Chapter 10
I come to a stop outside of the old rundown apartment complex.
This is really where he lives?
I feel an ache in my chest as worry fills me. Shaking myself, I focus on why I’m here, taking a deep breath.
Can’t be feeling sorry for him. He did this to himself.
Once satisfied my head is back in control, I climb out of my car and make my way toward the entrance. As I’m about to open the door, my phone buzzes in my pocket. Slipping it out, I raise an eyebrow at the unknown number. Usually I would just decline and move on, but something urges me to answer instead. “Hello?” I say cautiously, pressing the phone to my ear.
“Hi, is this Nova Harlan?” A tired voice replies on the other end of the line.
My heart skips, a sickening feeling forming in my gut. “Yes.” My fingers tighten as the unknown caller sighs sadly in response.
“I have some bad news regarding Hollis Barlow. I’m calling from St. Anthony General and we have you listed as Mr. Barlow’s emergency contact.” The man’s voice fades as I struggle to breathe. “Miss Harlan?” I hear faintly, trying to pull myself back from the sheer panic overwhelming my system.
Past the point of being able to correct him, I respond, “Yes, I’m still here.” My voice is hollow as I beat back my emotions.
There’s a pause before the gruff voice returns. “I’m sorry for having to ask you this over the phone. But Mr. Barlow doesn’t have any next of kin. Do you know if he had any end of life wishes?” All the air is knocked out of my lungs and I grasp blindly for something to hold me upright.
“I-I’m coming there now.” I croak, dropping my arm to my side. My body shakes as I silently sob.
I hear someone approach but can’t move, lost in my sorrow. “Nova?” A familiar voice calls. I don’t respond, gasping for breath. The sound of hurried footsteps fills the air shortly before strong arms pull me into a hard body. Turning my head, I bury my tear soaked face into my comforter’s chest, not caring who it may be.
I wish West was here.
I cry harder, clinging to the person stroking my back.
After several minutes, I start to feel embarrassed. Extracting myself from their hold, I take a step back, wiping my sleeve across my face as I look up to thank the stranger. The words catch in my throat as I meet a pair of honey brown eyes.
“W-west?”