My Dearest, Laurens

Chapter 7

The restless night resulted in an achy back, a stiff neck and a wet pillow. I folded the quilt and put it back in the chest. I sat at my computer and in the black screen I noticed my oily face and frizzy hair, falling in front of my eyes.

I sighed, trying to smooth my hair with little success. I looked at the window, which just so happened to be the one with the fire escape. I pulled on my slacks because they were there and my shoes, opening the window and climbing out onto the black metal death trap. Which was ironic because it was made to save lives.

I got dizzy looking down at the alleyway from three floors up but decided that going back inside and risking seeing John was a bad idea. I started my decent and reached the first floor and sat on the edge, swinging my legs over and dangling above the pavement. I found the courage to let go and fell six feet, almost falling on my ass when I hit the ground.

I brushed my hands off and started walking. I pulled out my phone, dialing Lafayette's number.

"Hamilton?" Lafayette's accent was thicker than it had been in college.

"Laf, hey."

He immediately knew I wasn't okay. "What's wrong mon amie?"

"John is being distant."

"What else?"

"He missed our date. And he wants to join the military ."

"That's great!"

"I haven't slept in days." I said quickly.

"Mon amie, I wish I could help but I'm about to have a very important meeting."

"Okay," I said, "You go."

"Okay, good luck."

"As with you." I said before haning up.