Michelle Leigh Writes- Short Story Series Collection

Hey guys, I know it’s been a while since I last posted consistently and on schedule. But I’ve been trying to think of something really cool to post and everything I think of just falls flat. But I recently had a cool idea. I’ve featured quite a few Short Story Series on this blog and I thought I’d do one big post including little summaries of each and the links to read them! In case you feel like diving into some dramatic love stories. So please, read at your leisure. 🙂

Mysterious Attraction (12 Chapters-3 parts each)

mysterious attraction postermovie poster new

Start the series from the beginning- HERE

Summary: Lexie is a power house, a femme fatale with a rather dangerous job description. She is soon forced to balance her need for control with her ever cryptic view on love and happiness. As an overly intense affair comes to light with a handsome yet kind man named Carter. Their attraction and pull strong. Lexie is forced to face some harsh realities about who she is and what she really wants her life to be. Her feelings are growing and it isn’t something she expected. Falling from lust to love with a married man was not part of her plan. What scares her even more…he’s falling back.

A Broken Heart For Christmas (6 Chapters)

broken heart for christmas

Lucy and dean 3

Start the series from the beginning- HERE

Summary: Dean Sanders broke Lucy Michaelson’s heart years ago back in their home town of Oakland Valley, Minnesota. And since then she’s moved on- moved to New York, started her dream career. And so has he, or so they both thought. Everyone knew their story, knew their love was lost. But little does everyone know…there was always more to their story, more than Lucy ever let on. Follow their journey through awkward run ins and past memories- both good and bad. 

Love Conflicted (12 Chapters)

Official full cast photo movie posterLove conflicted new poster

Start the series from the beginning- HERE

Summary: Maggie is the crisp, clean, girl next door. Always playing it safe, always doing the right thing, risk is not a word she would use in her everyday vocabulary. But when she falls in love with Ricky- a man in the mob, she realizes that life is not always black and white. As danger creeps in, emotions heighten in this thrilling, yet sweet love story.

On The Run (10 Chapters)

ontherunposterNew poster

Start the series from the beginning- HERE

Summary: When Sage Renly finds herself running for her life, a mysterious stranger shows up in just the nick of time- Charlie Steinfeld. He becomes her ally and confident against her better judgement. It seems like their connection is unexplainable-almost as if it’s out of their hands.  This is more than your typical two strangers finding each other by chance and falling in love, story. There are dark secrets hidden in the eyes of these characters, and as every mystery goes- there’s always more than what meets the eye.

*Welcome Home (9 Chapters)

Poster 1Cast poster

Start the series from the beginning- HERE

Summary: Melanie Evans was so close to having it all, and then tragedy struck. Something that years later she still can’t overcome. There is only one person in the world who can help, who can understand her-Oliver King, her college sweetheart. And yet he is miles away- both literally and figuratively. When Melanie returns to her hometown, old memories stir up old feelings. So many different feelings. Will she be able to get out of her own way to achieve the happiness she’s dreamed of all along? Or will she stay in isolation and despair unable to let go of her painful past.

********

Also I am attempting to dive into a new short story series….I’m still working on the title (I have a bunch of variations that I can’t decide on) but here’s a quick little sneak peek at the summary-

Liam Whitmore is a wealthy business executive who goes through the motions of working in his corporate world day after lousy day, making deals and kicking ass at it. However he often feels uninspired, and unable to do what he really loves. Until one day he meets a younger woman named Aria Lenz, struggling to become a dancer. Her simplistic yet driven nature strikes up a spark of inspiration in him, and he makes it his mission to get to know her. Little does he know, it’ll be the hardest “transaction” he’s ever had to make. They’re worlds apart- will he finally get through to her, or will his fire fizzle?

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edits.*

*All short stories are of my own written content.*

-<3-

 

 

 

2016 Memory Jar Review

First off, HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS!!!!!!

I cannot believe it is already 2017.

 

img_1114

My camera year is wrong…should say 2016, ignore that mishap. :/

 

As I sat down on New Year’s Eve to sift through my memory jar- a bandwagon that I finally hopped on two years ago- I was amazed at how little I felt like I did, because of how quickly I felt the year had flown by. It was a blur for me. But as I dove into these colored pieces of paper, the many memories came flooding back….and a lot actually happened. It’s so easy for us to get wrapped up in the holiday bit at the end of the year, that we forget all the memories we made throughout the year.

So here are some of my most favorite memories- (in no particular order!)

 

*My 2016 Highlights*

 

Took my god daughter to see Trolls- “Sophie’s big girl movie date”- Trolls, went to a diner, and saw the Christmas Lights with my family.

 

Had a little Walking Dead Season 7 Premiere Party but… RIP Glenn still heartbroken: / haven’t watched an episode since then, but my party looked awesome. Read my post HERE!

twd-viewing-party

Celebrated my grandmother’s 83rd birthday with a whole bunch of family.

grandma-bday

I made a few job changes and had to bounce around a bit, which was a bit difficult but finally found a place where I am happy for now, it was for the better- I’m building a work family and have made some great friends. Read my post on “adulting” HERE!

Finished two short story series-On The Run & Love Conflicted (-premiered in 2015 but carried over into 2016)

Official full cast photo movie poster

Started a brand new series- Welcome Home (-first chapter premiered in 2016, rest will be continued in 2017)

poster-1

 

My best friend Roe got engaged!!!!

roe-got-engaged

Went on a massive family trip to Great Wolf Lodge and had a blast! (vlog will eventually get edited!)-Read my post HERE!

great-wolf-lodge

Why does my camera have the wrong year? How do I fix that?

Sophia Bush retweeted my tweet and my phone blew up….

sophia-bush-retweets

My brother got married and he and his wife bought a house.

r-and-l-wedding

I entered one of my scripts into a writing contest! (although nothing came of it, it was a huge leap that I took, and I was really proud of myself for facing that fear.)

I got free movie passes for covering a story in my local theater, my best friend Jenny and I saw Finding Dory in 3D…because why not?

I’ve realized that I can overcome my anxiety on my own, but the help that I have received has been a gift I will continue to utilize.

My best friend and I finally saw Bethany Joy Lenz in concert and WE MET HER! #LifeGoal –Read my post HERE!

bethany-joy-lenz

Fuller House seasons 1& 2 are killin’ the game #NetflixIsDangerous

fuller-house

I went for bridesmaid’s dresses for my friend Jenny’s wedding-I was asked to be her maid of honor last year.

bridesmaids-dresses

I went on The Polar Express with my god daughter and other family members. (vlog will eventually get edited!)

polar-express

I worked for a summer camp, and my kids made some really great story books for my creative writing class.

nia-summer-camp

I hosted a Gilmore girls: A Year in the Life- Netflix revival….viewing party- Read my post HERE!

gg

I got a vlog up on my YouTube channel, and have been vlogging more, but editing has been a slow process. I WILL GET THERE!

I finally got to pretend to be a YouTube vlogger and did a Mini “Vlogmas” from Dec. 23-Dec. 31 into 2017 (Stay Tuned!)

My brother and I started to shoot the first installment of our zombie short, but it got halted because…. #WeddingCraziness #BridalShowerCraziness

20160418_201953

michelleleighwrites turned 3!!!!!!! Read my post HERE! (It’s turning 4 in a WEEK!!!!!!)

mlw-3

 Justin Timberlake released new music & a video – Can’t Stop The Feeling! (he also produced the soundtrack to Trolls (What a beautiful, fun loving film, highly recommend seeing it!). Read my fangirl report HERE!

jt

Valentine’s Day Girls Nite In with my girls.

gni

Celebrated my Aunt Mary’s birthday  with some dinner at her favorite Mexican restaurant and had some Pepsi- her favorite drink. Love you Aunt Mary, Miss you!

aunt-mary

Bruno Mars new album, listening to it as I write. So obsessed! #24KMagic #Chunky #ThatsWhatILike #VersaceOnTheFloor #Finesse LISTEN

rs_600x600-161007043155-600-bruno-mars-24k-magic-2-10716_21

Rocked some obnoxious Christmas Lights for the holidays. #BestDecisionOfMyLife #5BucksWellSpent #ShoutOutToStrangerThings

20161224_151724

stranger-things-on-netflix1

Received some handmade Christmas cards from my students.

christmas-cards

30th Birthdays Celebrations- We hosted a big family dinner for my sister in law and went on an AC family trip for my brother.

ac-family-triplauren-30th-dinner

Family BBQ’s!!! #Cousins

family-bbq

Best Friend Weekend. – Even at 25, my best friend and I still keep our sleepover tradition going. It started off going to the Zumba class that my best friend teaches, then we had some dinner at her house (BBQ chicken my fav at their house hold-like old times), next we watched our favorite tv show One Tree Hill until 4 AM, Went for breakfast the next morning, got manicures, and shopped a bit. It was so nostalgic and it was just what we needed. #BestFriendMiniWeekend #RoshellWeekend

That Zumba class tho-I had been trying to get to one, forever!

Britney’s back bitches! #GLORY album is just….EPIC! Read my post HERE!

glory

Rainbows.

Pineapple float- #SOTRENDY

float

 

Took my mom to see the Radio City Spring Spectacular- it was her mother’s day gift and it felt really great to be able to do that for her. What a brilliant show. Visually stunning!

ny-spectacular

Got hooked on Murder Mystery 13 Part Series American Gothic- so damn good! #SHOUTOUTTOBETHANYJOYLENZ

american-gothic

Started Stranger Things #NetflixIsDangerous

stranger-things-on-netflix1

 

Attended my best friend’s engagement party.

jennys-engagement-party

Continued with the annual chop.

 

Dressed up in Hawaiian theme attire for my cousin’s birthday party.- Read my post HERE!

hawaiian

Finally got to rock the yellow, red, blue look I’ve wanted to try for forever! Read my post HERE!

red-yellow-blue

After the chop, had to try out some new hair do’s – Reverse Space buns.

reverse-space-bums

Marina Squerciati answered my tweet, (cuz we’re besties) ;). #thathashtagtho

marina

My parents treated me to a massive birthday dinner at my favorite restaurant. Got my big gold number balloons too! #BlackAndGold #Family #Friends Read my post HERE!

massive-selfieballoons

 

That TWD finale tho. #WHOISIT? Read my feels HERE!

whoisit

Started an unintentional tradition of taking massive group family photos/selfies.

family-photosgroup-shotbbq

 

Bridal expos with my bestie. #MaidofHonor #OnCall

bridal-expo

 

My cousins from Florida surprised us with a quick visit!

florida-fam

 

Curvy Barbies (and other body shapes and sizes) are a thing! #FINALLY #Variety

Read my post HERE!

curvy-barbies

 

That *NSYNC picture. #reunion #myheart

 

nsync

Met our newest family member! My god daughter is a big sister!

pauly

Started watching a few new tv series- This Is Us (I have to catch up, I’m so behind) and Shades of Blue.

shades_of_blue_tv_series-478926440-large1636133801832911681-2127604802_284091

*****

Damn a lot can happen in a year. I am grateful for the blessings 2016 has given me. Of course it wasn’t all marshmallows and honey all the time, but I still fought through obstacles and made beautiful memories. Cheers to 2017, may it be beautiful and happy and healthy for all of you, filled with love and inspiration and success. See you soon friends!

