NEW CITY

Chapter 4

Scarlett pov

"I'd prefer a real drink, not this bubbly stuff," I told the bartender, my tone firm. Just then, a gruff voice beside me spoke up, "Scarlett is your go-to, what's with the rejection?" I felt a sudden itch in my throat, urging me to lash out, but instead, a loud, uncharacteristic belch escaped my lips, filling the room and drawing curious glances from nearby patrons. "Excuse me," I said calmly, my voice laced with genuine apology.

"Ah, we're used to that from you!" someone in the crowd quipped, prompting a burst of laughter at my expense. I shot back, "Yeah, that's because I'm an ass!" - a retort that only seemed to amuse them further. Realizing I'd said too much, I hastily grabbed my jacket from the bartender's counter and made a swift exit, slamming the wooden door behind me. The door's cheerful Christmas bell above it seemed jarringly out of place as I emerged into the bright sunlight, which hit me like a slap in the face.

"City bound?" the Uber driver asked, pulling up in front of me with a calm smile, his hands gesturing invitingly. I raised an eyebrow, amused, as I lit up with a smile. "Not today, thanks for the offer, though," I replied with a chuckle, my tone polite but firm.

As the driver prepared to leave, I called out to him, squinting sideways to avoid the direct sunlight. "Yes, miss?" he asked, leaning forward to face me. "What does 'city bound' mean?" I inquired, revealing my newness to the city. 

"I'm looking for a unique place to stay and start small. I don't have much to offer, to be honest." I trailed off, lost in thought, as a mix of emotions churned in my stomach. The driver's question snapped me back to reality. "Are you still going, miss?"

"Yes, I am," I stammered, quickly sliding into the car. I let out a deep sigh, leaning back into the seat, as the weight of my exhaustion finally lifted, bringing a sense of relief that coursed down my spine.

 My thoughts drifted to my son, Henry, and I couldn't help but wish for him to have a better life with Elena, my friend. My eyes remained closed for a while as the driver navigated the roads, the motion of the car lulling me into a state of semi-consciousness. A soft hum escaped my lips, a testament to just how tired and worn out I was.

The driver's voice broke the silence. “Are you okay, Miss? You've been quiet for a while.”

I opened my eyes, taking a deep breath, “yeah, I am fine. Just tired. It's been a long day”

"Long day, huh?" he repeated, nodding sympathetically. "Well, we're getting close to the city center. What kind of place are you looking for? I know some decent spots."

I sat up straighter, interest piqued, "Decent spots? What kind of spots?"

The driver smiled, "Well, I know a few hidden gems. Affordable, safe, and close to amenities. I can drop you off at one of them if you'd like."

I hesitated for a moment before nodding, "That would be great, thank you."

As we approached the city center, the driver pointed out a few options, describing the pros and cons of each. I listened intently, weighing my choices.

Finally, he pulled up in front of a small, cozy-looking apartment complex. "This one's my top recommendation. The owner's a friend of mine, and she's a great person. I can introduce you if you'd like."

Hmm, I sighed, nodding to his assumption, are you sure, because I wouldn't want an expensive apartment that I would be thrown out later after a little outburst, I stated, gazing around in admiration of the flourishing street, filled with streets light on each lane. 

"No, they're good people, I'll make sure you're safe," he said, before turning to leave. But I suddenly felt a surge of anger and frustration. "You're just going to leave me here to fend for myself in an unfamiliar place?" I exclaimed, slamming my fist onto the car's roof. "Are you kidding me?" I shouted, rolling up my sleeves as if preparing for a confrontation.

He took a step back, hands raised in a calming gesture. "Whoa, easy does it, Miss! I just need to park my car over there," he said, pointing to a nearby parking lot. I took a deep breath, composing myself and clearing my throat.

 "I'm sorry, I can help you with that," I offered, batting my eyelashes playfully and peering at him through my glasses. I couldn't read his thoughts, but he seemed hesitant. "Fine," he muttered finally, tossing the keys to me.

I caught the keys mid-air, feeling a sense of excitement and trepidation. "Thanks for the vote of confidence," I said with a smile, trying to break the ice.

He nodded curtly, still looking a bit wary. "Just be careful with my car, okay?"

I held up the keys like a promise. "So, what's the plan?"

He hesitated, then gestured towards the parking lot. "Just park it in one of the empty spots. I'll take care of the rest."

I nodded, feeling a sense of responsibility wash over me. "Got it. And thanks again for the help."

As I turned to leave, he called out, "Hey, Miss?"

I turned back, questioning. "Yeah?"

"My name's Nyx, by the way."

"Save it," I muttered gruffly, returning minutes later to find Max waiting for me with a smile. I approached him, my expression skeptical. "What's so amusing? Are you some kind of ritualist? Why are you helping me?" I asked, my voice low and even.

He didn't respond, instead walking towards the white decorative door and reaching out to ring the bell. I watched his hand hover over the bell, my curiosity piqued.

The door swung open, and I was taken aback, my jaw dropping in astonishment at the person standing before me. "Elena?" I exclaimed, my voice trembling with shock. "How is this possible? What are you doing here?"