Mystic Messenger - The Real Story

Chapter 5: Virtual Bonds, Real Decisions

THE NEXT MORNING

Cassidy woke up in the unfamiliar surroundings, which left her momentarily disoriented. She scanned the room with her eyes, and stretched her whole body. The morning light was softly brightening the room. She sat up, her fingers were brushing against the cool bedsheet.

- It was not a dream – she said to herself, taking a deep breath, as she started feeling uncomfortable in someone else's bed.

As she got up and walked into the kitchen, the emptiness echoed around the flat. She opened a few kitchen cabinets, looking for coffee, but they were all empty. The dusty shelves hinted at a place frozen in time, untouched for a year and a half. Giving up her plan, she proceeded to another room.

In the bathroom, Cassidy faced the absence of her usual toiletries, a reminder of her unplanned stay. She sighed, trying to shake off the discomfort.

- How am I supposed to live like that? – she muttered, dissatisfaction visible on her face.

Turning her attention to the bedroom, she looked at a large wardrobe. She opened it to find a lot of colourful dresses, which she understood once belonged to Rika. Their vibrant hues spoke of a past life, a life that had taken a tragic turn. Cassidy hesitated, conflicted by the beauty of the dresses and the gloomy reality they represented.

Tracing the fabric with her fingers, she picked one of the dresses, captivated by its colours. She stood in front of the mirror, pressing the cloth against her own body. She was now holding a knee-length yellow dress. The fabric, a delicate blend of silk and chiffon, with strapless design. She knew it would look perfect on her, however, the weight of its history became too much to bear, and she gently placed it back in the wardrobe. She shifted her focus to her yesterday's clothes, which she decided to wear again, after what she rushed to the entry room.

Just as she was putting her shoes on, she was interrupted by the ringing of her phone. Glancing at the screen, she noticed Seven's caller ID. With a sigh, she accepted the call.

****

- Weren't you supposed to call me if you want to leave? – Seven's voice crackled through the phone, a mix of curiosity and concern evident. – Where are you going?

- Uh.. I just wanted to go to the nearest shop – Cassidy replied with a touch of defensiveness, still adjusting the laces of her shoes. – There's nothing to eat here – she added, feeling the need to explain herself.

- You're not planning on running away, are you? – Seven's response was laced with a hint of amusement. – Don't worry, I can order groceries for you. Just tell me what you need.

Cassidy hesitated for a moment, reluctant to accept such option yet realising her current situation left her with limited options.

- Fine, just order whatever you think is necessary – she said with resignation palpable in her voice. – Now, when will I be able to leave? – Cassidy pressed, eager to regain control over her life.

- As soon as I make sure you're safe. I'll try to be done by today or tomorrow, okay? – Seven assured, attempting to ease her concerns. Fidgeting with the edge of her shirt, Cassidy couldn't help but feel a bit trapped.

- Have you found anything yet? – she inquired, her curiosity mixed with a subtle sense of anxiety. Seven hesitated for a moment, the tapping of keys on his end indicating he was immersed in his work.

- Not yet, but I'm closing in on some leads. It's a tricky situation, and I need time to be thorough – he explained, his tone serious.

- Alright, just do it quickly – Cassidy sighed, understanding the complexity of the situation. – This whole situation feels surreal, and I want my life back – she confessed, a mix of frustration and uncertainty in her voice.