*Most images are my own.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“On The Run” Soundtrack & Author’s Commentary

DISCLAIMER: On The Run is not a real motion picture nor does it have a soundtrack coming out. This is just me living in my fictional happy writer’s world. Where I pretend and where I run the show. Haha. Back in college whenever I would hand in a script or be working with already written material/feature film scenes, my professor would ask me who I would have play the characters, where would it take place, what location? And so I think that kind of stuck with me, because as I write this story series I want to include those aspects and give you a visual experience. Mysterious Attraction was my first shot at it, then came A Broken Heart For Christmas, and Love Conflicted. Along the way there have been little one shots, or shorts including a few parts as well. But that distinction is not always clear, I don’t always know how long a story is going to take to tell. As a kid I used to say “Make Pretend” all the time. Make Pretend you’re a princess who slays dragons. Make pretend you’re a ballerina who bull rides. Make pretend you’re writing a screenplay and you get to pick the actors, and release a soundtrack and commentary that people have been anxiously awaiting. The options could be endless. So let’s “Make Pretend.” Enjoy!

New Cast Promotional Photo:

New poster

On The Run Soundtrack Album Artwork:

so damn good

Track list:

  1. “Make Me”- Britney Spears
  2. “Treat You Better”- Shawn Mendes
  3. “Scared of Happy”- Fifth Harmony
  4. “Home”- Rhodes
  5. “Not a Bad Thing”- Justin Timberlake
  6. “Dangerous Woman”- Ariana Grande
  7. “Pillow Talk”- Zayn Malik
  8. “Open Arms”- Journey
  9. “I Miss You”- Adele
  10. “Water Under the Bridge” – Adele
  11. “Things I’ll Never Say”- Avril Lavigne
  12. “I Run To You”- Lady Antebellum
  13. “Save You”- Matthew Perryman Jones
  14. “I See Fire”- Ed Sheeran
  15. “How to Save a Life”-The Fray
  16. “I Had Me A Girl”- The Civil Wars

 

Author’s Commentary-

Background:

On The Run is a short story series featured here on Michelle Leigh Writes. The story premiered on March 7, 2016 and ran pretty consistently all the way up until May 12, 2016. For the duration of a little more than 2 months, On The Run was my focal point. Then came a May/June slump. Posting resumed in July and the series wrapped in August. So over the span of about 6 months (give or take) On The Run was formulated here on this blog, for you to read.

Notes/Likes/Questions:

So often I dissect and pull apart my stories, which I think helps me to become a better writer. But I do want to shed some light on what I felt did work in this story.

I love the idea of Charlie and Sage having a connection they can’t explain. I love the mystery behind both of these characters, more specifically Sage’s character.

Charlie is this trusting, forgiving man who is stuck on believing the goodness in people deserving of it. He experiences this strange sense of human instinct to protect Sage. And because of that nature, Sage feels a strange sense of comfort when with him.

Sage is simple, beautiful and strong. A strength like no other. A selfless-ness like no other.

The relationship between these two characters evolves over time. Sage’s resistance is clear. And while we are tricked to believe that Charlie is the hero of the story, we soon realize that Sage is the heroine. She is determined to protect her family and friends at any cost, no matter the consequence or the effect it will have on her life. I enjoy how in such a short amount of time, Charlie to some extent has got Sage figured out, it’s a combination of his police training, and just being a really perceptive good judge of character. But one minute he thinks he knows her, but the next he’s left completely confused and bewildered. She certainly keeps him on his toes.

I love that Sage’s character ends up blurring the lines between right and wrong for a good cause. And that choice, in turn lands her into Charlie’s storyline of trying to save those who would otherwise go unjustified.

Match made in heaven, don’t you think?

In this story, you see a different side to law enforcement. That some cops and detectives will go out of their way, will go the extra mile.

I enjoy how the story unfolds of what happened that night of the murder. The glimpses we get through flashbacks. I wonder if the fact that it ended being Megan was a shock to any readers.

I also wonder how readers may view Sage/Charlie’s relationship.

Do you think it was believable? Did they fall too quickly?

Their relationship evolved quickly over a short amount of time- a few weeks at best.

Did you trust Charlie? Did you trust Sage?

When Sage found Charlie’s Detective Card did you see it coming?

Or did you feel as betrayed as Sage did?

Were you worried he was working against her, and just helping her to gather information?

Or were you rooting for Sage and Charlie to kick start a romance?

I personally like how for the most part this is a 2 character centric story. It felt nice to be able to have special moments/awkward tensions, emotions between just these two characters.

Most of the communication between these two is based upon their eye contact, their looks, their glares and stares. When those moment become too heavy, often times Sage will blush, while Charlie will chuckle and look away. Sage has been known to need to break their eye contact often two as she fidgets under his stare. He often looks her over, in a way that makes her nervous, her heart flutters and she doesn’t mind.

In the moments when they do touch, at first it’s just instinct. The need for Sage to feel close to someone, to feel guarded. But then that instinct becomes natural for both of them and blossoms into a different kind of need, a need to feel the touch of the person they are falling in love with.

Charlie is only scared of pushing Sage away or losing her. He’s not afraid of his feelings. While, Sage is afraid on many different levels, even though she too feels the spark ignited between she and Charlie.

Relationships are hard/complicated/contradictory. Sometimes feelings can change so rapidly, that we don’t always know how or why or what to do with them.

The playful flirtation between the two are my favorite moments. You see the real Sage in those moments. You see the sassy, sweet, funny, sexy girl she was before this all happened. You see they are both letting loose with each other and it’s a contrast to the darkness of the murder mystery plot which drives the bulk on the story.

Dream Casting:

“Sage Renly”- Shay Mitchell

Just fit the earthy, beautiful, vibes of Sage

“Charlie Steinfeld”- Max Thieriot

Just fit the rugged, kind, loyal vibes of Charlie.

*Both characters are simple life livers looking for love before all this drama unfolds.

Love scenes:

One of these days, I won’t blush while writing a love scene. I won’t hide in a corner shielding my computer screen from curious eyes. I won’t feel ashamed of what I’m writing. I find that when I write a love scene, I continuously edit myself. What if a family member of mine reads this? Oh my god what will they think? The people in my life have a certain perspective of me. I’m a pretty reserved personality, and so writing these scenes would be something they wouldn’t even think I do, or can do. So there’s a barrier there for sure and I feel like I need to work on being more free and not so constrained and worried about what people will think. If anything hopefully they can just realize that what I’m trying to do by writing these scenes, is to craft a beautiful love story.

Hiatus Drama:

WHY???? Why does this ALWAYS happen to me. I can’t shake it. I’m consistent for a good duration and then my focus shifts. Slump? Lack of story direction? Editing is a tall order, and then editing and finding images too, I can be there for hours working on one post- Laziness? Boredom? Lack of time? Blog feeling oversaturated in one topic? Need for change up? Excuses? I’ve tried on all of them. And quite frankly they all suck. I do hope to stick to a more permanent, more consistent schedule next time. I can’t promise that the hiatus won’t ever happen again. Because it will. I know it will. But I can promise you that I will continue to write short stories and I will continue to finish them, no matter how long they may take me to do so. I know my style of writing and posting is probably a factor in this too. I do like the formula, it gives me the freedom to take my stories a lot of different ways, but sometime it created the freedom to stop writing, which is where things get murky. But the way I see it is, if I waited to write a whole series before posting, nothing would get posted.

Themes:

Justice vs. Injustice

Love vs. Lust

Right vs. Wrong

Head vs. Heart

Trusting strangers

Trust Issues

Friendship

Love

Loyalty

Fear

Running Away *from love, and from the law (hence…the title…On The Run)

Supporting Characters:

The Black Family- Megan, Daniel, and Simon

Even though we don’t see every detail about the Blacks, they fuel the greater story and main characters need friends, they need people to enhance their character and their story.

Tim Malloy- Represents Justice and is Charlie’s light in the justice system.

The Ending:

I have a tendency to do the quick wrap up ending. Everything all wrapped up in a bow. There’s a pressure (especially after a long hiatus) I put on myself to finish and so I feel like I resolve things quickly. Like all the Hallmark movies I complain about. I don’t not like the ending, I just think maybe it could have been better. I always think everything I write can be better. Nothing is ever perfect, because if it was there’d be no room to learn more.

The ending I chose wasn’t what I intended. There were ideas of having Sage get pregnant. There was another idea of having Charlie ask Sage to marry him. There was also an idea where Sage and Charlie were going to marry to not have to testify against each other in court.

However, I always end my stories with marriage and babies. For this particular story that ending just didn’t seem fitting. These two characters love each other, but still need to get to know each other.

Often times we worry that stories aren’t believable, could two people really fall in love in such a short amount of time. It’s so unrealistic. Is it? If we all trusted our hearts a little more, we’d probably let ourselves fall in love a lot sooner. Why waste time.

There’s a quote from one of my favorite movies that comes to mind-

“I barely know you. I don’t know your dad’s first name, I don’t know if you ever wore braces or contacts or glasses. I have no idea how you came to be a wedding planner. But I know the curves of your face and I know every fleck of gold in your eyes…” –Steve, The Wedding Planner

*Written By: Pamela Falk, Michael Ellis

This right there is why you don’t need any explanation. The spark. It happens. In my stories it happens. Love happens. And I will always defend it, no matter how early, or unrealistic it may seem.

Missing Links:

Should Sage/Charlie’s back stories have been more in-depth/showcase throughout the story?

Family? Job? Home? $? Past relationships?

I kind of liked how both Sage and Charlie had this intense attraction and pull toward each other, but they were strangers who had to just figure each other out quickly. I like how they had kind of hidden identities up until the end where they decide starting over would be a good thing, and they offer their back grounds, upfront. I think that worked. Thoughts?

Should there have been more about Megan/Simon/Daniel?

Colors:

Blacks, Browns, Greens, Grays in clothing- camouflage to blend in.

Whites, yellows- in the hotel to show purity and simplicity, safety, security.

Red- blood, fear.

Final Comments:

With each short series I experiment writing, I learn something new. Each short story series is its own learning experience. And although there are many parallels and common themes that span across all of my short story series, featured here on this blog, I have also realized I’m growing my own style of writing and storytelling. I’m crafting my writer’s voice. Romance and a little bit of mystery seems to be my thing. And this series specifically is a murder mystery with a twist, not only in who committed the crime, but in the fact that a love blossomed during such a tragic time. Unconventional, unpredictable love. Also each story is a lesson in descriptive writing, were the scenes written well enough that you can picture them in your head. BE MORE DESCRIPTIVE- definitely something I need to work on for the next one.

So thank you for reading this commentary and for reading On The Run.

Until next time… (I already have some ideas for my next series…Stay Tuned!)

Catch up on “On The Run” from the beginning HERE

says goodbye

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edits, or video clips used.*

 -<3-

On The Run- Part 9

ontherunposter

***Read Part 8 HERE

Charlie sits in the lounge area of the hotel suite.

Replaying his conversation with Sage in his head.

The pain etched on her face was unlike he’s seen yet.

It was deeper, darker, the fear was somehow realer.

Charlie hears the shower turn off. He shuts the TV, not having the mind to actually watch it anyway. It was just background noise at this point. Charlie sits waiting for Sage to emerge from the bathroom.

A few minutes later she opens the door, stepping out in pajamas, her hair still damp.

Charlie stands up.

Looking over at him, Sage pauses and holds her hand up.

“Please can we just not talk about this anymore?”

Charlie holds his hands up in surrender.

“I just wanted to say that I’m sorry I pushed you. I respect what you’re saying and I’m sorry I upset you. I assure you that was never my intention.”

“I know. I’m sorry I got so defensive. This whole thing- it’s a nightmare, and I just want it to stop.”

“I know.”

Charlie and Sage exchange small smiles, not knowing what to say next.

“I think I’m going to head to sleep. I’m kind of exhausted.”

“Sure,” Charlie says with a slight nod.

“Goodnight,” Sage says turning and walking toward her room.

“Goodnight,” Charlie says his eyes lingering on her retreating figure.

