The Fabric of Reality

Chapter Eleven - Answers

X-rays revealed fractures to three of my ribs, and a CT scan discovered a ruptured spleen as well. Bruises covered my body, and my headache was the result of a concussion. There was heavy internal bleeding, meaning I was lucky to be alive. The cause of my injuries? Unknown. The doctors speculate I was involved in a hit and run, but because I have no memories of the incident, no official reports have been made.

I need answers. The sooner I get out of the hospital, the sooner I can investigate. 

I spent the next few days healing, receiving a few get well cards from relatives. Lauren and Micah would come and visit after school, and those few hours were the highlight of my day. They would regale me with interesting stories of what they encountered that day, although they were probably exaggerating to make it sound more interesting. When they would leave, they would drop off a pile of schoolwork, so I wouldn't fall behind.

My mother cried the entire ride home once I was released from the hospital. She said we're lucky it wasn't any worse, considering we have no idea what actually happened. Although I had physically recovered, the mental wounds remained. I had no recollection of the incident.

The next few days were spent resting in my room. The doctors were astonished at my rapid healing speed, but luckily they didn't pry too much. Nevertheless, my bruises still kept me from being very active.

After these days of nothing but bed rest, I'm ready. Pain still surges every time I move, but it's bearable. Tonight will be the night I sneak out and get answers.

As dusk falls and the sun slowly sets, fingers of darkness pushing away the light of day and painting the walls a dark gray. Through the open window, a cold breeze drifts in, making me shiver. I don't know what I'll find out there, but there's no going back now. After a deep breath, I hop out the window. I take one last glance at my house before disappearing into the night.

Unlike the previous night, the downtown streets are bustling with activity. People laden with shopping bags, friends heading to bars, and couples walking happily together roam the sidewalks. The roads themselves are packed with cars, a few drivers exchanging angry words with one another. Bright lights lit up the dark night sky.

I drift along invisibly, careful not to bump into anyone. I realize with a start that I don't even know what I'm looking for, as I still have no idea even where I was apparently ambushed. My one goal at the moment was to find my lost suit. I had already changed before being attacked, and had my suit in my bag. That means whoever - or whatever - had attacked me might have my suit. I would do anything in my power to get it back.

Retracing my steps that night, I end up in the alleyway where I parted ways with Cobalt. Suddenly, the night air feels ten degrees colder and goosebumps form on my skin. When I close my eyes, images flash beneath my eyelids. A path of alleyways that seems familiar. Could these be traces of memories?

Without any other leads to follow, I listen to my gut telling me to follow this path. Feeling as though I were being tugged along by an invisible rope, navigating this maze of alleys between shady buildings. I take a left, then a right, followed by one more left turn. Eventually I lose track of how far I've gone. I'm completely and utterly lost, the only thing guiding me is this mysterious feeling.

Suddenly,  dead end brings me to an abrupt halt. Confused, I look up at the wall. Instantly, my blood runs cold.

Sprayed on the wall in big, red graffiti letters is a message, addressed only to me.

Hey Brooke, looking for something?

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Hello hello

Story time: I no longer have internet access on weekends (don't ask why), making Saturday updates impossible. I'm still trying to figure out how I'll work writing into my new schedule, but just bear with me.

Until next time,

-B