"So how about it? I'll be with you soon and I saved up to spoil you in your favorite restaurant. We can discuss it over dinner."

"It's okay Matty, you don't have to pay for everything. You're probably already paying a fortune to come to me, haha."

"You are right, but I insist, I'll do it and you can't stop me, Jessica."

"Ughh, fine. Whatever you say. I'll see you soon."

I closed the line and put my phone aside. Matthew is coming later this evening to visit me again. How long has it been since the last time? I think like, three months. Three months...since it all happened.

I don't want to ruin the day thinking about it, but no matter what, it still haunts me, losing three people I considered friends because of a murderer and a kidnapper who managed to get away to this day...

It even takes a considerable amount of effort to say this happened shortly before me and Matthew became official without barfing. Then again, as Matthew put it, life deals you a weird set of hands sometimes.

A while into our relationship and the possibility of him moving in with me popped up. We both like the idea, and there are no problems because Matty works from home. We just gotta finalize the decision.

Now I should get ready for tonight. It's already getting dark and Matty is gonna get here any minute now. Thankfully, I already have the dress ready, and it is one that I'm sure he likes because he told me.... even though that still brings a bad memory to mind: Dan.

I honestly didn't want to say anything about us in front of him, especially after I caused that car accident he had because I stood him up. When he found out eventually, he predictably became bitter. I felt so bad, but Matthew told me he was gonna talk to him and he did, but for some reason, he became even more bitter and even Matty told me he doesn't know why.

I can't remember the last time we talked either. I tried to visit him every once in a while after work but never found him. I don't blame him for avoiding me, to be honest.

Finally shaking the bad memories out of my head, I went to get ready for my date. That's when I received a phone call.

"Hey gorgeous, I'm just about to reach Duskwood. I hope you're ready to have the time of your life."

I giggled. "With you, I can do that everyday."

"Hey, you actually know how to flirt! Keep it up when I show up in person, eh?"

"You underestimate me, Mr. Anderson."

"Right. We'll see about that. Catch you in a few."

Just as Matty ended the call, I heard the notification sound for a message. I looked at it and saw it:

Long time no talk.

I raised my eyebrow and opened it up. And I saw a familiar profile picture. Eyes widening in surprise, I typed back.

Jake?!

After everything that happened, Jake completely vanished. I didn't even think he was alive after everything.

Hello, Jessica.

Ugh, even after all this time, he didn't change.

Ugh, how many times have I told you not to call me that?

Only Matty is allowed to do that now.

It doesn't matter. I need to talk to you. We're running out of time.

What is he on about?

What? What happened?