***************************************************************

Sage lay awake staring up at the ceiling, the fan spinning above her makes a humming noise as a faint breeze rustles the curtains in her room.

Her mind flashes back to the moment, her whole world shifted.

Sage. Talk to me. Please. Sage. I love you.”

“I do. I love you.”

“Talk to me. And I will protect you. I swear.”

Sage sighs covering her face.

She turns the tv on for a distraction.

A news report flashes on.

The male news reporter states:

The main suspect in the Wakefield murder case is said to be a woman, in her mid to late 20’s, long dark hair and dark eyes. Petite build and about 5’6’’. Although we are doing everything we can to find her, she still remains at large. If you have any information please step up and either call the number on the screen or visit your local police stations and ask to speak to a detective covering the case.

On the other side of the door, Charlie lay awake in frustration, his body tense and his mind racing.

Anyone who may know of her whereabouts and does not come forward can be subject to being charged with accessory.

Sage’s head is spinning.

Charlie’s head pops up upon hearing Sage’s bedroom door open.

“Are you awake?” she whispers standing in the doorway.

“Yea, kinda hard not to be,” he says looking over at her.

Sage walks over to the couch where Charlie sits.

“Will you just, will you hold me.”

Charlie looks up at her, making room for her on the couch he creates a space for her welcoming her with open strong arms.

She sits as his arms wrap around her, she snuggles into his chest.

After a few minutes she looks up at Charlie, she nuzzles into his neck and kisses it.

He looks down at her.

Her eyes glance up at him, as she pulls him into a kiss.

“Sage,” He says sighing heavily, fidgeting in his seat.

She looks at him with questioning brown eyes. An innocence gleams.

Charlie can’t help it, he caves cupping her face and kissing her back.

Sage reaches for his shirt as she lifts it up over his head. She stands up and takes his hand walking him toward the master bedroom.

Laying down, she pulls him onto her as she kisses him again.

Charlie pulls away.

“We said we’d wait until you were ready.”

“I am ready.”

“Sage?”

“Please don’t question me.” She says pulling him back to her into a kiss.

Charlie kisses her back as the two of them fall into the sheets. The world and all their problems melting around them.

“I do love you, know that.” she whispers just before kissing him again.

Charlie looks at her slightly in shock but a happy smile soon finds his lips as he pulls Sage closer, kissing her more intensely.

Sage awakes a few hours later, clad in silk sheets lying next to Charlie in bed.

She scoots closer to him and kisses him sweetly.

He’s too exhausted to notice, sound asleep.

She knows what she has to do. It’s what’s best. It’s why she let them do what they did. Because she knew it was going to be her last night, her last chance to be with Charlie.

She wraps herself in a sheet and leans down to collect her clothes off the floor. Slinking off to her bedroom to get dressed.

A few minutes later, she stands at the kitchen counter writing a note.

Dear Charlie,

I know that when you wake up, you’re probably going to hate me. I’m not good at goodbyes and I didn’t want you trying to talk me out of doing this. I hope that you can understand why I did this. I did this for my sanity, because I can’t keep running from my mistakes. But more so, because I can’t let you get caught is this mess any more than you already are. If anything were to happen to you because of me, I would not be able to forgive myself. You are a beautiful man and a sweet soul. And I thank you for all you’ve done for me, but most importantly for the love you’ve showed me. I’ve gone to turn myself in. It’s time. Please do not try and chase after me, or try to change my mind. This is something I desperately need to do.

I love you,

Stay Safe

Sage. ❤

Sage folds the note and walks over, leaving it on Charlie’s nightstand.

She looks at him with a sad weighty sigh, as she leaves the room.

Charlie awakes a while later. Looking around he begins to dread that familiar feeling.

“Sage.”

Met with silence he knows she’s gone.

Charlie jolts up pulling on his jeans, he looks around for clues as to where she went. He sees the envelope on the night stand and opens it.

Upon reading it, his eyes begin to water.

“Damn it! Don’t do this to me, not again!” he says the tears falling freely down his face.

Charlie panics and paces the room, not sure what to do. He wants to respect her wishes but he knows there’s more to this story then she’s told him and maybe, just maybe she’s just being too tough on herself. She deserves better than what she’s settling for.

Charlie reaches in his jean pocket, finding his wallet he searches in it, pulling out another business card.

Rushing over to  the hotel phone, he dials. After a few rings, the receiver of the call answers.

“Hello Malloy, its Steinfeld. I’m gonna need a favor.”

To Be Continued….

Stay Tuned for the conclusion of On The Run…Part 10 scheduled for next week! 😀

I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below.

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*

On The Run- Part 8

ontherunposter

*** Read Part 7 HERE

Sage wakes the next morning feeling oddly light. The sun is shining through into her bedroom, the birds outside are chirping and the smell of coffee and bacon waft through the small crack under her door.

She smiles to herself as she sits up in her overly comfortable and fluffy bed, allowing herself to think about the night before and how good it felt to be in Charlie’s arms again.

video.yahoostyle.com@b024e70d-4f05-387b-aa24-9bc240f54ca6_FULL[1]

Getting out of bed, she grabs a robe and a pair of slippers, courtesy of sed- swanky hotel.

She unlocks her door and opens it to find Charlie dressed in nothing more than a fluffy white towel.

BatesMotel204-0465[1]

“So…is clothing optional now? Clearly I missed the memo,” she says with a smile as she walks out of her room toward the bathroom.

Charlie laughs from the kitchen as he pours himself a cup of coffee.

“Clothes are in the wash.”

“Ah, lucky me. I guess I’ll just have to enjoy the view while I can.”

Charlie steps out to look at her, his eyebrow raises at her forward remark.

tumblr_o5iiulvger1ro8niuo1_r1_250[1]

Sage smirks his way, matching his eyebrow raise before walking into the bathroom.

tumblr_lj57cdR4vs1qc42fxo1_500[1]

Charlie’s eyes stare after her, as he brings his cup to his lips, taking a sip.

Sage closes the door and leans against it.

“Damn,” she says smiling as she sets to brushing her teeth.

A few minutes later, Sage comes out to find a full room service breakfast spread upon the table.

To her dismay, Charlie is actually dressed.

“I knew I smelt bacon,” she says smiling as she walks over to Charlie, she leans up and kisses him sweetly on the lips. “Good Morning,” she says looking up at him.

Kissy 3

Charlie smiles, surprised, “Good Morning,” he says looking at her, he kisses her once more.

“Coffee?” he says returning to reality.

“Always,” she says holding a mug out as he pours her a cup.

“Shall we eat?”

“Yes. This looks great,” she says joining him at the kitchen island for breakfast.

breakfast

“Charlie, I just wanted to thank you for last night. The dream I had was…well it wasn’t exactly a dream but it was nice to have someone there to bring me back to the current moment. With you around, I actually feel like I could potentially put all this horrible stuff behind me one day.”

“I’m just glad I could help.”

Sage laughs and rolls her eyes.

“What?” he says confused.

“Are you really that self-less?”

“I don’t follow.”

“You’ve been saving my life since the day we met, and when I finally show you some long overdue gratitude…your response is literally just oh no biggy, glad I could help. Don’t you miss your freedom? God- I just feel like you’re doing all this to help me, and you’re not getting anything out of it.”

“I wouldn’t say that.”

He looks at her, their eyes locking.

“What would you say?”

“Sage, let me try to get you to understand something, (he says folding his hands and leaning over the island, closer to her.) You’re not a burden to me, I don’t feel trapped. I like being with you. I like helping you. I know we haven’t known each other long, but I can tell that you are a good woman. I look at you and I think- I can’t believe I ever lived a life without you in it. I’m here because I want to be. I want to be with you. So that’s what I get out of it. Just getting to be near you, is enough for me, right now.”

Sage looks at him, her eyes watering.

She stands up and walking over to him, she pulls him into a hug. He smiles, tightening his grip, as he rubs her back.

tumblr_mjglw4z8XF1qfmzxdo5_250[1]

“So…how’d you sleep the rest of night?” Charlie asks looking up at her from his sitting position.

“Ok,” she gives him a smile, as she cups his face, she then walks to the fridge for a bottle of water.

“Any more bad dreams?”

“Nope.”

“Good,” he smiles.

Sage walks back to the island and stands in front of Charlie, her glare shifts as she gets lost in thought.

Charlie notices.

“Hey, you okay?”

“Yea. I just- Charlie- It meant a lot to me that you cared enough to stop us last night, from-well- you know,” she laughs awkwardly.

awkward

 

tumblr_inline_nkyl5vD4IG1s59egt[1]

“Oh, trust me that wasn’t exactly easy,” he laughs.

“Oh I know,” she smiles at him, as he smirks.

“I hope you understand how badly I wanted to-” he says looking at her.

large[1]

tumblr_lwxovqBofk1r4kfic[1]

“Oh I do. And I did to. Really badly,” she says laughing and avoiding his sexy glare.

“But you were right, it wasn’t the right time,” she says looking up at him.

Charlie smiles and nods in understanding.

“Look I get it. It’s ok. The way I see it is- we kind of rushed into having sex the first time. To the point where, it had you questioning my intentions. And that is something I never want to happen again. I didn’t intend to fall for you when I jumped in to help you, it just happened. It may have happened quickly, but it’s not something I’m taking lightly. The next time it happens between us. I want it to be when your ready. Completely ready.”

“Thank you,” Sage says, her smile simple and genuine.

Charlie smiles.

“So what’s on the agenda today?” Sage asks.

“I thought maybe you’d finally like to tell me the full story…I know there’s a lot your hiding from me, so much- that I’m wondering if you were even the one who committed the crime or if your just covering for someone.”

Sage looks at him stunned.

giphy[1] (2)

“Where did that come from?”

“You’re not a violent person, Sage. I’ve been on the receiving end of your touch, it’s not malicious. It never could be.”

“People can be completely out of character when put in a certain circumstance.”

“What kind of circumstance?”

“Look I get that falling for a murderer, might be freaking you out a little. But it’s the truth. Don’t push this Charlie. Please. I can’t change who I am, or what I’ve done,” she says avoiding his question.

Charlie looks her over and sighs, looking away.

tumblr_n2anwzNK3A1sqbphco2_250[1]

“What?” she asks confused.

“You’re defensive. You won’t keep eye contact. You’re nervous.”

“Stop analyzing me. You’re not a cop anymore.”

“Just tell me the truth. I can help you and whoever else was involved.”

“I did tell you the truth.”

“Tell me the whole truth.”

“You know everything you need to know.”

Sage turns and storms out of the room.

Charlie rushes to follow her.

“Who are you protecting?”

“No one.”

“Sage-”

“I’m not doing this with you,” she says rushing toward the bathroom.

“Sage. Talk to me. Please. Sage. I love you.”

tears

Sage stops in the door frame of the bathroom.

“Stop it.”

“I do. I love you,” he says walking toward her.

tumblr_n26lhbIQnA1tv9lhbo3_250[1]

“Stop,” she says her eyes welling up as the tears spill over, she turns to be met by a strong embrace. Charlie holds her close.

“Talk to me. And I will protect you. I swear,” he whispers to her.

Sage pulls away from him.

“I can’t,” she says cupping his face and looking up at him through blurry vision.

Charlie sighs as he reaches up to wipe her tears away.

“It’s not that I don’t want to. I just. I can’t. I’m sorry. Please understand,” she says stroking his face, she leans up and kisses his lips sweetly before closing the door to the bathroom and starting the shower.

kiss kiss

tumblr_o5injnBBS01qfucupo1_500[1]

Charlie stands there dumbfounded.

tumblr_inline_mmrpsswIpt1qz4rgp[1]

As Sage stands in the shower, leaning against the cold tile, the warm water running over her. She hugs herself as the tears pour down her face.

tumblr_lw55uhLFdb1r42a3j[1]

 

To Be Continued….

