My Last Online Date

8. About time

I haven't been able to get any rest. My sleep pills offer only a fleeting relief, as anxiety about my safety keeps me awake. I'm sleep deprived, bags growing under my eyes. I talked to Star, and she told me she'll give me the information to the person who came and put her cameras up. I'd reached my breaking point, but the thought of leaving this house, which I adored, was unbearable. I felt trapped.

I called the police, but they can't really do anything without a name, and if he wasn't harassing me. Back in Silver Dale, they would've did everything they could to figure out who it was the moment I called them. I guess somethings are just different here in Locus. I told them about the gift being left on my porch, and the phone call. They told me they'll look into it, but I haven't heard back from them yet. I was really hoping some vital information would come up, so they could arrest him.

I asked my parents if they could house sit, and watch Oreo while I was on the cabin trip next week. Which was in a couple days. I didn't feel comfortable leaving him alone for that long. I wanted to make sure they would feel safe here though. I set up an appointment with the tech people to come a little later today. They gave me a discount because I knew Star, and I was glad about that.

    I laced up my jogging shoes and slipped into some comfortable clothes, ready to clear my mind. Running always had a clarifying effect on my mind, sweeping away the mental fog and leaving me feeling refreshed.

I left the cat door unlocked, so Oreo could get some fresh air and sun light while I was gone. As I started my way to the trail, the sun illuminated the devastation, revealing the trail of destruction left by last night's storm. Broken branches and scattered leaves covered the ground. The puddles formed a winding obstacle course, forcing me to zigzag through the waterlogged landscape.

The cool breeze felt nice as it brushed against my skin. I could sense fall's arrival, as leaves transformed into vibrant hues of orange and red. Painting the landscape with warm, autumnal colors. Autumn was my favorite season. When the world seemed to wrap itself in a warm, cozy blanket. Everything felt tranquil and soothing, inviting relaxation.

Today was the day Derrick was supposed to visit. This was going to be our first time meeting in person. The long distance relationship has been hard for me. Especially with everything that has been happening.

     There's this feeling that still sits in the bottom of my stomach, and the back of my mind, that he's a catfish. I think about this all the time, because to this day I still haven't seen him besides his profile picture. Anybody could take any picture off the internet, and claim it as theirs.

     It was always weird to me that he never wanted to video call or anything like that. He claims he's always busy with work, or too tired and just wants to rest. I try not to argue to
much, but it all sounds like excuses to me. I mean he could simply tell me he doesn't want to video call me.

     I had some cleaning to finish, so I ended my jog to head home. I was excited for this upcoming week. Derrick was not only coming to visit, but he was able to get off of work to go on the cabin trip as well. It would be Star, her friends, Derrick, and I. The thought of being able to sit down, and actually get to meet Star friends was exciting to me.

     I just got done taking a shower and washing my hair. I pulled my robe on and slid my feet into my slippers, because I didn't feel like getting ready. Also I lived alone, so it really wasn't a need. Just as I was about to settle into the living room to watch tv, the sound of gravel crunching under tires caught my attention- a car had pulled into my driveway. It was only the tech guy to put up my cameras. I went to open the door for him.

     "Hello ma'am," he spoke as he walked towards me.

    "Hello, how are you?"

    "I'm good ma'am thanks for asking, how are you?"