Flashcards On The Wall

Chapter 43: A Way Out

Two days later was when I saw Gabriel next. I grab my bag, notes and coffee as I'm leaving for a ten o'clock class. Opening the front door, I reach for the key to lock it. When I turn towards the door again, I see Gabriel standing there. I feel myself jump.

"Sorry," he says.

I inhale deeply with my eyes closed.

"It's okay. I should be used to it by now," I reply.

What is the point of having a phone if you don't use it?

"Do you have a minute?" he asks.

"I'm actually running late for class," I check my watch, "It started fifteen minutes ago. Can whatever it is wait?"

"It's important."

That's his serious voice.

"What is it about?" I question.

His response is, "Charlie."

"Gabriel, not right now," I answer, "Every time he comes up, we fight. I don't have time for this. I have to go."

"It'll only take a minute," he insists.

"Okay. Walk me out," I say.

"You don't want to do this outside. Believe me," he tells me.

Do what?

"Fine," I say, "Come in."

I set my things down on the closest table and let him inside. He closes the door behind him.

"What is it?" I ask.

He hesitates.

"Gabriel? What?" I'm getting anxious.

"I got a call a little while ago," he replies.

"Okay?" I wait for the part that concerns me.

"It was my Mom. She'd just spoken to my aunt," he continues.

"He woke up?" I ask.

"No, he didn't. Charlie died this morning," he answers.

What?

"He..." I start but then lose my words.

"I came straight here. I thought you should be one of the first to know," he explains.

I sit on the couch right behind me. Attempting to breathe while a million thoughts race through my mind.

"He was supposed to wake up. He's not supposed to get a way out," I finally say shaking my head.

"He should've paid for what he did to you," Gabriel says, "I know. Believe me, I wanted him to."

"No, no you don't know Gabriel. How is this right? In what universe does this make sense?" I ask.

"It doesn't," he answers.

"He gets to tear my world apart and what do I get?" I ask.

To that he has no answer. Even if he did, it wouldn't matter.

I wipe away my tears and clear my throat, "Thank you for letting me know."

"Amelia-" he starts.

"Please don't say anything. Maybe you can do this right now, but I really can't."