I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below.😀

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

On The Run- Part 7

ontherunposter

*** Read Part 6 HERE

Sage and Charlie stand awkwardly before the door to their “honeymoon suite.”

prt 7 7

Charlie takes out the key and opening the door he holds it for Sage to enter first.

Sage wearily and slowly walks past Charlie and into the room, their eyes graze eachother in sight.

She turns to face him as she watches him from the center of the main bed room.

Charlie closes the door behind them.

The two of them stand in silence for a beat, looking at eachother. Wondering what the other is thinking, or who will make the first move to cut the heavy tension with their words.

“So…there are a few rooms in the suite to choose from. Um… but I hope you know it goes without saying that you are free to keep the main bedroom. Where ever you feel most comfortable is fine with me. I don’t really need much, just a pillow and a somewhat soft surface,” he chuckles slightly trying to dull the awkwardness he has knowingly created in the room.tumblr_inline_ntrwfiLlC21ruzlvc_500[1]

Sage looks around the main room.

tumblr_lnw7nnmPZ71qe7n6lo1_500[1]

Her gaze drifts to the bed, she momentarily has an image flash in her mind of she and Charlie kissing in that same bed just a few hours ago.

prt 7 2

She takes a deep breath and looks elsewhere as she exhales.

“I think I should choose one of the others.”

She walks over to the nearest one, opening the door, she walks in- flipping the light on, she looks around briefly.

A few things catch her eye in the whole 5 seconds she allowed herself to choose.

Ruffled white cotton curtains. Bright yellow paint. Floral bed spread. Simply Sweet.

“This will do, Good Night,” she says closing the door.

Charlie sighs as the barrier between he and Sage becomes uncomfortably much more permanent.

tumblr_inline_mmrpsswIpt1qz4rgp[1]

He flops down on the bed and lays back, as he has a quick flash of Sage during their recent intimacy.

tumblr_nhwq6zFBAl1tz0mt5o1_500[1]

Sage stands by her bedroom door, her face obviously saddened. She walks over to her bed, sitting down on it, she removes her hat and her wig throwing it to the side. She lays back looking up at the ceiling. Her mind hazy.

tumblr_mlqe2x3Ris1rxm95zo1_r1_500[1]

Well, you’ve done it this time Sage. You’re a wanted criminal, who just fell for a cop.

************************************************************************

Sage awakes abruptly and looks around her darkened room. The only slivers of light coming from underneath her door, and seeping through the thin white curtains.

She looks at the clock- 3:42 am.

Guess I slept through dinner, she thinks.

Her stomach clenches making a very audible noise.

Sage drags herself off the bed and to her door, turning it she opens it to find Charlie sitting off in the distance at the kitchen counter; eating a bowl of cereal.

She hesitates for a minute not wanting to have to deal with the tension and the deep heavy emotion that could come from shared moments with Charlie.

Her stomach growls again, this time louder than the last.

Sage closes her eyes and takes a deep breath in, opening her eyes she exhales; mentally preparing herself for face to face contact.

Sage walks into the kitchen.

Charlie notices but looks down at this cereal, awkwardly.

Sage walks past him, over to the fridge. Opening the door she reaches for the milk and her choice of cereal and sets to making a bowl herself.

Sage begins to look for the bowls, opening a few cabinets.

“It’s the one on the left.” Charlie says pointing to it with his spoon.

Sage looks at him for a brief moment, opening the cabinet and reaching up to the highest shelf, she grabs a bowl.

As she does, Charlie notices her shirt rise up exposing a scripted tattoo on her lower back closer to her right hip. The word reads Love

infinity-love-tattoos[1]

As she makes her way to the kitchen counter to pour it, Charlie can’t help control his lingering stare.

Noticing, Sage looks at him.

“What?” she says in annoyance.

“Nothing,” he says, holding his stare, he shrugs, as he takes another bite of his cereal.

giphy[1]

“God, I hate it when you do that,” she huffs as she adds her milk.

“Do what?”

“Stare at me and then not tell me why.”

“You don’t want to know why.”

“What does that mean?” Sage says her pulse quickening, her stomach fluttering.

Emily-3-emily-fields-31139698-500-268[1]

“You’re not going to like it. No matter what I tell you, no matter if it’s the truth, you’re just going to throw walls up and walk away. So forgive me if I don’t exactly feel like getting into a fight with you at 4 in the morning.”

Sage narrows her eyes at him as she sits across from him to eat her cereal. She takes a few bites, as Charlie gets up to put his dish in the sink.

Charlie walks to the fridge to pour a glass of water, on his way out of the room-

“By the way, nice tattoo,” he says his back to her, as he takes a sip of his water.

tumblr_mq3x49pHVO1ro8niuo8_250[1]

A confused yet intrigued Sage is left sitting behind him and she turns and lifts her shirt slightly to look at her tattoo. She sighs noticing he was watching her. Charlie exits the room a smirk playing on his lips.

Sage sits alone in the dimly lit kitchen, her view of Charlie intensifies as he reaches over his head to pull his shirt off, exposing his toned and muscular chest.

Sage’s heart beats faster. Her eyes transfixed.

Charlie lays back in bed, out of sight.

Sage breathes a sigh of relief.

notsosweetgifshay3[1]

**********************************************************************

The hit was hard. The blood splatters. And instantly Sage feels sick, weak. Her heart pounding, her head foggy, dizzy. She can’t breathe. The blood is everywhere. It’s all over the white and black tiled floors, the white walls, her clothes. Sage looks down and begins to feel like she’s going to faint.

Her anxiety kicks in as she feels like all her oxygen has been used up and she is being trapped in a air tight sealed coffin, being buried alive. Fighting to get out, she screams-

“No. No. No,” kicking her legs and arms about.

Her bedroom door opens and Charlie rushes over to her bed side.

“Hey, hey,” he shakes her shoulders gently.

Sage awakes with a jolt, as she exhales profusely, seeing Charlie’s face.

“Oh my god,” she says her whole body shaking in a cold sweat, as tears begin to flow down her face.

tumblr_lr4krkpDUO1qhtlte[1]

“Hey hey, you’re ok. You’re ok,” he cups her face in his hands.

Sage looks at him and pulls him to her, hugging him tightly.

“Ok. I’ve got you. It was just a bad dream. I’ve got you.” He says holding her in his arms.

Sage stills, her hold on Charlie still intact. Her breathing starting to slow down, as she realizes where she is and what’s going on.

“You okay? Huh?” Charlie says leaning down to look into her eyes.

“Yea.”

“Here, why don’t I get you a glass of water?”

Sage untangles her arms from him, just long enough for him to come back with a glass of water for her.

Charlie stands above her as he holds the glass out to her.

She takes it, taking a small sip.

“Thank you,” Sage says looking up at him.

“Sure. I’ll let you get back to sleep,” he says turning to head for the door.

Sage calls out after him, “Charlie,” she says her voice cracking and barely above a whisper.

Charlie turns back toward her with curiosity.

“Will you…stay with me. Just for tonight?”

Charlie looks at her and smiles faintly.

“Of course,” he walks back over and stops at the bed, not knowing what to do.

Sage looks up at him, she scoots over to the other side of the bed and opens the covers to him, taking his hand to lead him into the bed next to her.

He lays down next to her as she cuddles up against his bare chest. Both wrapping their arms around each other.

prt 7 6 B

The two of them lay there, still, just listening to the night sounds of passing cars, and the water fall trickling outside. Every now and again, the elevator would ding signally someone getting off on their floor.

But most prominent was the slow steady breathing, and the beating of their hearts, intertwining with each other’s. Sage feels Charlie’s chest moving up and down as her head lay on his chest. She stirs moving her position slightly, for more comfort as her hand strokes over his chest, unintentionally. Sage notices the quickened rhythm of his heart rate. Charlie’s hand grippes her waist tighter.

Sage looks up at Charlie as he looks down at her, their eyes meet. Sage reaches her hand up to his face, cupping his face with her hand, she pulls him into a kiss.

Charlie reciprocates immediately, his hands sliding up the sides of her body and into her hair, as he flips them over, leaning into Sage, as he deepens each kiss.

tumblr_mg85viu7hm1ro8niuo8_r1_250[1]

Sage pulls Charlie to her, her hands reaching down to his belt bucket.

Charlie catches her hand.

She looks at him puzzled.

“On that note, I think I better go,” he says moving away from Sage and sitting up.

“What? Why?” Sage says looking at him surprised.

Charlie gets out of bed and stands up.

“I know it’s not what you need right now.”

Sage looks up at him.

“Good night,” He says leaning down and kissing her cheek, the both of them fighting their instincts to jump on top of each other. Fighting an odd hormonal rage.

Charlie turns and walks out the door, closing it behind him.

Sage flops back on the bed.

“Damn it,” she says staring at the ceiling as she brings her hand to her lips, thinking.

prt 7 8

Charlie stands about a foot from the door, his head spinning with thoughts.

He struggles, trying to silence them.

Charlie turns on his heel, swiftly walking back to Sage’s door, as he’s about to reach for the door knob the door opens swiftly. Sage stands there.

“What’s the harm, in one more kiss?” Charlie says pulling her into a passionate hold.

Sage’s arms wrap around his shoulders, her whole body accepting the spark between she and this man she’s known for only a few days.

Charlie pulls back and looks at Sage’s face, He smirks.

“Come in,” Sage says breathlessly as she pulls Charlie toward her.

prt 7 1

Charlie kisses her.

“No. Not now. Not yet.” He says cupping her face. He kisses her again.

“Why?” she kisses him.

tumblr_o5injnBBS01qfucupo1_500[1]

“Because this is your fear talking. Not you. I know you’re still uneasy about me, about what’s happened between us, about this whole situation.”

Sage looks at him and then looks away, biting her lip.

“Soon though. We’ll get there.” He says leaning in and kissing her lips one last time in an unknowingly teasing manner.

“Good night.” Charlie says standing in the frame of the door, he turns back to Sage.

“Do me a favor, lock your door tonight please. I can already feel my will fading.”

Sage smiles as she walks up to the door, she leans her head against it as she watches Charlie walk back to his bed.

“You’re right about something though,” Sage calls out to Charlie.

“What’s that?” he smiles turning toward her.

“I’m scared. I’m scared because I want you. And I’m even more scared now, because I realize that you want me.”

“You’re just now realizing that? Clearly I need to work on my flirting skills,” he smirks with a small laugh.

“No. (she smiles, with a laugh) It’s just that- I guess trusting that feeling has been hard for me.”

“Considering my dishonesty, it’s completely understandable that you would pull away,” Charlie says more seriously.

“I don’t want that to be how this works though. I know there’s a lot we need to talk about and we definitely don’t know each other that well. But I want that to change. I want to be able to trust you. But I also think you already have a weird way of knowing exactly what I need, before even asking me.”

“It’s all the staring. It works,” he says smirking as he cocks his head to the side his eyes light with flirtation.

“Hmm. You sure it’s not because you’ve been trained to investigate people and their every move?” Sage says actually with an heir of fun in her voice.

“Nope. It’s all you. Trust me the way that your body moves, the way that you work a room, no amount of training can teach a guy how to handle that, let alone how to control himself around it.”

Their eyes gleam at each other, the flirtation finally feeling normal to some degree. Like they could be a regular couple making up after a small spat.

“And here I thought you were trying to dissuade a sexual encounter here, We’re gonna need a deadbolt on both sides of that door, if you don’t stop talking like that,” Sage says smiling his way.

Charlie smirks and looking down, he simply says “Good night.”

“Good night,” Sage says as she closes the door, Charlie hears the lock. He chuckles and works his way back to bed wanting to get a few more hours of sleep in before the sun comes up.

