REVAMPING | Faulted Desires: A Culpa Mía/My Fault fanfic

38 - Noah

As I step into the cafe where Jenna and I had agreed to meet, I spot her seated at the central table. Making my way toward her, she leans in for a hug, which I graciously accept. I needed her comfort, particularly after the recent work-related ordeal I've experienced. I've been absent from work for a few days, having claimed to be suffering from Veridian Fever (fictional fever)-– an illness resulting in extreme fatigue and high fever. It's a flimsy excuse, but I couldn't bear being alone after work especially, too afraid of what might happen. Admittedly, I probably look like an unreliable employee, having called in sick on only my second day at a new job. But after this week, I'll return to work, provided I don't receive any more threatening messages.

My mamá has inquired about my absence, and I merely reply, 'No reason,' which naturally arouses suspicion. I can't bring myself to tell her about that ominous message. However, I've confided in Jenna, which is why we're meeting today. I've also shared this with Betty, and she advised me to confide in someone I trust. So, here I am.

"Hello, babe," Jenna greets me. I can only muster a smile in response. We both take our seats, and she asks how I've been doing.

"I've been... okay, I guess. As okay as you can be when you receive a threatening message like that one."

"Aw, Noah, it could just be a prank."

"I don't know; it felt too real. Besides, who else would know it's my first day at the new job, apart from Nick, my mamá, and William? I highly doubt they're the ones sending me threatening messages."

"That's a valid point. What are you going to do next week?" she inquires.

I shrug and reply, "Just going to go into work and seeing if anything happens."

"Alright, just be careful, okay? If you need me to pick you up or anything after your shift, just let me know. I'm always here for you."

"Yeah, I know that, Jenna. Thanks. I love you," I respond with a smile, the first bit of joy I've felt since that joyless message a few days ago.

"Anyways, let's talk about something else," I suggest to Jenna, not wanting to dwell on that anonymous note any longer.

"Sure," she agrees. "Let me get you a drink," she offers.

I nod and reply, "Caramel Cappuccino, please and thank you."

"Of course," Jenna responds as she heads to the counter to place the order.

Once Jenna returns, she mentions that there's a party at one of her friend's houses over the weekend, which is just three days away.

"I know you're probably not in a party mood, but this might be good for you, you know. Let loose and forget your worries for a night."

I nod my head. To be honest, there's nothing I want more right now than to "let loose." There are so many things I need to stop thinking about – Nick, that ominous note, my unexplained absence from work, and the unsettling feeling of returning to a job where I'm unsure if someone is lurking around every dark corner, waiting to strike. Most people might not be as concerned by an unverified threatening note, but something inside me says this is deadly serious. They say to trust your gut, and that's exactly what I'm doing.

Lost in my thoughts, I reply to Jenna, "That sounds perfect, actually."

Jenna smiles. "By the way, Nick will be there, with Lion."

"Yeah, I know." As expected.

Then there's an awkward silence, and Jenna wisely changes the subject, knowing I don't want to talk about Nick. I know that sooner or later, I'll have to talk about him. You can't avoid it forever, even though it's been two and a half months. You never truly get over someone you liked so much, who meant so much to you, without feeling anything – admiration, pain, love.