world we created, paul lahote

Chapter 11

"Have you heard from Bella?" Charlie inquired as Lucia trudged down the stairs later that morning. The older man stood watch of the landline, worry cast like a shadow across his face. "Anything at all?"

Lucia shook her head which caused the man to sigh softly and sit down heavily on one of the kitchen chairs. Lucia offered him a reassuring smile when he met her eyes again. "I'm sure she's fine Charlie. I know she's a bit accident-prone but she'll be okay."

"I hope you're right."

Ever since Bella had left leaving a short, cryptic note behind, Charlie had been on edge. He barely slept since and had been pacing the house like a caged animal, constantly asking Lucia if she'd heard from Bella. As much as Lucia wanted to comfort Charlie, she knew better than to lie about how Bella kept him in mind before running off. She knew better. Bella became tunnel-visioned when it came in regards to that Edgar guy she goes on about. It's as if that was all she could care about which was concerning. No matter how much Charlie disapproved, Bella Swan couldn't care less.

But, Lucia knew Bella, while reckless, had survived far worse incidents than any normal teen should -- from what the Barone girl heard of anyway. Lucia's money was on her cousin showing up within a few days, just as she always did -- battered but alive. And she had an inkling it would be with Edgar in tow.

"Well, I've got to head out. I don't know when I be back," Charlie told her rising from his seat and shrugging on his police jacket. "Do you have anything you're doing today? I don't want you wandering off too."

Lucia grinned, a warmth filling her chest at Charlie's concern for her. If only Bella could see what exactly she was missing then she would never let it go. "I have a hair appointment in a bit so I'll be heading out too. And don't worry, Uncle Charlie, I won't be going anywhere."

"Good." Charlie walked passed her, patting her head on the way. The two made their way out of the house -- locking up as they went -- before making their way to their respective cars and driving off.

Lucia eased her truck onto the winding roads leading out of Forks, the familiar landscape blurring past her as she picked up speed. The towering evergreens that dominated the horizon danced in her peripheral, their lush, verdant boughs swaying in the gentle breeze. Sunlight shone through the thick clouds that perpetually decorated the sky, dappling the asphalt in a pale light.

As Lucia navigated the twisting turns, the minutes ticked by faster than she anticipated. The hour-long drive from Forks to Port Angeles seemed shorter as she grew lost in her own thoughts and the woodland surrounding her. Soon, the dense forest gave way to the sprawling cityscape of Port Angeles. Lucia's eyes scanned the sleek, modern buildings, searching for Shear Haven. She'd heard from Jessica that they were a bit on the expensive side, but they did a great job on hair, so she took her word for it--even if her wallet would be crying afterwards.

Pulling into a parking spot nestled between two other cars, Lucia quickly grabbed her purse and hurried towards the entrance. The interior of the salon exuded an air of understated elegance, with clean lines, neutral tones, and the subtle scent of expensive shampoos and styling products.

"Welcome to Shear Haven; how can I assist you today?" the receptionist inquired, her voice laced with a practised friendliness as Lucia approached the front desk. She quickly explained her appointment, and the receptionist efficiently directed her to a styling station at the back of the salon.

Reaching her designated station, Lucia was greeted by a radiant blonde woman who welcomed her with a dazzling smile. The stylist's eyes sparkled with genuine enthusiasm as she gestured for Lucia to take a seat.

Settling into the comfortable, cushioned chair, Lucia felt a sense of anticipation as the stylist began to gently comb through her hair, assessing the condition and discussing Lucia's desired style. She settled on her go-to cut, ridding of all the dead ends and curtain bangs to frame her soft features. The stylist chatted pleasantly as she snipped, and Lucia found herself relaxing under the calming repetition.