Shattered Treasure

by Cindy Patterson

  “Okay. I’ll walk with you.” When they reached Nathan’s truck, she removed her sunglasses and Nathan gasped. Harsh sobs swept through her body, the unforgiving ache in her chest, rocking her back and forth.

  “You’re coming with me.”

  As Nathan drove away from the mall, she stared across the parking lot, wishing to wake from a horrid nightmare. But when they reached his apartment, she knew she would never wake from this terrible dream. Everything she had experienced was real and even now her body ached from where she had wrestled with all her might last night.

  Unable to share any details, Addison could only nod as Nathan asked endless questions. Until he figured out what had happened right after Logan dropped her off. How she had lost the battle—how Philip had won.

  29

  Later that night, Addison pulled into her driveway and climbed from her car, relieved, yet unsettled. As hard as she’d tried to convince herself to call Logan, to explain what happened, she knew she couldn’t.

  Logan could never know.

  Taylor wasn’t here and for the first time she was glad she’d have the house to herself for a while. She sprawled across her bed, the many tears she’d cried claiming her once again. A hazy film dimmed her vision and minutes later, sleep prevailed.

  The sound of the doorbell roused her, and she stood clumsily to walk toward the door. “Logan, you’re here.”

  “Oh, Addison, I missed you. Why didn’t you call me? I have been worried sick about you.”

  “I’m sorry. I just didn’t know what to do. I didn’t think you’d understand.”

  “Nathan told me everything. It’s okay, don’t blame him. He was only trying to help.”

  “But now you know we can never be together.”

  He leaned in and brushed his lips across her cheek, her mouth, her neck. “Addison, we can never be apart. I’ll never leave your side. Nothing else matters. It will only be you and me for eternity … eternity … eternity …”

  She could feel his lips, could taste his breath. Darkness invaded the room, as he wrapped his arms around her waist pulling her down beside him, ripping her shirt. The floor felt hard, the sand sticking to her skin.

  “No, don’t. Please stop. You’re hurting me, please.”

  She opened her heavy eyelids, fighting her way to consciousness, and then she saw his face. Philip.

  She shot up, dark shadows covering the room as a shrill scream escaped her lips.

  Monday afternoon, Logan stared into space as he sat on Matt’s couch across from him. “I still haven’t heard from her.”

  “Hey, don’t let it bother you. If something was wrong, she would’ve told you, right? And if she doesn’t want whatever is going on with y’all ... it’s better to find out now, before you get too serious.”

  It was too late for that. But maybe that was it. He had pushed her too far the other night. Let things get way out of hand. And then left her standing there like she had done something wrong—like it was her fault.

  “It doesn’t make sense though. I thought she was really into you.”

  “Me too.” Logan leaned back.

  “I mean, if she didn’t want to see you anymore, why would she stop by the station?”

  Matt’s question jerked Logan forward. “The station? Addison came to the station? When?”

  “The other day.”

  This new revelation helped Logan stuff unpleasant thoughts of this being his fault to a lower level. “Which day?”

  “The Friday after we came back from Indiana. It was weird though.”

  “What do you mean? What did she say?”

  “She said she hadn’t heard from you. Which was weird for her to come by if she didn’t even know you were back.”

  Those unpleasant thoughts were creeping back to the surface. Why hadn’t he called her? It was a foolish assumption to wait a whole day before contacting her. What if that combined with his reckless display of emotions the other night scared her off?

  “She was acting different.”

  “Like how?”

  “I don’t know exactly. She just acted nervous. Like she was really surprised to see me there. Which was weird ’cause she knows we work together,” he added for clarification. “Did she not tell you?”

  “No, she didn’t.” Clearly, he had missed something. Nothing Matt said was making any sense. “What was she doing there?”

  “You think something’s wrong?”

  “I don’t know. She won’t return my calls, and she didn’t show up for work last night. Why didn’t she say anything about stopping by the station?”

  “I’m sure she’ll have a good explanation. It’s only been two days. And if it doesn’t work out with her, there are other girls out there.”

  Wrong. There is only one girl for me.

  As Logan drove away from Matt’s house, the last night, the last week he’d spent with her replayed through his brain until he thought he’d scream.

  Addison reached for her phone in the dark room, reeling inside. The dream was so real, so vivid, she could still feel Philip’s fingers lingering on her. She wanted Logan. She needed to see him.

  Unlocking the phone, she searched for his name, eager to hear his voice. She read the two messages he’d sent earlier.

  Hey, I was just thinking of you. Logan

  Hey, I was getting worried. I hope everything’s okay. Call me. Logan

  Gripping the direct passageway to Logan in her palm, she turned the power off and leaned against the bed frame.

  I can’t call him.

  She couldn’t bear it if Logan called again. She wouldn’t be able to stop herself from answering this time.

  Tuesday morning brought a mixture of relief and regret. Addison was glad to be released from the relentless nightmares haunting her sleep, though now she was faced with reality. Forcing herself from the bed, she walked into the kitchen still wearing her pajamas.

