"Semi-Short Stories" [ Story Collection ]

Only One Way [] 3/14 []

Leigh chose to write a letter rather than call Luna. It's best to have everything clearly written out. She can choose her words carefully, triple check that she hadn't left anything out, and most of all...avoid sounding as panicked as she felt.

Dear Luna,

Daddy got out.

"How the hell did he get out?" Val has been tense and on edge since his call with Luci a couple days prior. This news unsettles him even more. Could it be the same man? Is there a possibility that Martin Darling is killing people that look like Romeo? It doesn't really make sense...but that doesn't mean that it wasn't still on his mind, now that the chance of it was brought to his attention.

"No one knows yet. Raphael is trying to figure that out right now."

Raphael is working on trying to figure out why right now. He and Michael came to my house yesterday to tell me about it in person. I know it was so they could be there in case I panicked, and I appreciated it.

"Do you need to stay with us for a while? It's a bit crowded, but we can always make room for you."

"No, but thank you. I have Valencia and Stella. And my guns. I'm okay."

I'm okay. I panicked that night, after they left. I've locked away the guns and given Valencia the key. I shot out the kitchen window when I saw my reflection. But I still have my pepper spray and taser. And Valencia.

"Alright. Please, please let us know if you need anything. You're our family, too."

Leigh almost tears up. She gives the man a hug. "Thank you. I will."

I'll call you if anything else happens, but I knew I would panic this time if I called and I didn't want to worry you.

"Keep us updated."

"Of course. Please keep me updated, too. I'd like to know you're safe."

On another note, there's been reports of someone who killed a man who looked a lot like your dad. Romeo. Val thinks it's a coincidence and I'm willingly believing that he's right. But considering everything that's happened in the past, I thought you should know if you haven't already heard about it.

"We'll be fine, but we'll let you know if anything happens." He pulls from the hug, hands remaining just below Leigh's shoulders. "Be careful."

Jokingly, she punches his chest. "You know me. I'm always careful."

I love you. Please stay safe and let me know if anything happens.

Love, Leigh

"I know. But a reminder never hurts."