Exchanged

Chapter 6

I had six. Six hours to fix the mess I had created. Six hours to get the job done.

Mack was my first stop. I abandoned our plans to meet at the Needle, and rushed back to the alley. I pulled my chestnut curls back as they lashed my face with every stride. The darkness drew closer and closer. My destination was approaching.

I entered the alley and saw something lurking in the shadows. I grabbed my pocket knife as I advanced towards the silhouette. I stepped towards it. It stepped closer.

"Come out," I commanded it.

It stepped reluctantly towards me. The It was a teenage boy. About my height, dark hair, brown eyes, and a burning red x across his face. The It was Mack.

"Your just like everyone else," I cried. "You lie to me. You don't allow me to make my own decisions. You don't trust me!"

Tears rolled down my cheeks as my face rose red with frustration. Mack placed his hand on my face to wipe away my tears. I would not allow him to comfort me. I shoved his hand away.

I attempted to storm off, but Mack's grasp on my shoulder was too strong. As he pulled me towards him, I felt a spark of reluctancy. But I shoved it off. I can't stay mad at him.

"I'm sorry Elle," he said. "I didn't mean to piss you off. But I can't live knowing that I could've taken away your pain and guilt of losing your father. I'd rather die than see you suffer."

After a quick contemplation, I tried to protest.

"But that's what you don't understand, Mack. If you die, I will suffer."

Mack stated, "A girl needs her father."

I shot back, "A girl also needs the guy she loves."

The moment the words came out, I blushed. Mack looked at me, startled and dazed. Then he smiled. A smile brighter than a thousand stars. I'd never seen this grin before.

"I love you too, Elle, more than anything," Mack admitted. "And that's exactly why I'm doing this."

I knew the persuasion was not going to partake. I had to go on with my plan.

I wrapped my arms around Mack. I slipped my hand in my bag, scooped a glob of cream, and placed it softly on the x across his face. Mack was distracted by the embrace and didn't realize what I had done. I let go of Mack, and headed for my next stop.

I entered the sunlight, content with myself. Step one was complete.