Truth Sets You Free

Chapter 39

"You have a meeting scheduled for two, but I could always try to move it around for you so you can go on your date. I know today's your anniversary. Congratulations by the way." Chloe rambles as she stands in front of my desk with her planner in her hand.

"Thanks." I smile slightly, keeping my gaze locked on my computer screen.

"Do you know where he's taking you?"

"Uh...no, actually it's a surprise." I finally decide that I'm being rude, and I turn my attention to her. She's beaming at me, and I wish that I could return it, but I can't.

"Ooh, that's exciting. Well, I'll move the meeting. That way you're afternoon will be free."

"Chloe, I can always call him and cancel. I know we're really busy with the new edition coming out at the end of the week."

"No, don't worry about it. The editing staff has it covered. We won't even notice you're gone." She chimes happily. "Enjoy your date."

Without giving me another chance to argue, she turns on her heel and walks out of my office. I sit there for a moment staring at the door before sighing deeply and putting my face in my hands with my elbows propped up on the desk.

My phone vibrates, and I jump slightly, lifting my head and looking at it.

Tyler- I'm leaving the apartment now. I hope you're ready ;)

I wish I could be more excited. It's our two-year anniversary, but there's something holding me back from the happiness that I know I'm supposed to be feeling. Maybe it's the fact that I have very strong suspicions that he's going to propose to me. Jessica thinks it. Everyone at work thinks it. Hell, even I'm thinking it at this point.

He's been dropping hints like crazy.

A few months ago, at Jessica and Ryan's wedding, he pretty much asked for my opinion on everything from the centerpieces to the playlist. I swear he was taking mental notes on my answers the entire evening.

I know that he's really ready for it. And maybe that's why I feel more nervous than excited. Because I'm not excited.

Tyler and I have been together for two years, which means it has been three years since I had to completely start my life over.

***3 years ago***

The fire rages, and the smoke billows in the wind, but that's all I see. I don't see any movement. I don't see anyone emerging from the flames.

My ears are still ringing from the explosion, but I'm able to make out the sound of sirens wailing in the distance. I should get out of here. When the fire trucks show up, the police will be quick to follow. If they question me about what happened, I know I'll crack. I'll tell them everything.

I have to leave, but I can't. Not without Harry.

I start moving towards the fire, but two arms wrap around my waist, pulling me backwards.

"You need to get out of here." A deep familiar voice says next to my ear. I turn my head to see that Ace is the one holding onto me.

"Get off me." I scream, thrashing around until he finally lets me go. Well, he partially lets me go. He stands in my path and places his hands on my shoulders.

"Go." He says strongly.

"I can't leave without him." I shake my head as tears begin to stream down my face. I'm completely hysterical.

"You have to."

"What about Andrew?" I ask. Even though he almost had me killed, he's still my brother. I need to go find them both.