 

To Be Continued….

I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below. 😀

 -<3-

 *I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*

On The Run- Part 6

 

 

ontherunposter*** Read Part 5 HERE

Sage sits there in bed next to this man who has oddly become her everything in the last few days. A blank stare dresses her face. Caught between confusion and budding anger. Someone can’t actually fake feelings like that, can they? From the moment she locked eyes with Charlie while sitting in the back seat of his car, she felt a spark. The way he looked at her, the way he touched her, the way he protected her-it was everything Sage had ever wanted in a man, in a partner.

yesssss

Was Charlie just playing me this whole time, she thinks.

Was I just being completely delusional and irrational to think that a man would come along and want me for me? All of me? Even the bad stuff? Even the difficult stuff? Even the things I most regret? I should have known he was too good to be true, too good to be trusted.

Unsure which feeling will win in the end, Sage realizes there are two parts colliding within her. The part of her that wants this beautiful, kind, caring man to be allowed time to explain. And the part of her that wanted to flee and never look back. Putting as much distance as she possibly can between them.

Sage’s uncertainty beings to increase and the thought of fleeing becomes increasingly appealing.

She realizes she has no choice. She has to run. She needs to set off on her own.

If I’m going to leave, I need to do it now. Before he wakes up and before I look into those damn mesmerizingly blue eyes and change my mind, she thinks to herself as she sits uncomfortably in shock on the very edge of the bed, wanting to distance herself from Charlie and his betrayal.

Is it a betrayal, if the person who wronged you, is a stranger?

Sage rips off Charlie’s sweater as the business card falls to the floor, unnoticed. Slowly sneaking out of bed, she reaches for her bag of newly purchased thrift clothes. In a rush she flees to the bathroom to get dressed.

A few short minutes later Sage is already heading out the door. Wig, Hat, and Sunglasses in their rightful places.

Sage gives one last glance back at Charlie, with a heavy sigh she leaves, her heart a little heavier then before. Which should say a lot considering what she’s been through.

************************************************************************

The sun is setting and the night is creeping in. The air is cooler. As a breeze rustles in through the suite’s cracked window Charlie awakes in a daze. He reaches up rubbing his eyes to focus his vision.

He turns to where Sage once lay. Greeted with an empty space, his brow furrows.

“Sage?” he calls out sitting up amongst the cozy white sheets.

Charlie smiles as he stands up throwing on his jeans he begins to walk around the honeymoon suite.

“Hey Sexy, where’d you sneak off to?” he smirks looking around the suite, checking the different rooms.

“Sage?”

Charlie begins to worry when he doesn’t receive a response.

He begins to pace and look around for some kind of a sign as to what happened, or as to where Sage could have went. He walks into the bathroom and sees the bag of clothes on the floor, he rummages through it, noticing a few pieces were taken. He walks back to the bedroom, scanning the area for something. Anything. His eyes fall upon a tiny paper on floor near the side of the bed. Charlie’s eyes widen as he bends down to pick it up.

“Shit,” he says looking down at his business card.

Charlie throws on his shirt, jacket and his shoes and rushes out of the room.

*******************************************************************

Sage realized quickly that the little money she had in her back pocket when she fled the scene of the crime, wasn’t enough to get her very far. She managed to put a bit of distance between she and Charlie by walking on foot. But not much. 20 some odd blocks away from the ritzy hotel and the fairy tale life she and Charlie had cooked up for themselves, was a not so ritzy, quite disheveled and rugged hometown bar.

Sage sits with a beer in hand. Her head spinning.

*************************************************************************

Charlie rushes into the parking lot of the hotel and jumps into his car, quickly turning the key, the engine roars with a fury as he peels out onto the road. His goal- Find her. No excuses.

Max-Thieriot-in-House-at-the-End-of-the-Street[1]

*************************************************************************

Sage sits there, her mind racing. For the first time, in what has honestly felt like forever, she has something other than that horrific night to occupy her mind. Boy trouble. At the very least, Charlie’s betrayal was good for something.

The bartender walks over to where Sage sits hanging her head, staring down the barrel of her beer. Drowning her sorrows with the company of Bud. Bud Lite.

“Hey there gorgeous. Can I get you another?” The dark haired, dark eyed bartender says with a smirk leaning over the bar top.

Sage looks up at him.

The door to the bar opens, a bell over head rings.

Her expression flat, Sage answers rather fueled.

“You all just think that you can win over a woman with a small compliment on her looks and a winning smirk, don’t you?”

The bartender stands there slightly taken aback by her anger.

“No seriously, you men just think it’s that easy don’t you?”

The bartender begins to stumble on his words.

Just then Charlie comes into view as he watches Sage with fixed eyes. He sighs to himself. He can tell this isn’t going to be easy. Charlie walks up behind her and sits down on the stool next to her.

beers

“Don’t worry. I’ve got this. You’re free to go,” he says looking up at the bartender who shrugs in confusion and walks away.

“Hmm. Sounds like something a cop would say. Oh that’s right-” She says grilling him for a brief second and then continuing to ignore his existence as she takes another sip of her beer.

Charlie looks at her. Examining her face, her body language. Looking for a way to soften this situation.

Her eyes stare ahead, unwilling to look his way. A coldness he hasn’t seen yet. It saddens him. Her lips straight and void of a tell. Her hands clenched on her beer with anger as if it’s the only thing keeping her grounded.

Charlie sits there looking Sage over, his heart pounding. His hands wanting to touch her so badly.

He keeps his silence for a beat, not wanting to drive her a way, or make a scene in a public place.

He takes a deep breath and turns to her, finally mustering up the courage to speak.

“I woke up to an empty bed. Do you know how scared I was?”

“Oh. I’m sure. You poor baby, you’ve been through so much,” she says not even glancing his way.

“Sage-”

“You’re a cop. No I’m sorry, excuse me- a detective. A crime scene detective,” she says turning in her seat to look him right in the eyes. Her voice clear, her tone cold.

“I know you must feel betrayed, but if you just let me explain…”

“No. You have no idea what I feel, how I feel. I trusted you, against every instinct. I let you in. And you broke that trust so quickly-like it just didn’t matter to you.”

“I know that it seems like that- but it isn’t. Can we just go somewhere more private so that we can talk,” he says turning to face her too. “The last thing you need right now is an audience.”

“I’m not going anywhere with you,” she says standing up.

tension

“Please,” (he stands up next to her) “After everything we’ve been through together in such a short amount of time. Can you honestly believe there isn’t an explanation as to why I never mentioned I was a cop. Just, please, can we go somewhere to talk?”

Sage felt herself melting, his puppy dog, crystal blue eyes are drawing her in and being near Charlie somehow still made her feel safe in some bizarre way. Not wanting him to notice she was softening, Sage crosses her arms and rolls her eyes.

“Fine. We can talk. But just know, that I don’t trust you. You have 5 minutes, nothing more. And if you try anything I will scream my head off.”

Charlie narrows his eyes.

“Considering your current situation, I highly doubt you’d risk that.”

“Try me. Jail is looking pretty good right about now,” Sage says narrowing her eyes back at him and pursing her lips, her arms still folded across her chest; protecting herself.

Charlie’s heart takes a bit of a blow there with that last statement. Yet in that moment all he wanted to do was grab her in his arms and kiss her. Her sassy side was definitely something that was a trigger for him.

Charlie looks her over, his eyes focusing on her body before locking on her eyes.

original[1]

“Stop it.”

tumblr_lx4xz6iXxb1r4kfic[1]

“Stop what?”

“You know exactly what I’m talking about. Your 5 minutes are slowly ticking away…so…”

“Ok. Ok I’m sorry. You’re just so- beautiful.”

Sage looks at him, her face puzzled, yet angry.

She walks away toward the bathrooms, there’s an exit door in between the men and women’s room and she pushes through the door as Charlie follows her into the night.

bar fight

A dimly lit small yard comes into focus. A few tables and chairs are set up, but the area is empty.

Sage walks to the opposite side of the yard, needing to put that distance in between she and Charlie, facing away from him, she hears the bar door close and him walking closer. Being near him and having him look at her the way he is, is messing with her head. She needs to stay in control of this situation. She whips around coming face to face with him.

“So what was this?? What- were you watching me? Interrogating me? Investigating me? This whole time? Gathering evidence for your case? Are you waiting to make your move to just arrest me, or what? I mean I’m surprised you’ve let this go on for so long. Go as far as to commit to having sex with me? Was that just for kicks? A good old story to tell the fellas back at the office before you slap the handcuffs on me and haul me off to prison? I mean really what are you waiting for?” She says walking away from him yet again.

“No. That’s not what this was. It’s not what this is. It was more. So much more. And you’re not going to prison. I won’t let you.”

Sage looks at him angrily.

“Then what? What is this? Who are you?”

“I’m an ex detective. I left the force years ago. I didn’t agree with certain laws. There are some great cops out there, but being a cop in this world is about following the book. I’m more about trusting your instincts. I’m a bend the rules kind of guy. I believe in taking a deeper look. Crime and the reasons certain people have for committing them aren’t always black and white. I’ve seen some of the most heartbreaking cases go unjustified. I couldn’t stomach being apart of that anymore.”

“And I’m just supposed to just take your word for it.”

“Yes. Have I given you any reason not to?”

Sage glares over at him, knowing he’s got a point.

“Why would you want to help me? You come out of nowhere and you save me, than you drive me everywhere, pay for everything. Why?”

“That night we met, the night of the murder, when I saw you running from the scene, I saw the fear on your face. I’ve been trained to tell the difference between real fear and fear of being caught. I’ve been trained to notice the signs of a guilty person. And I could tell you were one of those cases that would go unjustified if I didn’t do something to help you. I needed to help you. I needed to make a difference. I’m so consumed by the cases I wasn’t able to change the outcome of.”

“Oh come on, you expect me to believe that you were just what-in the wrong place at the right time?”

“Yes. Some things are just meant to happen. Some people are meant to meet. Regardless of circumstance.”

Sage looks at him, her resolve softening as her cross fall to her sides. Charlie notices as a smirk hides between his glare.

“And as far as the sex. I wanted to. It’s as simple as that. I think you are sexy as hell and smart and kind and I wanted you. I wanted to be with you. To touch you. I wanted you in my arms and I wanted to be able to make you feel safe. There. There’s your ulterior motive.”

large[1]

Sage laughs sarcastically as she rolls her eyes. She looks at him her head still in a fog. She doesn’t know what to believe.

tumblr_nd36uwO58P1s9lptno1_500[1]

“Come on. You can’t be serious here. This is all just one big story. One big cover. What are you waiting for? Why don’t you just radio one of your cop friends and slap the cuffs on me right now? Or do you have a pair of your own hiding somewhere?”

“No I don’t. I told you, that’s not going to happen. I mean- unless you want to use hand cuffs for a different reason, then I would be happy to track a pair down,” Charlie smirks as he arches an eyebrow, looking Sage over once again.

“Sex jokes? Really? I can’t believe you. I can’t believe you let things go that far between us.”

“Forgive me if I’m wrong, but I didn’t exactly have to twist your arm.”

“I didn’t know the whole truth.”

“You want to know what I think? I think you’re just scared. I think you are scared to admit that you actually felt something. You felt safe, taken care of. Maybe even loved.”

Sage’s eyes shoot up and lock with Charlie’s.

“You’re not naïve, even you know there’s a connection here. Just because, you can’t explain it doesn’t mean it’s not real.”

“I thought it was all in my head. But-”

“It’s not. It’s real,” Charlie says cupping her face, and looking into her eyes.

Sage looks up at Charlie as he searches her face for a lead.

