Invincible

Chapter 9- I've Always Loved You

After laying there on the cold, hard floor for a while, I finally get the strength to stand. People are starting to look for security. Apparently they are getting worried. I begin to take small slow steps while keeping my head down.

Numbly I walk out of the Mall. I feel myself wanting to walk in front of a moving vehicle. Death seems like the only escape. Anything to take the pain and fear away. I feel completely trapped. Death is the only thing that I feel is in my control. If I take my own life... that would really piss him off.

Just as I'm about to take my first step onto the pavement toward the oncoming traffic, my phone rings. I want to ignore it, and end this game now. The thought that it might be someone else causes me to fish my phone out of my purse.

I would recognize the number anywhere. Tears sting my eyes at the thought that I almost missed his call. "Zack?"

"Lex, I just landed at the airport... are you going to come get me, or should I meet you somewhere?"

Was it really already 6 O'clock. I guess I lost track of time. "I'm sorry, I lost track of time. I'm on my way now."

"No problem, Babe, I'll see you soon!"

Babe? He makes it sound as if we never broke up. I would have thought I'd be excited, but what I feel is confusion. What made him come back to me? I hear nothing from him for a year, what's changed? Now is not the time to ask questions regarding my insecurities. The facts is, he's here. "Yes, see you soon!"

"I love you! Always have!"

He loves me? I don't respond. I just hang up and schedule an Uber.

Throughout the drive to the Airport, I feel torn! With Kat's death, Jesse being in the hospital, Zack coming back, and knowing that my life could be over by one crazy lunatic, I can't seem to identify my emotions. My thoughts are scrambling, and with the cluster of emotions swirling inside me, I begin to squirm in my seat.

Thoughts of Zack's smile is the only thing that soothes me. Soon I will see that smile. Feel those arms, and kiss those lips. At least, I hope to.

Once we pull into the passenger pick up lane, I see Zack standing outside waiting. His curly dark hair is longer, and his face more mature. His body has filled out some, but to me he couldn't look any better. I can tell he's been spending quite a bit of time at the gym.

Rolling down my window, I wave at Zack. He sends me a million dollar smile, showing off his perfectly white teeth. I blink several times to make sure this isn't a dream. Is Zack really here?

Grabbing the handle of the door, I tell the driver to wait for me before stepping out of the car. With full speed I run into Zack's arms. I don't care how desperate I look. His arms are my safe haven.

The minute his arms engulf me, peace falls over me. "I've missed you!"

Zack's arms tighten around me.

"I've missed you more! Come on! Lets get something to eat. I'm starving!"

Zack takes my hand in his, and guides me back to the car, pulling his luggage behind. He helps me into the car before walking around to the back of the vehicle. Our driver takes Zack's bag, and loads it up. It isn't long before Zack is back by my side, and grabbing my hand once more.

"Hey, pal, could you please take us to the best Tai Restaurant in town!"

"No problem!"

"Also, keep your eyes on the road! I haven't seen my girl for a long time. Things might get a little hot back here if you know what I mean."