back to rehab.

Zac: That's not what I'm worried about right now.

Fatima: Then take me to your house.

Zac: T—

Fatima: Please, Zac.

Her voice cracked.

For a moment, Zac saw past the alcohol.