As I Am (Part 2 of There You'll Be)

Haunted Things

<Evelyn's POV>
Zak has been gone 3 days. Three freaking day. Three of 10 days. I seem to be in some sort of time warp because it seems like weeks ago, I had promised another baby. It was actually just a few hours earlier.

I was heading back to the museum today. My first time back since going on bed rest with Emery. My hands tremble as I unlock the gate to pull inside the back lot.

Once I'm parked, I take a big breath to collect myself and walk to the door. I stretch out my hand, with my cherry red coffin shaped nails and my wedding ring, and unlock the door to the museum.

That first whiff of the museum smells like home. God, I have so many good memories here. Sure, the last time I was here was almost tragic but being the Mrs. I guess this museum is partially mine too.

I'm early today, as in maybe 2 hours or so? I should've had Zak walk me through before he left. I feel like so much has changed. I walk through the exhibits and rooms, inspecting and welcoming myself back in.

It's not too long before I start to pick up on spirits residing here. They're appearing to say Hello. I get cold chills, feel as if I'm being hugged and my hands being played with.

Most of the spirits here are pretty much like residence in an old folks home. We all know them, we all have our favorites.

I walk into the oddities room and am greeted by the Zaktar machine. Yes, my husband has a custom Zoltar machine of himself. I smile to myself, missing my sweet man right now.

I check on a few more rooms and decide to have a glance in the Demon House exhibit. The museum before and after hours is my favorite. It's a spirits playground. God, I wish our fans and guest could feel them all.

I'm in the Demon House exhibit, looking at the artifacts and the staircase when my phone starts to ring.

Almost peeing my pants with fear and shock from the noise, I pick up.

"Why hello Handsome? Missing me already? I'm in the Demon House room right now. I love you."

"Hey baby. God I miss you so fucking bad, I'm sick. Funny you're practically in the same place I am." He says.

"How's it being back? To the land, that is. Anything wild yet?" I ask.

"I was gonna ask you the same thing, actually." I can hear him smiling.

"I forgot how much I loved this place, lover. That first smell of the museum felt like coming home."

He sniffles.

"Yeah. I'm sure it does baby. All of that is yours too you know. You're my other half, remember?"

"Baby? What's going on? You don't sound like yourself." I question.

I hear his hotel door close and he talks a little louder. I know he's alone now.

"I'm not doing very well. The anxiety of being back, not knowing how badly this will mess me up this time, yours & the kids safety when I come home with god knows what. I don't know, Em. I just want you so bad right now. I need you. I'm scared. I've never been scared and lonely like I am right now."

In that moment, my strong headed, paranormal prince, protector of the family, tough guy is feeling real small.

"Z Baby, it's okay. The babies and I are fine. Gracie is here too. Your Mom is okay. All is well. You're so brave, you're my ghostbuster." I say trying to cheer him up.

"Ev?"

"Yes Baby?"

"I want to come home."