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Refreshed from my shower, I paced the living room gingerly, my robe swinging freely about me. Unable to concentrate, I’d wound up working late. Then the car had died yet again, so I had taken a hot and uncomfortable bus ride home. The ride had taken my mind off things, briefly- but now, back in the apartment, with her clothes nestled next to mine, I couldn’t ignore the situation any longer.
Walk away. I didn’t ask to be resurrected, revived, or anything else. I deserved my normal life back. What had she been thinking? What if I had been able to marry Will, and have the children and life I had planned? Would she have so boldly come knocking at my door, claiming to love me? Expecting me to turn my life upside down for her?
“You’re a selfish girl, Madlax.” I muttered, swatting the blinds. “Did you ever once think about your actions? No wonder your boss didn’t approve.”
I jumped as the phone rang, then stared at it for second. What if it was her…..
“Hello.” I gulped out.
“Vanessa?” Margaret’s voice on the other end sounded worried. “I was just calling to check on you and see how you are feeling.”
“I’m fine. Look, I have company so I can’t talk now.” I lied, not wanting to hear anything else that could upset me. “I really have to go. Goodbye.” I hung up the phone with a tinge of guilt- after all, she was a nice girl, and this mess wasn’t really her fault. But I didn’t need any more of her revelations of my life before, to add to my misery.

I poured the bottle slowly. Just one glass wouldn’t hurt- I would just have a glass and go to bed. I wasn’t going to worry about when she would come home.
“When she’s done.” I took a sip. I thought I heard the door, and my heart did a sudden leap. But I have to get past this. She’ll get past it. She’s just a teenager, like I was with Will. She’ll move on.
I took a deep breath and grabbed another glass. She was definitely coming down the hallway. A little drink for both of us, that will help.
As I turned with both hands full, I realized my robe was open. It’s not like she hasn’t seen me naked before. The thought made me blush a little, and I cursed myself as I felt my nipples harden with excitement.
“Welcome back.” My voice quivered, despite my efforts at composure.
I gasped at the figure in the doorway, dropping my glass and grabbing my side in pain.
“Rimelda!”

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