Sage sighs, letting herself go, she reaches up and grabbing his neck she pulls him into a kiss.

kiss kiss

Charlie pulls her tightly against him, deepening the kiss.

tumblr_o5injnBBS01qfucupo1_500[1]

“Let me take you back to the hotel, please,” he whispers breathlessly as he looks into her eyes.

Sage looks up at him. Unsure of what to do.

“I um. I think it’s time- I go off on my own.”

Charlie looks at her, slightly dumbfounded.

“Why?”

“I just. I’ve imposed on you long enough.”

“You still can’t let yourself trust me, can you?”

“I want to. But I just can’t. And being around you, and feeling these feelings, it’s messing with my head. And I’m already messed up to begin with.”

“You’re not messed up. You’re just dealing with a lot. And I get it.”

“Thank you. For everything,” she says distancing herself and holding her hand out for him to shake.

Charlie looks down at her hand and taking it in his, he shakes it. As his hand meets hers, so do his eyes, and the spark is fueled again. He pulls her to him, kissing her yet again. Sage kisses him back for a beat, but then gently pushing him away, she looks up at him.

hands 2

“Bye Charlie,” she walks away from him and toward the door.

“So what, I’m just never going to see you again?”

“I don’t know,” she says smiling slightly.

Charlie sighs heavily looking at her.

“I can’t let that happen.”

“You don’t have a choice.”

“Sage please. Stay with me. Let me do this for you. Let me help you.”

Sage looks at him, her gaze on the floor, her mind confused. She doesn’t want to leave him, but she can’t trust him either.

“What did you do? What happened? Tell me and I can help you.”

Sage looks up at him, her wheels turning and her eyes narrowing.

“Oh so now you’re out right asking me?”

“Yes. I’ve tried to wait until you were ready to tell me. But if we continue to wait, time will run out. And then who knows where you’ll end up.”

“Jail. Maybe I should just turn myself in. I’m tired of running. I’m tired of looking over my shoulder every second. And most importantly I can’t trust you. I don’t. This is what you’ve been waiting on isn’t it? Information.”

“Sage?” Stop it.”

“You stop it. Stop playing this game with me. Stop trying to convince me that you actually give a damn about what happens to me. That you actually want me. You don’t. You’re just really good at playing the role. Did you minor in acting too?”

“I’m only trying to help you Sage, because well…I can’t seem to help myself.”

“Why?”

“I’ve dealt with enough cases to know that whatever reason you had for doing what you did was a good one. I could just tell by the guilt you’ve been wrestling with.”

“I killed someone.”

“Okay. Why? What happened?”

“Oh please stop acting like what I actually have to say matters.”

“It matters a whole hell of a lot. You matter. To me. Don’t you get that by now. Paint me a picture. Tell me what happened.”

“It was a domestic dispute.”

“You don’t have any bruises on your body.”

“Oh and you would know wouldn’t you?” she says with a laugh and yet another eye roll.

“Victims of domestic violence usually have years of evidence hidden on their bodies. All you have are a few perfectly placed beauty marks. (he looks up at her, his eyes looking her over, something that is obviously a favorite past time for him lately) That’ll be a strike against your story.”

Sage notices his glare and the tension building between them there in that moment.

“Who said it was my dispute?” she says fidgeting under his gaze and trying to keep the conversation going.

“Ah now we’re getting somewhere. Figures. I mean usually female victims of abuse flinch at any sign of physical male contact. You never did.”

“Stop, ok?”

“What-I’m just stating the facts.”

“No you’re flirting. You’re trying to paint a picture of all the feelings from last night. Fine. You want a replay? Here it goes. Yes we had sex. Yes it was amazing sex. But it can’t ever happen again.”

“You sure that’s what you want?”

“What I want doesn’t matter. I don’t need a physical relationship with you messing with my head right now.”

“Ok fair enough. What if I promise to keep my distance. We can even get separate rooms at the hotel. You can have your own space and I still get to keep an eye on you, and help you out. From a distance.”

Sage looks at him, confused.

“Why are you still trying to be nice to me? I’ve been nothing but a bitch to you today.”

“You’ve been through a lot, it’s understandable.”

 Sage looks at him, still puzzled by the grace of this man.

“So what really happened? It’s the only way I can help you.”

“I don’t want your help.”

Charlie grabs her hand.

“Go help some other damsel in distress.”

“You think I do this for everyone?”

“Oh so what I’m special.”

“Yes you are.”

Sage rolls her eyes.

“Oh please you expect me to just believe that you were driving by there that night by chance.”

“Lucky you,” Charlie says looking over at Sage, smirk in place.

Sage rolls her eyes yet again.

“If you want me to be honest with you, you have to do the same. Why were you there?”

“I heard the breaking news report on the radio and I happen to be in the area. I thought I would check things out. When I saw you running for your life. I knew you must have been involved and I had to help you. It’s not something I feel I can fully explain, just something I felt I had to do. Nice diversion by the way.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I know what you’re trying to do?”

“Do tell, detective.”

“You’re picking a fight with me. The kind that creates a vicious cycle. Because you’re hurt, which I get. But also because I think you still want me just as much as I want you. Which is also why you keep avoiding my eye contact and moving further and further away from me.”

“You got me. You figured me out detective. Do you want a gold star?”

“You’ll do just fine,” he says pulling her by the waist toward him.

“Charlie. Don’t.” she says pulling away from him.

“Come back with me. Please.”

Sage looks at him.

“Separate rooms,” she says agreeing.

Charlie smiles.

He steps back away from her, holding his hands up in surrender.

“Your wish is my command.”

Sage opens the back door and walks into the bar as Charlie follows, heading toward the car.

To Be Continued….

I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below. 😀

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*

 

On The Run- Part 5

ontherunposter

***Read Part 4 HERE

This part is deemed a bit more mature.

Parental-advisory-explicit-lyrics

Due to Sexual Content

 

Sage looks around her motel room, as she grabs some food and drinks left over from the night before and throws them into a plastic bag. Despite its unlivable conditions; of mold, heating problems, shag carpet, and a mattress that feels like the springs are about to poke through any second, this gritty place has been her safe haven.

Her fear of leaving instantly strikes.

*****************************************************************************

She gets halted by the same familiar scream ringing in her ear.

“Help! Help me! Please.”

Sage is left still- in silence. The image of her looking at her own reflection in a modern sleek mirror, her hands and clothes covered in blood- flashes through her mind. Yet another vivid memory from that horrific night.

“What did you do?” a shaky female voice says as Sage turns toward it, her whole body shaking in fear and adrenaline.

*****************************************************************************

Sage’s heart begins to pound, as her face turns a pale shade.

Charlie appears in the motel doorway.

“Hey, you okay?”

Sage instantly breaks from her trance at the sound of his soothing and newly familiar voice. The effect this man has on her after such a short amount of time, both excites and frightens her.

She looks up at him, her eyes instantly locking onto his.

Charlie smirks her way.

“Yea, I um- I’m ok. I just um, I was just grabbing the extra snacks. Figured they shouldn’t go to waste, right? We may get hungry on the road.”

“Yea, sure.”

Sage bites her lip, and looks away trying to cover her fear.

Charlie notices and eyes her with a deeper look, but knowing it’s not his place to pry he let’s it slide.

“I’ll be in the car, you come out when you’re ready.”

“Ok, I’ll just be a minute,” Sage says with a faint smile.

Charlie smiles and starts to walk away, just as he’s about through the door, he turns back around.

“Oh, I forgot-I found these in the back of my car, thought it might help you disguise yourself until we can get you some clothes and a new hair style.”

Charlie hands her a baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses.

Sage sighs of relief, as she smiles up at him.

“Thank you. You are my lifesaver.”

Charlie smiles as he looks at her, his eyes look her over and land back where they started- in their usual intense glance with this mystery girl’s eyes.

Sage fidgets under his gaze.

“What?” she says looking down at herself. Clad in Charlie’s oversized t-shirt and flannel button down and sweatpants, Sage suddenly feels insecure.

charlie and sage

Charlie smiles and looks away.

“Nothing. I’ll be in the car,” He says walking off.

“Ok,” She says not knowing what to make of the tension between them.

Sage walks over to the motel mirror, she places the hat on, followed by the sunglasses and looks at her reflection.

“Who are you?” She whispers to herself.

With a sigh full of pain and dressed in fear, Sage grabs the bag of snacks and heads out of the motel room.

Sage looks out into the sunlight, the motel is vacant, no one in sight, and still she keeps her head down and walks swiftly to the car.

Charlie sees her and leans over unlocking the door.

Sage swiftly sits, closing the door quickly, she reaches for her seat belt.

“You got everything you need?” Charlie asks looking over at her.

“Yup. Didn’t really have much on me,” She says looking down at her hands as they shake.

Charlie reaches over and grabs her hands in his.

“We’re gonna get you through this. I know it’s scary but, you’re gonna be ok. I won’t let anything happen to you, I promise.”

Sage looks at him and instinctively entangles her hand into his, giving him a small smile.

136a4dcc-b348-433e-83df-b6c99242a26d[1]

Her heart pounding, from the feeling of the physical contact.

Charlie smiles back and pulls his hand away to start the car.

“We should probably get some gas, just to be on the safe side. I don’t know how long we’ll be driving, before we make our next stop.”

“Yea sure. That sounds like a plan. In fact, maybe I can get to an ATM, so I can pull out some money.”

Charlie pulls out of the motel parking lot and onto the highway.

“No, stop worrying, I’ve got this. Besides pulling money out of your bank account could raise a red flag. It could lead to a trail and pin point your location. They know what you look like, if somehow you’re name gets known, that trail will be your worst nightmare.”

“Really? Funny I thought I was already living one.”

“Oh what you mean being on the run with a stranger? Am I really that bad of company?”

Sage looks over at him.

“No, not at all. You’re the only thing keeping me sane.”

Charlie looks over at her sympathetically.

After a few miles, Charlie pulls into a gas station.

“Stay in the car. Don’t talk to anyone. I’ll handle this. I’ll make it quick.”

Charlie gets out of the car.

**********************************************************************

The sleek black car whizzes by- on the road once again, looking for a place to ransack for a new look, and a new identity.

Charlie points to an old thrift store.

“You wanna give that a shot?”

“Yea sure. I’m not in a position to be picky.”

Charlie makes a quick turn. Parking in front of the store.

Upon getting out of the car, Charlie walks over to Sage’s side.

He opens the door for her.

“Ok look, we have to be quick, grab a few things. In and out. You can’t risk anybody memorizing your face. Take a breath. You can do this. In and out. No eye contact, don’t talk to anybody. Follow my lead and you’ll be fine.”

Sage nods.

Charlie begins to walk toward the storefront as he reaches to grab the door knob, Sage instinctively reaches for his free hand, needing him close by.

Charlie looks at her and tightens his grip on her hand, giving her a small smile, letting her know he’s got her.

He leads Sage into the store.

They are instantly met with a fresh faced, helpful teen girl.

“Hi welcome to Dress Thrifty, how can I help you?”

Sage keeps her head down, ducking slightly behind Charlie’s shoulder.

“Um. No, we’re just browsing. Thanks,” He says flashing her a smile.

“Ok. Well happy hunting. Let me know if you need anything.”

“Sure.” Charlie says walking Sage down into the nearest aisle.

The two of them set into looking through the racks of clothes, pulling anything that looks like it would fit her.

Charlie glances over at Sage, he can tell she’s nervous. He comes up behind her.

“Breathe,” he whispers, “You’re doing great.”

Sage looks up at him with a small smile.

“Find anything good?” He asks, changing the subject.

“Yea. I think I’m good. Got all my bases covered,” She says holding her arms out- full of clothing, shoes, and such.

