AllFreeNovel
Share Us
7
Isabella
Ido as I said I would, to start, disappearing into the bathroom. I wait for a few minutes while everyone shuffles down to the burial plot for my father. I made my decision long ago, and today’s the day I am going to act on it.
No longer will I stay trapped in this life of devious obscurity.
When I’m sure the coast is clear, I run for my car. Maddox was out for most of the morning, and I told him I’d drive myself to the church. And I did, with tears still filling my eyes. Now, I am even more of a mess as I return to my car than I was then. I worry—only briefly—that someone might see me and give chase; but, I’m getting out onto the road with no sign that anyone’s noticed.
That’s when I call Maddox. He deserves to hear my reasoning, even if he doesn’t want to.
I know his phone’s on silent from the funeral. It’s rarely not on silent anyway.
Building up the courage, I dial his number once I’m a few blocks away from the church. It rings and finally, the automated voice tells me: the number you have dialed is not available at present. Please leave a message at the beep.
The words come out slowly, harshly, and drearily. Tears still spill from my eyes, and I can’t get a grip on myself.
“Maddox, I’ve been thinking about this message, since our wedding day. Since the night you told me that you love me. A part of me understands it, too. A part of me desperately wants to believe that you mean it. But, another part of me knows I can’t live in this life, cloaked in obscurity and self-preservation. You’re a good man, Maddox. I’ve watched you grow from a brooding, self-loathing lapdog, into a tender giant, ready to take on the world for me. I appreciate that.”
I pause, grabbing a tissue from the passenger seat and wiping my face.
“I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. The fight you’ve put up to help bring my father justice. The strength and vigor you’ve shown, and the carelessness you’ve given to your new role as King. I believe that you want to find the person, who did this, and I know you will, but I can’t be a part of that fight. It’s not mine, and it’s never been mine.”
In the rearview mirror, I see two cars driving up behind me. They’re black sports cars and my heart starts to race. Has Maddox already figured it out? Is he already giving chase to stop me?
Fuck.
“You are a good man, a great man, but this life is swallowing you whole. Get out while you can. I don’t know whether I love you, Maddox. I don’t know if I ever could, but it pains me to leave your side. Even now. That’s why—”
Before I can finish my sentence, the black sports cars are on me. My nerves hit an all-time high. I continue trying to speak, but before another word can leave my lips, I feel the impact of a car into the back of my Ferrari. My car slides, but I manage to catch it and pull it straight.
The cellphone flies from my hands. I floor the gas pedal, but it’s too late. They’ve already reached the speed that I’m trying to achieve. The first car slams into my back again, while the second drives riskily into the oncoming traffic lane. As I feel a third bump to my Ferrari’s backside, the second car slams into my side.
I lose control of my car. It slips and slides across the road and then it tumbles, rolling over itself. I hit my head against the steering wheel, and only just manage to stay conscious.
But, when the car finally settles, there is no fight left in me. I’m weak and banged up. My head is thumping and my eyes feel heavy.
Before my attackers can even reach my side, the world is consumed by black.
