SILICON AND SILK

Unseen crossroads

The evening air hung thick with a hint of coming rain. Amelia stood in the living room, flipping through an old photo album. Each image brought a smile to her face—snapshots of her life with Lucas, reminders of all they had worked for. She ran her fingers across a photo of Lucas, his hair windswept and a smile lighting up his face, taken during a day trip to the beach. That day had been carefree, unburdened by the uncertainties that now weighed on her mind.

The sudden ringing of the phone broke through her thoughts, startling her. She glanced at the clock—it was late for anyone to call. She picked up the phone, her brow furrowed.

- Hello? - she answered, her voice carrying a touch of apprehension.

There was a moment of silence on the other end before a voice she didn't recognize spoke.

- Amelia? I'm sorry for calling so late. My name is Travis. I'm an old friend of Jack's. He told me I could reach him here - the voice said, sounding tired and worn.

Amelia hesitated. Jack had been with them for almost a week now, and this was the first time someone had reached out about him. She could feel a knot tightening in her chest.

- Yes, he's here. Let me get him for you - she said, her eyes shifting toward the hallway where Jack was staying.

She walked down the hallway and knocked on the door to Jack's room. A muffled response came from inside, and she pushed the door open slightly.

- Jack, there's someone on the phone for you. He said his name is Travis - Amelia said.

Jack's eyes widened slightly at the mention of the name, and he stood up quickly, crossing the room to take the phone from her.

- Thanks, Amelia - he muttered, his voice tight.

Amelia lingered for a moment, watching as Jack took the phone and retreated back into the room, closing the door behind him. Something about the way he reacted made her uneasy. She turned and walked back to the living room, her mind racing with questions.

***

Jack closed the door, pressing the phone to his ear. His heart pounded as he spoke.

- Travis? What's going on? Why are you calling me here? - Jack asked, his voice low, almost a whisper.

There was a sigh on the other end of the line.

- Jack, I didn't know where else to turn. Things have gone south, man. I need your help. They're asking questions about you. About where you went - Travis said, his tone filled with urgency.

Jack's jaw tightened, and he paced the small room, his eyes darting to the door to make sure it was still closed.

- I told you to keep things quiet, Travis. I'm trying to lay low here. I can't afford any trouble - Jack hissed, his voice strained.

- I know, I know. But they're not backing off. They think you know more than you're letting on. I tried to buy you time, but I don't know how much longer I can keep them off your back - Travis said, his voice growing more desperate.

Jack closed his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose. He had hoped that by coming here, by seeking refuge with Lucas, he could find some peace—some time to figure things out. But it seemed that his past wasn't going to let go so easily.

- Listen, I'll figure something out. But you need to keep your head down. Don't call here again. I don't want to drag them into this - Jack said, his voice firm.

There was a pause before Travis replied.

- Alright. Just... be careful, Jack. They're serious this time.