Lost and Found

Laser Tag

**I apologize for the delay in bringing you guys this chapter. Sincerely, I apologize. But it's here! And hopefully, it will be worth the wait. Now, be warned. There's some steam in this chapter, so if that's something you don't want to read, I would suggest to skim. ;) Also, HAPPY PRIDE MONTH <3 Sending lots of love to all your beautiful human beings out there. Enjoy 7,400+ words**

I looked ridiculous.

Staring at my reflection in the porcelain flower mirror, I nibbled my bottom lip until it turned red and swollen. Dragging my palms down the front of my faded pink, long-sleeved tee, I wondered—not for the first time—if I should find an excuse not to go.

As Saturday had drawn nearer, I wasn't able to help my anxiety from messing with my thoughts. Corey said I could cancel, and I actually believed him that he wouldn't be offended if I did. So, if I knew he wouldn't blame me, why hadn't I cancelled?

With that question in mind, I grabbed my worn jacket and purse and left Dr. Roberts's grand condo.

It had been awkward at first, staying in such a nice place. I knew I didn't belong there, and it almost felt like living in a museum. Art of all kinds embellished the walls and surfaces of the condo. Paintings, all by the same artist, were hung in each room. I guessed the painter was either Phil or Martha's favorite.

Besides paintings, there were grand and small statues and pottery pieces placed about the rooms. Some reminded me of those from ancient Greece while others appeared more modern. Each day, I discovered something new about the place.

And while there wasn't much for me to clean or take care of, I did the best I could. I followed the watering schedule Martha had left for me about the plants, I dusted the already clean surfaces, and I vacuumed the spotless carpet. It helped that I had grown up being a tidy person. When you're stuck inside all the time, not allowed to leave your house and phoneless, you found ways to pass the time.

Karen and I texted throughout the day, or I guess I should say, I texted while she sent me meme after meme. I enjoyed them, though. They never failed to make me giggle.

But Saturday had arrived too soon, and I wasn't ready to face my mistake of agreeing to spend time with the Tomas.

The whole way to the arcade, my mind argued with itself. I didn't have a logical reason as to why I didn't cancel. On one hand, I knew the Tomas were a gang. As in, each and every one of them—including sweet Corey—most likely had blood on their hands. But... didn't I?

And while they were dangerous, the Tomas hadn't threatened me like the Blackbournes had.

Ignoring my conscience insisting that just because they hadn't threatened or hurt me still didn't mean they were good people, I hopped off the bus, and headed in the direction of the arcade Corey had told me about.

Besides, I was almost there. It was too late for me to cancel now.

Liar.

Holding my breath as I approached the arcade, I entered the building.

Buzzers sang through the air, and kids dashed from game to game with carefree exuberance. Sneaking a peek around, I didn't see Corey or any other Tomas. I must have arrived first.

Heading to the counter, I decided to wait until the others showed up before paying an entry fee. If they didn't come, I didn't want to waste the money.

As if reading my thoughts, the door chimed.

"Sang!"

At the sound of Corey's cheerful voice, I glanced up from the prize counter. I smiled. "Hey."