“Ok good. Should we head to check out?” Charlie asks.

“Yes.”

Charlie looks up and something catches his eye.

“Oh wait-one more thing,” He says walking over to a section full of wigs.

Sage follows, her face puzzled.

“Pick a few,” Charlie says looking at her.

“Um…Okay.”

Sage grabs a short brunette wig and a long red haired wig.

“Ok all set?”

“Guess so,” Sage says with a small laugh.

“Ok let’s go,” Charlie says putting his hand on the small of her back and leading her to the front of the store.

Sage feels chills run up her spine. She smiles internally.

At the counter Charlie turns to Sage to take everything from her arms.

The young teen begins to ring up the wigs first. She looks up at the two and laughs.

“Well, someone must not be able to make up his mind?”

“I’m sorry?” Charlie says confused.

“I’m just surprised you didn’t make her get a blonde one too?”

“I’m not sure I know what you’re getting at,” Charlie says continuing to be puzzled.

Sage pretends to look around at the items near the register, keeping her head down.

“Role play? My boyfriend and I do it all the time. I have to say he does like when I wear the blonde wig the best,” She laughs.

Sage can’t help but look up at this young freckle faced, red haired, teen, in shock.

“Oh. Um. Yea. No she’s actually a hair stylist. They’re for practice,” Charlie says making up an epic excuse on the fly.

“Oh. Whoops,” The girl laughs as she finishes ringing their items up.

Charlie, slightly red faced turns to Sage with wide eyes, Sage laughs slightly, as Charlie smiles at her.

“Hey babe, why don’t you go start the car up, I got this,” He says holding the keys out to Sage as she nods playing along.

“Sure, babe, um by the way grab me a diet coke,” She smiles leaning up and kissing his cheek.

Charlie smiles as Sage heads out of the store.

“You can add on the diet coke too,” He says taking money from his wallet.

**************************************************************************

Sage sits in the car. She turns the radio on to silence her racing mind.

large[1] (2)

Charlie exits the store and walking up to the back door, he opens it throwing the bags in. Then opening the front door, he joins Sage in the front seat.

“Could you believe that girl? What was she like 16?” Charlie says as he starts the car.

“I know. I was thoroughly uncomfortable.”

Charlie laughs, “I saw,” He says smiling over at her, as he hands her the diet coke.

“Thank you. So where to next?” she asks looking over at him.

“We drive, out of town. Put a good amount of miles in between you and the scene.”

“Ok.”

“No questions? No snarky comments?” Charlie says looking over at her with an arch forming in his eyebrow.

tumblr_inline_nkyl5vD4IG1s59egt[1]

“I am not- snarky,” Sage says with a gasp, hitting him in the shoulder playfully.

“You could be a little snarky.”

“No, I cannot.”

“Yes you can,” he says laughing harder, “Don’t worry, it’s kind of sexy,” Charlie says looking over at her, locking onto her stare.

The light changes and Charlie focuses back on the road as Sage looks out her window, trying to steady the butterflies fluttering in her stomach.

**************************************************************************

Sage and Charlie have been driving for about a half an hour, and Sage looks over at Charlie.

“Could we maybe make a pit stop in a few?”

“Sure. You hungry?”

“Starving. I know I have the stuff from the vending machine, but I’m dying for some real food.”

“Ok good. Me too,” He says laughing.

Charlie sees a rest stop sign and pulls into the parking lot.

“We’ll get something to go?”

“Yea I think that’s best,” Sage says.

“You wanna just tell me what you want? I’ll go grab it.”

“Um. Ok. I’ll just have turkey, lettuce and mayo on a roll.”

“No fries? You mean to tell me you’re not a fries girl?”

“Oh I’m totally a fries girl, but you basically just bought me a new wardrobe so…the sandwich is more than enough.”

“Stop it. I don’t mind. In order for this to work, you’re going to have to let me take care of you.”

“I’m not very good at that.”

“Yea I’m getting that.”

They share a moment.

Sage looks away.

“I’ll be quick.”

Charlie gets out of the car and walks off toward the food court.

Sage sits quietly in the car. She looks around at her surroundings. She sees a sign for a restroom, and it sparks something.

“I should go while I can,” she says leaning into the back of the car she pulls out the long red wig and sets to fitting it on her head. She looks into the car mirror and fusses with t, sighing she throws her hat back on and locking both doors from the inside, before stepping out, she heads toward the rest room.

A few minutes later, she emerges as she walks toward the car, she sees Charlie pacing about.

10-bm_308_max1_jd[1]

He appears to be nervous.

He spots her and sighs, walking swiftly over to her.

“Where’d you go?”

“I had to use the restroom. I figured I should go while I have the chance.”

“A little heads up would have been nice. I came back and you were done and I got worried that something happened to you.”

“Oh. I’m sorry. I guess I didn’t think.”

“No. You didn’t. Look I know that this is a weird situation, and you barely know me. But I am committed to helping you. So I need you to remember that you’re thinking for two now. We’re a team.”

“Ok. You’re right. I can do that. I’m sorry,” Sage says realizing how nervous Charlie had gotten. His cool calm and collective side was completely thrown.

“It’s ok. Just. Keep me in the loop, please.”

“I will. From now on, you are so in the loop,” She says smiling.

“Thank you,” Charlie says smirking “Let’s get outta here,” he says nodding toward the car.

Climbing into the car, Sage looks over at Charlie and he starts the engine and peels back onto the road.

“So are you a “don’t eat in my car” kinda guy?”

“Yes. Yes I am.”

Sage looks down and puts her sandwich back into its bag.

Charlie laughs.

“Sage. Are you kidding me? Does this car look like I keep it spotless? Go for it.”

Sage smiles and opens her sandwich and fries laying them on her lap.

She takes a fry and holds it up to Charlie’s lips for him to eat.

He looks over at her and smiles, as he bites it, not taking his hands off the wheel.

Sage smiles and resumes eating.

*************************************************************************

The two of them finally find a hotel about 2 hours away. As Charlie pulls into the driveway, Sage notices the grand gold statues and waterfalls throughout the walkway.

“Charlie. This place is going to be so expensive. We can’t stay here.”

“Yes we can. Don’t worry about it,” He says shutting off the car.

“What about me, I look like a bum, I am going to draw attention to myself, and I’ll stick out like a sore thumb.”

“It’ll be for two seconds at check in, I am sure I can make up some excuse. We’ll be fine. Don’t worry.”

Sage and Charlie grab their bags and head toward the hotel.

They walk through the sliding doors and up to the counter. They are met with a very chirpy, smiley, overly eccentric young male.

“How can I help you on his fine day?”

“Well my uh, wife (he says pulling Sage by the waist into him) and I would like a room.”

Sage goes along with the role, as she wraps her arm around his back, laying her head on his shoulder not making eye contact with the concierge.

“The dotting wife role, is surprisingly easy to pull off,” she thinks to herself as being with Charlie somehow already feels natural.

“I could get used to this,” she thinks stroking Charlie’s back, as his back tightens up under her sudden touch.

“Ok perfect. Um if you can just supply a credit card. It is $2,000 a night, how long were you planning to stay?”

Sage’s head shoots up and before she can protest, Charlie hands over his credit card.

“We’re not exactly sure, we’re trying to recreate our honeymoon, it was kind of hysterically awful but slightly wonderful, hence the dirty clothes, yet smiling faces.”

“I knew there was an explanation,” He laughs.

“There always is,” Charlies says “Feel free to charge away for as long as we stay.”

“Oh ok. That is great.”

He punches in a few things at the computer and hands Charlie a hotel room key.

“Here is your key, you are in room 504, the honeymoon suite.

“Perfect,” Charlie says smiling as he takes the key.

“Do you need help with your bags?”

“Don’t have any, we lost our luggage on our honeymoon so…”

“Your dedication to realism astounds me, have a great time. This is such a romantic gesture, I could just die.”

Charlie laughs and walks off as he leads Sage toward the elevator.

The two step into the empty elevator, as they make it to the next floor a few people get on.

Two women get on at the third floor, and are in mid conversation.

One of them makes eye contact with Charlie, he looks away down at Sage, as she tightens her grip on his hand.

tumblr_nutnx7CXYx1uqvi9so1_500[1]

“So did you see that thing on the news, about the murder in Wakefield? That’s only two hours from here. They say it was committed by a woman. Had a sketch of her on the news and everything.”

“Yea I did see that. Crazy world we live in.”

Charlie’s gaze sticks onto Sage, as he feels the fear run through her body, all her energy being focused on keeping her head down and tightening her grip on his hand.

The elevator reaches the 5th floor as Charlie pushes past the women he leads Sage to their room.

Opening the door, Sage rushes in, her heart pounding.

Charlie closes the door behind him, dropping their bags to the side as he follows Sage.

“Hey…”

“There’s a sketch out? I can’t do this. I can’t keep this up. I—”

She starts to breathe heavy and break into a sweat.

“Hey…hey….”

Unable to get through to her, Charlie cups her face and looks at her, directly into her eyes. He pulls her to him and kisses her.

charlie and sage kiss

Sage wraps her arms around his neck instantaneously, kissing him back. The kiss deepens and goes on for much longer than Charlie thought or intended it to.

Charlie pulls away in need of some air. He looks at her.

“I’ve been wanting to do that since the moment I met you and got a look at these lips,” He says cupping her face as his thumb grazes her lower lip.

“Well that makes two of us,” Sage says her hands running over his chest as she leans up to meet his lips again. Cupping her face with both hands, Charlie then removes her hat and her wig and tosses it to the side.

“I’m glad we didn’t go for anything too permanent, you’re kind of perfect the way you are,” he says pulling her back to him as he kisses her again his hands tightening around her body, gripping her closer into him.

He looks down into her eyes, she smiles up at him and without hesitation she lifts her layers of shirts off, leaving her in her bra.

Charlie looks down at her and sighing nervously, he looks away, slightly flustered.

“Ok,” He laughs. “This is moving really fast, are you sure you want to-”

“I trust you,” Sage says looking at him, just before pulling him into another electrically charged kiss.

Charlie pulls her closer toward him as he reaches to remove his jacket.

bed

***********************************************************************

Moments later Sage and Charlie are tangled up in the silk white sheets, their clothes sprawled about, and their hands exploring new territory.

Charlie hovers above Sage and looks at her.

“You’re beautiful,” He says as he leans down and kisses her.

“Where did you come from?” She says cupping the back of his neck and starring into his eyes.

“I guess I was just in the right place at the right time,” He says continuing to kiss her as he works his way from her lips to her jaw line, her neck, her chest, her stomach and back to her lips again. Sage smiles against Charlie’s lips as she pulls him into her, her legs and arms wrap around his body. He smirks gripping her thighs he seals any left over space between them, as Sage squeals in happy laughter.

***********************************************************************

Sage awakes an hour or so later, her stomach growling. She looks over at the handsome, scantily covered stranger lying beside her and smiles. Not wanting to wake him he slides to the edge of the bed wrapped in part of the sheet, and grabs Charlie’s sweater to throw on.

Wrapping it around herself, she puts her hands into the pockets and feels something. She pulls out a business card. She proceeds to read it, not thinking anything of it-until the words hit her like a ton of bricks.

The card reads- Charlie Steinfeld. Detective. Crime Scene Investigator.

Tumblr (6)[1]

Sage’s heart drops as she looks over at the man she has entrusted with her life, her mind and her body.

 

To Be Continued….

Welcome to Michelle Leigh Writes latest short story, series…I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below. 😀

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*

 

 

On The Run- Part 4

ontherunposter

***Read Part 3 HERE

Sage hurriedly walks up to a small house with a white picket fence. The American Dream on display for all to see. Pushing the gate she proceeds to the door way. As she lifts her hand to ring the door bell, she hears a female voice screaming;    

“Help! Help me! Please.”

