47Charles sat on his couch, glaring at the suitcase in front of him. His heart hadn't settled down since he'd called Kate and told her the truth. Well, part of it anyway, he thought. At least this way she wouldn't be as hurt. And at least this way he would remain in her memory as just an innocent boyfriend rather than a heartless murderer. That is if he managed to evade the FBI. He got up and threw his notebook in his suitcase and then closed it. He flopped back down on the couch one more time. Kate's scent rose upon impact. Charles let his head fall into his hands and exhaled deeply.
Charles jerked as the phone rang for the second time that day. He glanced at the caller ID, to make sure the caller wasn't Kate. It was. He sighed and sat down in an office chair near the ringing phone and waited for her to give up.
"Hello, you've reached 773-537-5309. Please leave a message at the tone and I'd love to get back to you."
A tone sounded. Kate's voice came over, sounding somewhat calm, "Charles, it's Kate. I. . .I don't understand. Please tell me what's wrong, please, tell me what about us is hard for you. Are you afraid? Afraid of a relationship? Afraid someone will get hurt? If that's the case, then we can work it out. You can't just hide away from it, you have to learn from experience. Whatever doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. Or do you not like me? Please tell me Charles," she started to lose it. Charles could almost hear the tears in her voice, "I don't want you to go, Charles," she paused and sniffled. The pause ensued and Charles returned his head to his hands as he listened to her sobs that followed, each one more desperate than the last, "I love you, Charles." The tone sounded again and the voice was gone.
Charles got up and rubbed his eyes, letting out another sigh. He picked up the suitcase and left his apartment.