Insomniacs [l.r.h.]

FOUR - LURK

Life is something that happens when you can't get to sleep.

- Fran Lebowitz

FOUR - LURK

The first time? Probably an accident.

The second time? Maybe he was apologizing for the first time.

The third time? It wasn't an accident anymore.

I stared at my phone. It was ringing for the fourth time within ten minutes.

CALLER ID: Luke

I'd closed my blinds. I hesitantly picked up the phone. I stared at the screen. My ringtone blared senselessly.

It abruptly stopped.

I slowly let out my breath. What did he want?

We hadn't talked in three days. That was it. Just three days.

I was setting down my phone when it buzzed.

TEXT: Luke

Why are you ignoring me?

I shuddered for no apparent reason. Why was he like this?

I didn't answer.

TEXT: Luke

Did I do something wrong?

No. You did something right, I thought to myself.

I still didn't answer.

TEXT: Luke

Natalie?

I frowned. I glanced at the blinds that separated us. "Luke..." I whispered.

He texted me immediately.

Almost as if he could hear me.

TEXT: Luke

I just want to talk.

Right. Just talk.

I cautiously picked up my phone.

Hi Luke.

TEXT: Luke

Natalie! I thought you died or something. How come you haven't been answering me?

I bit my lip and typed out a reply.

Sorry, been a bit busy.

TEXT: Luke

Liar. You've been up as late as ever.

I couldn't avoid him anymore.

I'm not really used to having friends. I'm too used to being alone.

TEXT: Luke

Well get used to me.

It sounded ominous.

I didn't answer. I set my phone down and flung myself onto my bed. I lay on my back. "What am I going to do?" I asked myself.

There was a knock at my door.

I jumped inadvertently. "Yes?"

My mom opened the door. "The lobby called. There's a boy waiting for you downstairs." Her lips pressed together for a moment. She was contemplating something.

I sat up. "What is it?" I asked.

She frowned. "Well... why?"

"Why what?"