Leaving Me Behind

Chapter Five

Chapter Five

“Please don’t scream.” He says, a bit paranoid because of my reaction.

“Sorry. I’m just a big fan.” I lie.

“It’s okay. You’re also a nice fan.” He takes a seat next to me. I stiffen, uncomfortable. “I saw what you did for that girl in there.”

“Thanks.” I say, not really knowing if that was an appropriate answer.

“So, you from here?” he tries to start a conversation.

“Aren’t you supposed to be in there?” I ignore his question and points to where the premiere was going on.

“Yeah, but I snuck out.” He shrugs like it’s the most unimportant thing in the world. “I know what happens anyway. Spoiler alert: everyone dies.”

I laugh. “Really!?”

“No.” he chuckles.

I laugh again; feeling a bit more relaxed, like I’m talking to the old Dylan again. “And yeah, I’m from here.” I answer his question from before.

“Cool! Me too!”

“Yeah, I know.” I say smiling, recalling old memories from our past.

“Been doing your research?” he smirks.

“What!?” I ask confused, “Oh. Yeah. Guilty is charged.” I make up, realizing again that he still doesn’t know who I am. This sucks. I’m looking at him right in the face and he still can’t recognize me.

“So… what’s your name?” Dylan flashes his award winning smile. I wasn’t planning to answer but time is not on my side.

“Jess!” Val calls out, sprinting from the theater door. “Jessica! Why’d you go?”

Dylan turns and faces me. “Jess? I used to know someone named—” he stops and takes a good look at my face. His smile drops. “Jessica?” he barely whispers.

“Hi. Dylan.”