When both boys are asleep, I like to pull on my parka, creep onto the porch and gaze at the stars. For someone who was terrified of being alone in this empty city a few days ago, I have come to treasure the few moments of solitude the night gives me.
I am conflicted. How do I know I can trust either of these boys? The problem is - I don't know. I don't even remember them. All I know is my gut feeling tells me they can be trusted.
But how do I really know?
***
"So, what's your plan?" asks Mathias.
"Get to L.A., find a high point, get a birds eye view of the city," I explain.
"Griffith Observatory," Mathias says matter-of-factly. "Best view of L.A. around."
Thomas frowns. "I was thinking a skyscraper -"
"A prime place to be ambushed, if you ask me," says Mathias cheerfully.
I ponder over his point. "You know, Thomas, that does sound quite logical..."
Thomas does not respond. He continues to shove food items into his already bulging pack.
I liked it better when I just had one companion.
"You know what? Mathias is right," says Thomas. He smiles. "Good thinking, Mathias."
Mathias looks as surprised as I feel. "Glad you think so."
Something in Thomas' expression - softened, wistful - makes me think there's more than meets the eye. Does he know something we don't?
"We used to go there a lot," explains Thomas. "Jill and I. Maybe that will bring back memories. That might help, don't you think?"
Mathias frowns at this. "Maybe the skyscraper is a better idea-"
"No, I'd like my memories," I say. "Griffith Observatory it is."
Honestly, I am afraid of what I will find. What secrets does my memory hold for me? Will I like what I find?
All I know is I cannot live blindly any longer.
YOU ARE READING
Empty City
Science FictionA girl awakens in an empty city devoid of people or any semblance of life. She cannot remember her past, or why she is here. Then she meets a boy whom she so badly wants to trust - because there's no one else. But is he who he seems to be? Why is...
