Gifted

Chapter Twenty-Eight

"So what are your plans for Thanksgiving?" Chase caught up with me after class on Wednesday.

"None."

"I was thinking that maybe you wanted to come home with me? My parents love you, and you could meet Jackson."

"I don't know Chase. I don't want to intrude on your family. I think I'll just stay here."

"Morgan I don't want you to stay here alone. There won't be anyone in the dorms, something could happen-"

"You heard Mr. Dawson. We're overreacting, there's no reason to worry." I tried to brush his comment off. Did he want me to come home with him only because he was afraid someone would ambush me? Just knowing it was not because he wanted to spend time with me stung.

He stopped in front of my dorm. "Just think about it. I'm not leaving until six o'clock."

"I'll think about it."

The dorms were already clearing out. I fought against the current of students and luggage on my way up to my room. Iris stopped by to say good-bye before she headed off to spend the weekend with her mom. Kenzie skipped a couple of afternoon classes to make her trek down south.

I tossed my bag onto the desk, flopped on the bed, and stared at the ceiling. I had to admit to myself that it was depressing to see everyone leaving to spend the holiday with their families. Eventually, I drifted off only to be woken by a ping, ping on my window. Chase was waiting for me to open the window. I dragged myself out of bed, surprised to see how late it was.

I slid the window open, and felt the icy air bite at my bare skin.

"I've decided I'm not leaving you here alone."

"Chase I don't want to go anywhere."

"That's why I'm staying here." He winked, and I had to admit to myself; I was secretly happy I wouldn't be spending the weekend alone.

"But your family," I protested.

"They'll be occupied with Jackson; he hasn't been home in months." He brushed it off.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, it's no biggie. I'm just gonna go grab some clothes and call my parents to let them know."

His words made my stomach twist.

"You're staying here?" I squeaked.

"Well yeah, I figured you'd be more comfortable here than in my room."

"I, uh, well..."

"You didn't think I was going to let you stay here with no one around."

"It can't be that empty; we just got out of school a few hours ago."

Chase laughed. "You must have been out; the dorms are completely empty."

"Really? Wow, I didn't think I was that tired." Worry shadowed Chase's face.

"Are you feeling okay?"

"Yeah I'm fine, I guess I needed it. Go call your parents, take your time, I'm not going anywhere." I laughed his concern off.

Once I convinced him to leave, and that I wouldn't spontaneously combust while he was gone, Chase reluctantly departed. I momentarily paced my room until I realized I was starving. Knowing Chase wouldn't turn down food I dialed a pizza delivery and bundled up for my journey to meet the delivery guy in front of Building A.

The lobby of the dorm was eerie. All the lights were off except the red glow of an emergency exit. I was across campus and back in a flash. It was too cold to take my time for a stroll, and I was very thankful the pizzeria was so close.