Smile

Chapter 2: Fate

Years ago, I accepted the fate that I may never have a normal life. But I guess life wasn't always so bad. I mean, I have a family and a stable job. My boss is a perv, but the job pays well. My dad always said "Sometimes you need to roll the dice". I never understood what he meant by that, and maybe I never will. But what I do understand is sometimes life has plans for you. And all you need to do...is take a leap of fate.

After an 8 hour day of work, Phoenix arrives home. She walked into her 2 bedroom apartment. Her living room is small, with a TV, 1 coffee table, and a single couch. Her kitchen is surrounded with all kinds of cooking material and a round table in the center. Living in isolation has become a part of Phoenix. It goes all the way back to her childhood, but that's a story for another time. Her family always tells her living alone like this isn't healthy. But she likes living alone, because no one gets hurt. Phoenix takes a shower and then changes into her pajamas. She rested her head on her pillow and slowly drifted off her sleep.

2 days later

A loud knock on the door woke up Phoenix. She jumped out of bed frightened by the knock. She gathered herself and went to open the door.

"Michael."

"Phoenix. How you been?"

"Normal. What do you want?"

"Now, is that how you greet your older brother?"

"I'm sorry. Can I make you a cup of tea?"

"No thanks. I just...wanted to see if you're ok."

"I'm fine."

"Dad wanted to know if you're still coming over for our Sunday lunch."

"I'm coming. Can you give me a few minutes to get dressed?"

"Of course."

Phoenix left to get ready. Every Sunday she goes out for lunch with her father and brothers. She sometimes feels bad she can't see them everyday, but she tries to make up for it by calling whenever she can. Phoenix and Michael soon reached the restaurant.

"Phoenix."

"Hi, Dad. I'm sorry I haven't called recently."

"Oh, no worries, sweetheart. I know work can be busy. But you're here now. And that's what matters."

Her father was the sweetest and kindest person ever. He treated her with respect and showered her with love. He was always patient with her...condition. Her father and her brothers. The oldest, Michael. 30 years old, married, has a 2 year old daughter and works for the police department. 27 year old Cameron. An elementary school teacher. Teaches second grade. 26 year old Mason. He's an artist. Andrew and Austin are twins. They are both 24 years old and they both work at a bakery. And then lastly Phoenix. The youngest and the only daughter of the Forte family. It was moments like this that she's happy she still has someone in her life. Phoenix was talking with her family and having a good time. She didn't laugh or smile, but her family knows she's having fun.

"Excuse me, I need to go to the washroom." Phoenix said.

Phoenix got up to use the washroom. While she was inside, she started to feel anxious. She never liked it when she was alone in public places because she always felt like being in public was the perfect opportunity to attack.

"Phoenix, I know you're here. You can't run from me. You're mine."

Phoenix closed her eyes and began to pray. Praying he wouldn't find her, or someone shows a sign that he's a figment of her imagination.