Chapter 24
200words
My artwork gained recognition. Book signings took me to cities across the south.
In the sixth year, Dorian's company went public. He needed to return to London. Asked if I wanted to join him.
I shook my head.
London and everything it represented felt like another lifetime.
I saw Alaric again in the seventh year.
It was an ordinary evening. I was dragging my suitcase, heading for a weekend trip.
In the taxi, the small TV was reporting on Alaric's latest international acquisition, his business empire now reaching unprecedented scale.
I stepped out of the taxi, standing on the curb to take a call from my editor.
"Hello? Are you still there?"
I froze.
Across the street—Alaric was walking directly toward me.
He'd literally just been on the taxi's TV screen.
I thought I was hallucinating until he drew closer.
For what felt like eternity, I debated—
Should I pretend not to see him? Or simply say hello?
Before I could decide, he stepped onto the crosswalk—and a car swerved wildly, heading straight for him...
Turns out I could run faster than I thought.
Pushing him aside, I thought.
