Our world

7

In memory of Richard Ramirez <3
February 9th, 1960 - June 7th, 2013

Contains a brief mention of violence and drugs, other than that, the chapter is short, sweet, and full of confessions.

                    

Chapter 7

Just an hour or two after the movie finishes, Richard suggests a drive through Hollywood. Luna hesitates at first, considering the dress code Richard wants, but she finds herself agreeing. "Okay, sure."

In her mind, she knows he could never truly understand how she felt; he would never put himself in her shoes. She was just a girl longing for love from a heartless guy, one whose mixed signals left her confused. It was hard to tell whether he genuinely enjoyed spending time with her or if he thought she was just boring.

These thoughts drove her to madness, especially since she had been distancing herself from her friends, Gabriella and Debbie were slowly slipping away from her life. In all her years of existence, she never imagined that love would consume her so completely, transforming her into someone she didn't recognize.

Richard was the kind of guy who could forget about you in an instant. Tonight, she promised herself she would be cautious with her words.

They ride in the car, the bumps in the road making it feel rocky, while music blares from the radio. The night air is perfect, not too windy or humid, but ideal for a date night.

When they arrive at the high mountains of Los Angeles, they exit the car and settle onto a blanket. Luna contemplates whether she should bring up an intense conversation, but remembering her promise, she decides to go for it.

"Okay, I'm going to get straight to the point. Please tell me why you disappear. Why do you leave for days and just pop back up?" Her own confidence surprises her.

Richard turns his head, sighing as he lights up a blunt. Luna takes it from his hands, shaking her head. "Just put it down for one second and answer me. That's all I want to know."

"Just afraid. I've already explained that I'm no good for you."

"You need to be specific. Why do you keep doubting yourself? Please help me understand. What are you afraid of?"

"Love. Happiness. I'm scared that someday I might accidentally hurt you."

"Do you think you'll ever be in love or happy again?" She searches his eyes for answers.

He takes a deep breath, rethinking her question. "I just want you to know that I do love you. Even if we barely know each other or get along. I really am in love with you. Why do you think you'll hurt me someday?"

"I'm afraid to hurt you because," He pauses, collecting his thoughts. "I just don't want to. I wouldn't want to hurt someone I love. It's been a long time since I've felt this way. I'll mess it up; I know I will." He takes another drag from the blunt, but before he can blow out the smoke, Luna smacks his hand, causing it to fly from his fingers. In an instant, their lips connect.

Though, this kiss is different, soft, tender, and romantic. The warm breeze gently tugs at Luna's curls as she cradles his face while he holds her waist.

Richard pulls back, a question on his lips. "Do you want to watch the view for a bit?"

"Sure. But there are a couple of questions I'd like to ask you. Are you okay with that?"

"I'm cool with that."

"Okay, let me grab some wine. I'll be back."

He watches as she stands, adjusting her short dress before walking to the trunk. His heart suddenly drops.

Guns, bloody clothes, gloves, drugs; she can't know any of that is stashed in his trunk, waiting for him to grab them as he prepares to strike again.

"Oh shit, I just remembered."

Luna turns back to him. "What?"

"It's not in the trunk. I forgot the wine. My bad."

She smiles, her face brightening. "Oh, it's okay. Don't worry about it. Maybe next time!"

"Look, Luna. You're a gorgeous girl. I really do like you, but I'm no good for you. We aren't meant to be together."

Is he telling the truth, or is he just afraid she'll discover the truth about him? That someday she might find all his secrets, or worse, see him with blood on his clothes?

"Richard, stop saying that. You keep doubting yourself, just please stop. I love you so much, and I'll stick by you even if it means one day we both get in trouble."

He frowns, confusion crossing his features. "What do you mean?"

"Richard." She inhales deeply, hesitating before continuing. "I know about the things you've done. And I don't care. As long as I'm with you, I don't give a shit about anything or anyone else."

His heart races, a mix of relief and fear washing over him. He can't let her know what he thinks she knows. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"I know about your past relationships. That doesn't affect me. I believe that you're better than that." She leans in, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek.

Before the conversation can escalate, he shifts the topic. "Alright, let's get out of here. I'll get you something to eat, yeah?"

"I would love that."

A/N: Sorry if this was a short chapter. I surely had to get something out for his death date.