Their Flame {ON HIATUS UNTIL MY WRITER'S BLOCK GETS HIT BY A TRUCK}

Chapter 16: Katrina

At five-thirty the next day, I arrive at the small, North Gate Park. As I walk across the playground's sand, a swing set catches my eye. Since Jack isn't here yet, I walk over and sit on the play piece, smiling as I pump my legs to get higher.

About two minutes later, I hear the crunching of gravel behind me and turn to see Jack.

"Hey." I exclaim, standing up from my place on the swing to walk over to the taller boy.

"Hey. Are you ready?" I nod, biting my lip.

"As ready as I'll ever be."

***

The atmosphere between us is different. It's not as peaceful as it usually is. I suppose that's because we're both nervous - though I show it a bit more than Jack.

As my breathing quickens in anticipation, so does my heart rate - the feeling of it resonating in my chest. Blood rushes through my body, creating a static-like sound in my ears.

The shaking in my hands starts when we're halfway to the meeting point, my fingers trembling like leaves in a heavy wind.

Somewhere along the way, Jack notices and stops walking, stepping in front of me instead.

"Are you gonna be okay? We don't have to do this if you don't want to."

I shake my head, looking up at Jack as I remember the message left on my phone.

I'll find you and your Connector, and I'll eliminate you both.

"I can do this. I have to do this."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

He nods, silently returning to my side. A few seconds later, Jack grabs my hand and gives it a reassuring squeeze. However, when he tries to let go, I grip his hand tighter, keeping his fingers interlocked with mine.

He's my only partner in all this, and boy am I grateful.

As we reach the alley that leads to 86th Street, Jack pauses, turning to face me.

"You can do this ok. We can do this. Remember, I'll always have your back. If anything goes wrong, I'll be right there to help."

He takes my other hand in his, holding them tightly. I smile at him, a determined look in my eyes.

"Let's go get rid of Aubrey for real."

Releasing one of my hands, Jack nods. The two of us walk side by side down the alley, staying alert as a run down gas station comes into view.

As we approach, I can tell that this is another abandoned place in our town. The smell of old gasoline is agonizingly strong and I gag as my lungs protest against my body, not wanting to get any closer.

Movement from the shadows that the convenience store casts catches my eye. I squeeze Jack's hand, nodding my head towards the building.

I found them.

Releasing my hand from his gentle hold, I take a step forward. Then another. And another.

I feel Jack's presence a few steps behind me and it only boosts my reassurance.

I'll be fine. Jack is here.

"Why hello there you two, thank you for joining us. As you know, I asked you to come here for a very important reason." Aubrey points her index finger at me.

"That reason is you Katrina, but you already know that. I need you to complete my experiment."

"What experiment?" Jack sneers.