Visible through Darkness

He opened his mouth. Jade raced to him, ramming her fist into his jaw. He had used her. Who did he think she was? He didn’t give her the satisfaction of falling or even looking like she had hurt him. Jade didn’t care how many punches it took. He’d feel everything he put her through. He caught her fist, pulling her closer. He slanted his lips over hers. 

Jade pressed her lips tighter and ground her teeth. Her left hand was free— so were her legs. Why couldn’t she bring herself to beat the blood out of him? He deserved it. 

He released Jade’s hand and put his on her cheeks. He opened his mouth against hers. His darkness consumed her. He pulled away.

“Jade, I’ve been trying to get your attention.” 

How did he know her name? Her head was swelling and deflating at the same time. She held onto him to steady herself. It didn’t help.

Someone other than herself spoke her name. Her anger slid through her fingers. She needed to hold onto it. She couldn’t. His eyes showed regret. Jade hadn’t seen genuine remorse since Mom and Dad died.

“Who are you and why did you call me?” Jade asked.

His face dropped. Twitching his mouth, his expression became blank again.  

“I’m Serin. I called you because I needed your help. I was trapped here.”

His voice came out grainy. His words and tone could smooth the sharp edges off rocks.

That name meant something to her. Why couldn’t she remember?

“What now?” she asked

He stretched his arms over his head. “You didn’t destroy the monster, but you were able to break his hold on this place. I can leave now, with you.”

Jade stepped back. No.

“I’m going to follow you until you give in.”

He could try.

“Can you at least explain what’s going on,” Jade said.

That dead face just stared at her.

“You aren’t going to say, I’ll answer all your questions once we get home.”

He shrugged.