Runaways: A Romeo & Juliet Story

Chapter 24

"I've been a romantic for so long

All I've ever heard are love songs"

- I Dare You by The xx

JULIET

Apparently Lysander has some fans around because Hammer heard great things. We all agreed that if we're trying to stay here long-term we need more than Hammer. So he's on his way now for a trial period.

Hammer goes out in the morning to pick up our two visitors for the day– both Evana and Lysander arrive blindfolded to the Montague property.

I watch from our bedroom window as Lysander greets Romeo in front of the house. He looks up and immediately sees me in the window, instinctively I move away. Then I feel like an idiot and reappear with a casual wave. So embarrassing.

I avoid him while Romeo gets his help loading the truck with Montague heirlooms for us to sell on the black market. Hammer heard about a buyer and they're going out there this week.

I sit with Evana and do my lessons. I'm really grateful to have her here. She's so smart and has expertise in so many fields. I can't believe she's stuck in this part of the country tutoring. I want to pry. So I do.

"Evana, you're such an incredible woman. Did you grow up around here? Where'd you get your education?"

I think I noticed her face stiffening a bit before she smiles and turns on her charm.

"We all have so many lives don't we? When you're young you think you'll be on a path and walk in the direction you planned. Then you find yourself constantly hitting dead ends or detours and before you know it you're not on the path you planned at all, but if you're lucky you might be on the path that's better for you."

What did I ask to get that answer?

There's a knock at the door and Lysander pops his head in.

"Sorry to interrupt ladies, but I have been instructed to listen to the phone in here while Hammer tests something. I promise not to disturb you."

"No worries. Come in." I say.

Lysander smiles politely at Evana.

"Oh, did they introduce you guys?"

"Not really." Evana says.

"Oh well, Evana, this is Lysander who's helping Hammer with security. On a trial basis. And Evana is our, well, my tutor."

"Nice to meet you properly, ma'am." Lysander says, making his way to the phone.

"Nice to meet you officially." She says.

She returns her attention to me.

"I think I saw him at the club the other night." she whispers.

"Ah yes, you did. Coincidence."

"Interesting. I wonder who he knew there. It was kind of an exclusive guest list."

"He's an enigma." I say, as Lysander talks to Hammer on the phone.

♡♡♡♡

Evana and I are packing up and Lsyander comes over.

"Finished for the day?" he asks.

"Evana has packed my brain with so much knowledge I need to rest." I joke.

"So how's life in the woods for a beach girl?"