  Taylor stood against the counter pouring a cup of coffee. “Hey, it’s about time. I’ve been worried sick about you. How was your visit with your mom?”

  “She was busy.”

  “What? But I thought your note said … ” Taylor gasped when she glanced at her. “What’s wrong?”

  “It’s a long story. I really don’t feel up to talking about it right now. Is there any more coffee?”

  Taylor poured another cup. “Did something happen with Logan? He’s been trying to reach you. He said he hadn’t heard from you. I tried calling you too.”

  “Yeah, I know.”

  “So, you talked to him?”

  She forced a fake smile, her tears threatening to escape. “No.”

  “Did something happen between you two? He seemed really anxious to talk to you.”

  The thought of him ripped through her heart. She studied the countertops as she moved in slow motion.

  “He has come by here every day.”

  Addison snatched her coffee, spilling some on the counter. “He came here?” She tried to keep the eagerness from her voice, but it was unsuccessful.

  “Why are you so surprised?”

  Addison stared across the room at her best friend. She should tell her the truth. She sat down at the kitchen table across from Taylor. “I’m not surprised. I just can’t see him anymore.”

  Taylor grabbed her arms. “What? What’re you talking about? You’re in love with that boy. What happened?”

  There was a soft tapping at the front door. Addison froze. “I’m not here.”

  “But your car’s out there? I can’t keep putting him off. He knows you’re here.”

  Addison scrambled out of her chair and rushed to her room. “I can’t see him, Taylor. I’m not here, no matter who it is.”

  Once safely hidden in her bedroom, Addison peeked through the window. It was Logan. Taking a moment to catch her breath, she slid down against the door frame, sobs wracking her body.

  Logan paced back and forth on Addison’s front porch, his determination to see her unsettling h
im. He needed answers. Was she with Philip right now? No, he didn’t believe that. He wouldn’t. Not until he spoke with her. But why hadn’t she responded to his messages, his calls?

  Taking several slow deep breaths, he knocked on the door. Taylor opened the door, stepping onto the front step before he had a chance to knock again.

  “She’s not here.”

  Logan glanced at her car before peering around Taylor through the living room. She pulled the door closed. “Her car’s here. I have to see her, Taylor.”

  “What happened?” A note of contempt rang through her voice.

  His eyes darted around her. He looked through the window. “What do you mean?”

  “The other night? Why is she so upset?” Taylor glared at him. “Her eyes are almost swollen shut.”

  “What?” His stomach tensed, his pulse spiking. “She’s here?” He reached for the door. “I need to see her.”

  “No, she doesn’t want to see you.”

  “I don’t understand.”

  “Me either. All I know is she’s stayed locked up in her room since Saturday night. I thought she was sick. But that wasn’t it. Something’s wrong and it all points to you.”

  His pulse quickened. “Has she been with Philip any this weekend?”

  Her nose crinkled, but he didn’t miss the flash of uncertainty. “Philip?” Taylor rolled her eyes and started to close the door.

  “Wait, please, Taylor? I have to see her.”

  “She doesn’t want to see you.” Taylor slammed the door. Logan stared at the door, dumbfounded.

  Addison woke still curled in a ball, lying on the floor in front of her door. Her body ached as she pulled herself into a sitting position. She stood, dizziness sweeping through her. After taking a few moments to gather her strength, she moved toward the bed and turned on her lamp.

  She stumbled through the darkened house, toward the kitchen, her throat burning with thirst. A note attached to the refrigerator caught her attention.

  Had to go to work, we’ll talk later if you’re awake when I get home. If not, definitely tomorrow. Call me if you need anything!! Taylor

  Queasiness rippled through her chest as she recalled Taylor’s conversation with Logan. She couldn’t bear to let him believe this had anything to do with him. But what did it matter? She needed to let Logan go.

  Addison looked through the window, her reflection staring back at her. There was a part of her that would’ve given into Logan that night. The same night everything had been stolen from her. If Philip hadn’t witnessed that moment she lost herself with Logan, something she had never allowed with Philip, maybe none of this would’ve happened.

  Logan deserved better than her—better than this.

  Feeling like she was suffocating, Addison stepped outside the back door to get some fresh air. The sun had already descended from the sky and the moon was hidden behind thick, dark clouds. Memories of her night dancing with Logan then standing by the seaside, his hand in hers, brought on a fresh wave of tears. The beauty of that night was forever ruined. Too afraid to walk any closer, she sat on the edge of her porch and buried her face in her hands, her tears flowing freely from all she’d lost.

  She screamed when warm hands grasped her bare shoulders.

  30

  Logan stumbled back in shock at the shrill cry that escaped Addison’s lips. Her arms flailed wildly at him and he grabbed them in an attempt to calm her.

  “No, please, no,” she repeated over and over, her voice rasping in terror.

  “Addison, it’s okay, it’s just me.”

  “Logan?”

  The instant change in her expression alarmed him. The dark sky hid her face, but her tears sparkled against the light from the kitchen window.

