Should I tell him?
Not tell him?
“Tara!”
Why was I warring with myself over this? Because I was terrified of the wizard.
I need to run.
Need to hide.
I need Hero.
“Goddammit, talk to me!”
Tell him! You want a healthy, meaningful relationship. Open communication is required in a healthy relationship.
“Are you there? Tara!”
Tell him!
Fine! I’ll do it!
“I think my dad sent me a letter and has a woman posing as my sister,” I blurted the words out as fast as I could before I chickened out.
“What? You think?” he yelled. “He sent a letter to your house?”
I winced, removing the device for a couple of seconds, unsure if he’d continue to yell.
When I thought it was safe, I replied, “No. Brad gave me the letter yesterday before you arrived at school to pick me up. I’d forgotten about it. I just have this feeling it’s from him, y’know?”
“Are you still at the school?” There was rustling and background activity on his end. I wasn’t sure what was going on. I focused on his voice, thick with worry. It put me on edge.
“Yes. Madeline should be here to get me soon.”
“What does the letter say?” He sounded on the verge of coming unhinged. It spoke volumes about how much he cared about me. Any other time, under different circumstances, I’d rejoice in it.
“I haven’t opened it yet.”
“Why not?”
“Because I’m afraid.”
“Roja, listen to me, baby. Go to Madeline’s classroom now.”
I scratched the area on my stomach where I’d burned myself. It was healed, mostly. Strangely it started to itch. “He’s not going to do anything in public.”
“Get your shit and go to Madeline’s!”
I cringed at his forceful tone, but I couldn’t fault him for wanting to protect me.
“Fine, I’m going now.” I quickly gathered my things into my tote, including the letter, then grabbed my coat.
Run.
“Good. I didn’t mean to yell at you. We’re boarding the plane. I’m coming, baby.”
Hide.