Dangerous [Bradley Simpson] Sequel to On the Floor (novella)

Chapter Nine - Asher

Saturday morning, or rather afternoon, came quickly after I fell asleep on Connor's couch. The drug-induced sleep I had was more peaceful and uninterrupted than any sleep I had since I left Brad. I awoke to the sun beating down on my face through the open doors that led out to the balcony. When my eyes fluttered open, I saw Connor leaning on the banister, looking down at the city below.

"Good morning," I said, walking out to greet him.

"It's four o' clock," He chuckled.

"I'm sorry I slept so long," I sighed. "I haven't slept that well in a very long time. I had some catching up to do."

"Don't worry about it," he shrugged.

"What are you looking at?" I asked, following his gaze.

"Nothing in particular." He said.

"You seem very concentrated on nothing in particular," I commented. "What's up?"

"Just thinking," he sighed.

"May I ask what about?" I said, turning to face him.

"About what you told me," he said slowly. "It just makes me so... angry."

"I'm angry too," I mumbled.

He turned to look at me. "I think you need to tell the others."

"I don't think I can," I whispered.

"They need to know, especially James."

"Why James?" I asked. "He's angry enough at me."

"That's exactly why you need to tell him." He said. "You two have to make up."

"I think we just need some time away from each other," I shrugged. "I'm sure taking care of a slightly insane abduction victim is tough."

Connor shook his head. "It has nothing to do with that. Everyone is frustrated right now. It hasn't been easy, you coming back into our lives, especially when Brad's life is as topsy-turvy as it is with Allison. Not to mention, James and Tristan are looking for a girl and they don't even know why."

"It was hard enough to tell you and Brad," I murmured.

"They deserve to know what's going on," He said, caressing my arm. "I know it's not easy, but retelling is so much easier than reliving it. Just remember that."

I looked down at the street below, pretending to be mesmerized by the cars passing by.

"Charlotte," Connor said.

"Please stop calling me that," I whispered. "Please."

"Why?" He asked. "That's who you are, whether you like it or not."

"Because it's still dangerous." I said. "I told you."

"You put yourself in danger the second you decided to go looking for this girl." He said. "Calling you a different name won't do anything. And besides, she knows your alias as well. You said so last night, when you told me what she wrote in the letter."

"It' just makes me feel safe being Adelaide, okay?" I retorted. "So, please, respect that, at least."

"Will you tell them?" He asked finally. "Will you tell James and Tristan what really happened six years ago?"