Riddle

V. Warm Truths

Alex's POV

After the three bodies were cleared and the blood was cleaned up from the floor, I gestured Darren to bring the two girls back into the room. Both were cowering, still trying to get over the gunshots that rang in the air. 

"D...don't kill us please....," Lea whimpered.

I wiped my hands off on my suit jacket and chuckled.

"Why would I go through the effort of saving you and then kill you?" I asked.

They visibly relaxed and Elizabeth cleared her throat, brushing a strand of her brunette hair behind her ear.

"T..thank you so much Mr. Fox...," she whispered, her eyes glued to my shoes.

I frowned, crossing my arms. What's with all the formalities?

"It was no problem. His gang has been causing too much trouble recently. It had to be taken care of eventually. While we're on the topic of Marcus, how does he know you? You're not...his ex are you?" I questioned.

Her face flushed and she shook her head furiously.

"No it's not like that at all. I work at a bar as a waitress and I happened to meet him and his friends one night during my shift. He started talking to me by asking for a few drinks but then started asking me where I lived, what time I got off work, you know...the personal questions. I tried to ignore him but he followed me home after work. If my headlights weren't broken that day, I don't think I would have ever lost him. I have no idea how he got my number..."

I nodded. It wasn't uncommon for Marcus to hit on girls. 

"Well, I'm glad you and your sister are alright. Would you like me to drive you home?"

"No that's ok. You've already done so much for me..."

Lea interrupted.

"Elizabeth, I still have to get home... I'm sure Ms. Taylor is worried. I haven't gone to school in three days..."

"Of course sweetheart. Are you sure you don't want to stay with me? You've been through a lot..."

"No I'm alright. I think I'll get better...mentally...hanging out with my friends."

"Oh...ok. Call me if anything happens ok?"

Lea nodded and walked out of the room. Elizabeth turned her gaze back towards me and smiled awkwardly.

"That's just the way she is. She can shake off anything. Ever since she started living with her teacher and started hanging out with her friends, she's been like an entirely new person. Although I do miss having her around. I just worry too much," she chuckled.

I smiled and ran my hand through my hair. I sneaked a look at my watch and saw that it was getting late.

"Would you like to stay the night? There are plenty of guest rooms in the suite and it would be no trouble," I offered.

She gently shook her head and smiled. 

"No that's ok. My house isn't terribly far. I can walk. I really can't thank you enough for what you have done Alex."

My smiled widened.

"I'll drive you home. I insist."

She chuckled and did a mock salute.

"Yes sir."