Murder in the First Degree

Xiomara

"Hi.  I'm Xiomara Laters.  You can call me Xi."  I glance around the circle of people and clear my throat," This is the fourth rehab facility I've been to.  When trying to stop my drug use from the influence of my boyfriend, I relapsed twice," mouth dry as a desert I swallow the foam of spit coming from my tongue. "and although I had set backs, I've been clean for a month and a half.  If I keep it up, Chase m-my boyfriend promised he'd be waiting for me." I finish with relief.  I've always had lousy skills with group speaking. 
"My name is Justin Powers." in a monotone voice was the last thing I heard after zoning out.  Just thinking of Chase's smile and tight bear hug gave me motivation to stay drug free.  Opening my eyes, I scan the room.  Periwinkle colored walls, white ceilings, and pictures of all the counselors in frames decorated the small room we were in.  All of us are silent, except for whoever is introducing themselves.  Then there's footsteps, light footsteps and three slow taps on the door.  Everyone's eyes flicker towards the knocks as one of the counselors go see who it is.  It's deadly quiet, a low husky whisper putting a halt to the lull.
"Of course," the counselor answers to the hushed tone.  "Xiomara, we have someone that would like to speak to you."  Of all people, someone has to speak to me.  Very, slowly I rise from my chair; staring at the ground avoiding everyone's gaze.  Chattering sounds throughout the almost claustrophobic room.
"Hello Ms. Laters.  My name is Detective Benjamin and this is my partner."  Detective Benjamin gestures towards an older man with graying hair.  "Hi, I'm Detective Ough."
"Nice to meet you Detective Ough and Detective Benjamin, but what is this about?"
"I'm so sorry Ms. Laters, but your boyfriend Chase Bryan was found dead on your bathroom  floor three days ago.  Sorry that you just got the news; we had trouble locating you."
"No. No. No.  That isn't right.  You're talking about a different Chase Bryan."  My world was shattering.  "Not my Chase.  Not my Chase."  I repeat breaking down; falling into Detective Benjamin's arms.