  “What are you doing here? You scared me to death.” A wave of relief leaked into her voice.

  “I’m sorry. I came by earlier, but Taylor wouldn’t let me see you.”

  Her brow furrowed as she scooted over.

  He took the space next to her, but she stood, walking toward the door.

  “What’s wrong?” He drew a breath through his constricted throat. “I’ve been trying to call.”

  “I … I had to go out of town.”

  “I know. Taylor told me you were visiting your mom.” He stood and walked toward her.

  She stumbled back, putting distance between them.

  “Did something happen?”

  Her eyes softened, filling with fresh tears. “I ...” Her voice broke and she cleared her throat. “I’ve just got a lot going on right now.”

  He took a step closer with slow deliberation. “Did I do something?” He came to a stop, leaving only inches between them.

  “No.”

  He took her hand, the soft feel of her skin tormenting him. Her eyes fell to their hands intertwined and a rush of sobs erupted from her. Pulling her against his chest, he held her tight. With each moment that passed, the more vigorously she held to him. She trembled against him and his mind raced. Something had happened, but what?

  “I’m so sorry.” Slowly, she pulled away from him, wiping at her eyes.

  “Addison, please tell me what’s going on.”

  She took a step back and straightened, but she said nothing.

  Desperation to end her pain gripped him. “Will you walk with me?”

  “I can’t.” She glanced toward the ocean beyond the yard, her expression torn. “It would be better if you just left. I’m so sorry.”

  Her words took a moment to register. His knees buckled and he grabbed the rail to support his weight. “What?”

  She kept her gaze averted, the pain in her eyes evident.

  “Look at me.”

  She lifted her chin to meet his gaze and he cupped her face in his hands. “Addison, please? Tell me what’s going on.”

  “You are such a nice guy. I have enjoyed spending time with you, but I only want to be friends.”

  She gazed at him, the violet blue revealing a spark of affection. He couldn’t look away as the depth of her stare drew him to her, and his body shifted closer.

  He couldn’t believe it—he wouldn’t.

  Leaning forward, his eyes fell to her parted mouth. His lips pressed against hers, and he savored the taste of her mouth. She responded to his kiss, with a desperation he hadn’t felt before. It couldn’t be over. He held her, and in that embrace, he felt everything they had meant to each other, the unspoken love leaving his body aching with defeat.

  He wasn’t sure how long they stood there. Those three words were on the tip of his tongue, but before he could speak, she escaped his embrace and stepped through the back door.

  “Bye, Logan. I’m sorry,” she whispered, her eyes spilling over with fresh tears as she closed the door behind her.

  In shock, he stared at the door, willing her to open it. To come back to him—to explain what had happened. A few minutes passed before he took the few steps to his truck parked across the street. His hands trembling, he dropped his keys and it produced a chinking sound against the concrete driveway. He glanced back at her house. The curtain was pulled away from the window and a soft light glimmered, beckoning him to return. But then seconds later, the curtain fell back into place.

  Oh, Addison, what happened? Logan climbed into his truck, his hope crushed.

  Two weeks later, Addison stared at the ocean from the safety of her back porch. The beauty that had once led her to the body of water now stretched in front of her like a looming, shadowy landscape that only produced frightening memories.

  As ridiculous as it was, Addison hoped Logan would show up again, demand that he would never let her go, never let anyone hurt her ever again, and love her for all eternity. But she got exactly what she’d asked for even though that last kiss had changed everything, and she wanted to take it all back.

  But it was too late.

  She no longer had any faith that he would return. Not now. Not after weeks had already crept by without hearing a word from him.
r />   “Addison?”

  A frightened wail squeaked from her throat. Logan’s sister rounded the corner of her house. “Ami, what are you doing here?”

  Ami stepped onto the porch. “I came to see you. I thought about calling first, but I was scared you would tell me not to come.”

  Seeing Ami was like a breath of fresh air. On impulse Addison rushed to her, wrapping her arms around her. “Are you crazy? I would never tell you not to come. It’s so good to see you.”

  “How are you?”

  “I’m good.” Addison forced a smile. “I’ve missed you so much. Do you want to come in?”

  “Of course, I do.”

  They spent the next hour talking around everything that had anything to do with Logan. At least Ami wasn’t upset with her. If Nathan had told Logan, she would know by now, unless Logan blamed her.

  She shook the disturbing thought free. Nathan promised to never tell anyone. And she’d only told Taylor a few details. Enough to settle her curiosity.

  On Ami’s departure, Addison observed too late that she had promised Ami that she would stop by her house soon. She missed Ami’s family.

  She missed Logan.

  Logan drove through the neighborhood for the twentieth time, making sure there was no one lurking around.

  “You’ve covered every inch of this area. And driven by her house enough already. She’s sleeping. Take another route,” Matt said, typing something into the computer, “before you get pulled from this zone.”

  Logan stared straight ahead. “I can’t. I have to make sure she’s all right.”

  “Why don’t you take tomorrow off and do something for yourself for a change?”