An Unexpected Gift

I reluctantly rolled out of my angel’s arms and slid off of the bed.

“Where are you going?” Edward asked.

I sighed as I pulled off the pants I had fallen asleep in. “Well, you said it yourself. I have to go see Charlie.”

He stared at my body in wonder. I promptly turned crimson and quickly pulled on another pair of underwear and a fresh pair of jeans. “Stop looking at me like that.” I rolled my eyes.

“I’m sorry.” He said, shaking his head. “You’re just so beautiful. Now, I understand you are going to visit Charlie? Would you like me to accompany you?”

I was startled at the sudden subject change. “No.” I said firmly. “This is something I have to do on my own.”

He smirked. “Suit yourself.” He picked up my worn copy of WutheringHeights. “I swear, I’m going to have to get you a new one of these…” he muttered.

I ignored his comment as I pulled on a blue shirt and grabbed the keys to Edward’s Volvo. My trusty truck had broken down about a month ago, and I refused to let Edward purchase me a new car.

“Bye, Edward.” I said as I turned the doorknob. “Wish me luck.”

He darted over to me at a less-than-human speed and grabbed me by the waist. I was immediately drawn into a deep kiss, then pulled back out again in less than an instant, much to my dismay.

“Luck.” He whispered in my ear.

***

I pulled up into Charlie’s driveway in the Volvo and stopped the car, eyeing the house’s front door warily. I opened the car door and stepped out.

I approached the front door and freed the key of its hiding spot, then opened the door of my old home. “Dad?” I called. I received no reply.

“Dad?” I called once again. I shut the door behind me and stepped further into the house. Something was not right.

A scream pierced the air. My breath caught in my throat.

“Ch-charlie?” I raised my voice, and abandoned the formalities. The panic that had struck my voice was high and clear.

I made my way to the living room. Due to my peripheral vision, I suddenly saw a streaky blur.

Finally, finally, I breathed a sigh of relief as I heard the television blaring, and saw Charlie sitting on the couch, no moving, not screaming, not doing anything, really.

He’s just watching a game, no big deal. I thought, breathing easy once again.

I entered the living room and plopped down next to Charlie on the couch. Apparently, my weight set something off.

Charlie slumped to the floor.

Suddenly, a strangled cry erupted from somewhere. I realized that it was from me.

Terrified, I placed my hand on Charlie’s wrist, and instantly, I drew back.

Charlie was cold to the touch.

As soon as my warm skin came in contact with his own, one of Charlie’s eyes flew open.

I gasped.

It was blood red.