Dreadful Desire

Chapter 82

Christmas Eve

Given Axle's empathy, he intended not to move forward with pressing charges, Katherine's termination was sufficient. To his astonishment, upon informing her of his decision, her number was disconnected, and she vacated her apartment. I surmised she did have something to live for.  

Some people are just not worthy of such benevolence. Absconding before the verdict displayed her disregard for Axle's generosity. I won't allow such actions ruin today. It's Christmas Eve now is the time for celebration and family. Per usual Axle is hosting while I assist.

Nerves have been on edge lately. That odd feeling of being surveilled has flooded my senses. Am I insane? Is someone observing my every move?

"Chloe, hand me the salt please?"

Axle tugs me from my demented ramblings when the bell goes off, alerting us some of the guests have arrived. Fleeing to answer, I'm greeted by Shelly's glamorous scarlet hair, sparkling emerald iris' and bedazzling smile. Twisting to face me, "Hey Chlo!"

Hey Shell," we embrace when Eric comes into view accompanied by Amanda and Jade.

Exchanging niceties, I usher them inside, storing their coats in the closet.  Filing into the living room, I settle next to Amanda, "Hey, it's been forever since we last spoke. How are you? How's school coming along?"

"I'm good but I couldn't concentrate on school with everything going on so I took some time off. I'm hoping next semester I can start up again."

The search for her mother. I've texted, called, left voicemails, but she's been unreachable, determined to accomplish this on her own.

"You know, I'm here for you. I'll always be here for you. We all will. Just say the word."

Enclosing my hand with hers, "I know but I can do this on my own." The edges of her lips curled but there was sadness hidden with in them.

The bell rings again ending our conversation. Heading towards the door, my mind races if Amanda requires a friend now more than ever.

Elijah stands before me with Cheshire grin exposing his dimples, a bottle of wine in his hands, but ...no Avery.

Hugging I inquire, "Avery?"

Casting his eyes to the floor, "No, we had another fight."

"I'm so sorry Eli, hopefully one day we all gather and have a phenomenal time. Let him know I'm dying to meet him."

"Hopefully." He scan my physique, "Let me just say, YOU ARE FIRE in that dress!"

Twirling to give him the full view, I stop and pose, "You think?"

"I know! Come here!" He embraces me with a warmth I've never felt from him before. Escorting him to the living room, he's greeting by all while I transport the wine to the kitchen to open and serve.

Displaying the bottle in my hands, "From Eli."

Slicing his eye, "He's here?"

"Yes," I say with a matter of fact attitude. Axle brands me with the look of death as I top off wine glasses. "There's been turbulence with Avery. Another fight in the books." 

"My belief is Avery is a fictional character at this point just to earn your empathy."

"Axle please, not everybody in the world harbor's devious intentions." Shaking my head, I stroll into the living room where everyone's engaged in delightful conversation, delivering wine. 

The bell chimes again, rushing to open the door, it's Jordan and Sharon. Welcoming them into Axles home, I offer wine as they veer towards the living room.  Returning with brimmed wine glasses, I lock eyes with Jordan motioning her to tail me. Excusing herself she follows suit.