Followed by what one can only describe as an abnormally loud crash.

She rushes in, struck with fear, as the screaming intensifies.

Sage awakes from her nightmare, in a cold sweat, her heart pounding. The morning casts a slight ray of sun creeping through the dingy yellowed curtains. The sun serving as a daunting reminder that Sage has to endure yet another day of replaying the horrible incident she’s been running from.

As she grabs her head she tries to lie as still as possible. It continues pounding and her eyes feel heavy. It’s safe to say that Sage didn’t get that much sleep last night. She is haunted.

She scans the room in a blurry fog, as her eyes strive to focus.

Her motel room is in disarray and smells of old moth balls. Slowly she sits up in bed and makes her way to the bathroom splashing water on her face, she is soon greeted with a small knock on her motel room door.

She looks in her mirror at her reflection and sighs heavily.

She walks to the door, and figuring it is Charlie she reaches to open it, but upon hearing voices she halts.

“Excuse me officer?” She hears the familiar male voice of her recent companion.

Sage freezes ducking to the floor, avoiding windows.

“Hello Sir, is this your room?” the officer asks turning to face Charlie.

“Sure is.”

“Are you sharing it with anybody?”

“Nope just me. Can I help you with something?” Charlie asks calm and collectively.

“Why yes, we are looking for a possible suspect in a murder case.”

“A murder? Well Sir I am very sorry to hear that.”

“Aren’t we all. We have reason to believe we are looking for a female suspect, mid to late twenties, yay high (he says showing a height with his hand) dark hair; possibly brown or black, tanned complexion…. She was seen fleeing the scene late last night. Have you seen anyone matching that description come through here?”

Sage’s face fills with fear, her eyes widen, her heart begins to pound.

Who’s to say this guy can be trusted. He doesn’t owe me a thing? What if he gives me up right now, she thinks.

tumblr_lx4xz6iXxb1r4kfic[1]

“No Sir, I can’t say that I have. I haven’t seen much of anybody come through here,” Charlie answers filled with calm poise.

Sage sighs in relief, allowing her breathing to exist yet again. She stands up slowly and quietly and peeks out the peephole to see Charlie and the officer.

“What about the room over…vacant?”

“Um yea I think so. Heard a car on my way to the vending machine, might have ran into town.”

“And the hotel manager, he or she ever around?”

“Maybe mystery guest in room 7 needed a lift somewhere. The way I see it- if I worked here, I’d spend as little time as possible actually in this place. Kinda gives me the creeps. I’m just on a brief stop in between some construction work, looking to move on real soon.”

Charlie hands the officer what appears to be a business card.

The officer looks it over and nods.

“Well. Please excuse the interruption. You have a nice day now.”

Charlie nods and watches as the officer walks off.

01-dylan-with-truck[1]

Sage looks on confused at how well Charlie handled that.

Charlie turns toward the door. Before he could knock, it opens for him, he walks in, finding Sage standing behind the door.

“You heard that?” he asks.

“Yea.” She says her eyes slighltly filling up.

“Are you okay?”

“They have a description. They know what I look like.”

“It appears so.”

“Oh my god. What am I gonna do? They’re too close now. It’s over. My life is over.”

“It doesn’t have to be over.”

Sage begins to let the tears fall freely. As her life and everything she’s ever dreamed of being slowly feels like it’s being ripped away from her.

Tumblr (6)[1]

Her breathing becomes sporadic as she begins gasping for air.

“I can’t breathe. I can’t breathe.” She says pacing the motel room floor in a state of panic. Hands shaking about.

Charlie looks on nervously rushing to her side.

tumblr_inline_mmrpsswIpt1qz4rgp[1]

“Ok hey. Hey look at me. It’s ok. You’re gonna be ok. I’m gonna make sure of it. You’re just having a panic attack. It’s going to pass. Just look at me. Ok? Stay looking at me, right here,” he says points to his eyes.

“Ok, now breathe in and out with me. Ok? Slowly. Big, slow, deep breaths. Ok. You’re Ok.”

Charlie continues coaching Sage through her panic as he grips onto her shoulders to steady her, rubbing them as an occasional calming technique. Sage’s hands hold onto his inner arms in reciprocation.

She begins to calm down as her gaze continues to lock onto Charlie’s.

His face calm, and kind and somehow oddly peaceful.

“You okay?” Charlie says cupping her face.

Sage realizes her nails are digging into Charlie’s muscular arms, as she had felt she was holding onto him for dear life.

Her eyes gaze elsewhere, breaking her trance; a mixture of panic and attraction for this new found confidant.

“I’m sorry,” she says releasing him and backing away.

Charlie’s hands drop from her face in response. He can sense she’s pulling away.

“Don’t sweat it. It happens. Did it pass? Are you feeling better?”

“Yes. Thank you,” she says looking at him as her arms fold over her chest.

“Sure,” he says looking at her with that familiar hidden flirtation.

 

It isn’t blatantly obvious but there is something causing Sage’s heart to flutter and her stomach to flip in a way that she actually finds oddly satisfying.

“Look I know you’re scared. That was a close call. But at least now you have some beneficial information.”

“That they know what I look like.”

“Yea. But see the good news is you have an advantage- you’re not the only 20 something, brown eyed brunette with a tanned complexion.”

“I guess that’s true.”

“So with that being said- you know they know-so now you can change accordingly.”

“Meaning-what?” Sage says curiously.

“Alter your appearance,” He says casually.

Sage looks at him.

“That would require money and me leaving this motel. Two things of which I am not too sure about.”

“Well I have money and a car…it’s best we keep moving, get ahead of the investigaton while we can.”

“Why do I feel like you’ve been in this situation before?”

“Because in some way…I have.”

“You’ve been on the run before?”

“Not exactly.”

“Ok so-what then?”

“Let’s just say I watch a lot of cop and crime shows.”

“Sure. If that’s your story,” she smirks and laughs slightly, her eyes sparkingly in his direction.

Charlie looks over at her matching her flirtation with his glance and a chuckle.

“So what’s the plan? I dye my hair and get some new clothes and just keep running? Eventually they have to catch me.”

“Not if we do it right. But in order for you to allow me to help you- You have to trust me. So…do you?”

“Honestly?”

Charlie nods.

“I don’t know. What I do know is that you’ve saved my ass more than I can count in the last 24 hours.”

“It was my pleasure,” he says smirking.

tumblr_n26lhbIQnA1tv9lhbo3_250[1]

Sage blushes.

tumblr_lwxovqBofk1r4kfic[1]

“I think that if you’re willing to risk it to help me, I’d be a fool not to take it…but with that being said in full disclosure, knowing what you know now about what happened. Do you trust me?”

“Honestly?”

Sage nods.

“I don’t know either. But I want to. And that’s enough for me to want to help you.”

They exchange glances and an understanding.

Charlie turns to leave.

“I’m gonna go grab my stuff and start up the get away car,” he chuckles.

Sage laughs and then catches herself.

Her gaze drifting as the screaming rings in her ears yet again.

“Hey…look I don’t judge people. Something tells me you did what you had to do.”

“Why does it feel so bad then?” she says looking up at Charlie.

“Because that’s proof you’re a good person. Bad people can’t feel guilt. Because well, they simply just don’t care.”

Sage ponders his words as he leaves the room.

To Be Continued….

Welcome to Michelle Leigh Writes latest short story, series…I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below. 😀

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*

 

On The Run- Part 3

ontherunposter

***Read Part 2 HERE

She walks into the bathroom, turning on the water in the sink, she throws her hands into the running water as the sink fills with red. Scrubbing and scrubbing away her sins, her pain. Attempting to calm her fears.

She wets her face and looks up into the mirror, her breath catching in her chest as she hears the screaming in her mind again.

“Help! Help me! Please.”

She is trapped in her mind for a second, a second that easily felt like an eternity. Finally shaking from the memory she exhales violently as she realizes she wasn’t breathing. Within seconds she rushes to the toilet and lifting the lid she throws up, hanging her head as she holds onto the sides of the toilet. Her body completely exhausted. Mentally. Physically. Emotionally. Drained.

Sinking to the floor, she pulls her knees to her chest, hugging them tightly, she tries to keep a steady breath.

*******************************************************************

The shower is turned on as she steps in, her pile of clothes are seen cast onto the cold tiled floor. The warm water kisses her skin as her body is engulfed by steam.

*******************************************************************

motel room

A little while later she is wrapped in a motel robe and is sitting on the edge of her bed. She stares blankly ahead, her mind still. Her daze focused. To any passerby, she would easily appear to be day dreaming, however, she’d tell you truthfully that she’s living in a still, dark nightmare. 

A knock is soon heard.

She jolts, looking around nervously.

Walking slowly toward the door she peaks through the peephole and sees her heroic stranger standing on the opposite side. She uncharacteristically sighs of relief.

Opening the door slightly, she peers out.

“Hey. I’m sorry to bother you. I had some old clothes in my trunk thought you could use them. And I figured you must be hungry, so I got you some things from the vending machine,” he says handing her a plastic bag.

She smiles slightly as she takes it from him.

“Thank you. So much. I’m starving… and freezing.”

He smiles, “Don’t mention it,” he says and turns to walk back to his room.

“Do you want to join me?” she asks, surprising even herself.

He turns and looks at her.

“Um, sure. If you’re comfortable with that? I can tell you are still a little bit shaken. I don’t want to pry.”

“No. That’s ok. I’d prefer the company.”

“Ok then,” he says as she steps aside to let him in.

*******************************************************************

The two strangers sit across from each other in silence. Food wrappers scattered across the room.

The young woman sits there fidgeting, she’s obviously uncomfortable in her current state of wearing baggy men’s clothes post blood bath.

“I should go,” the man says standing up.

“Please don’t,” she stands abruptly, causing the man to halt.

“I can tell you are afraid of me-of me being here with you. Why wouldn’t you be? You don’t know me.”

“I’m more afraid of you not being here.”

The man looks at her with a sensitive, yet understandably curious glance.

“The silence it’s deafening. I can’t shut my brain off, at least not for very long,” she says explaining.

“Ok well-I may be able to help you with that.”

They exchange a glance that feels like a sexually charged spark.

tumblr_inline_o185wahpgl1rsqbsl_500[1]

Her face is instantly filtered in a red flush.

tumblr_m8f232JlhB1qzmjfxo1_500[1]

“What do you suggest?” she says her eyes looking him over curiously.

The man reaches into his back pocket and pulls out a deck of cards.

“Gold fish?” he asks with a shrug and a sweet laugh.

She smiles and laughs. Her self-awareness recognizes how he brought on the first genuine laugh she’s been able to let out in the last 24 hours. This man. A complete stranger.

“Your laugh is something special,” he says his eyes burning into hers as if trying to read her soul.

“It’s rare is what it is,” she says holding onto his stare.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” he says sincerely.

She responds with a tightened smile as her eyes drift to look away, their connection too intense to withstand any longer.

“What’s your name?” he asks his head cocking to the side as his eyes look her over wanting to take her whole being into account as if committing it to memory.

“Do you what a real one, or a fake one?” she asks with a slight flirtation in her voice.

“Real. I can handle it,” he says with a grin and a small chuckle.

“Sage.”

“Well Sage it’s nice to meet you, I’m Charlie,” he says extending his hand to her. As Sage reaches out and shakes Charlie’s hand her whole body relaxes. However oddly enough within the next few seconds after that first physical contact the butterflies within Sage’s stomach ignite and set free. Fluttering. And fear washes away in that moment.

“Nice to meet you too,” she says not wanting to let go.

“Should we play?” he says holding up the deck of cards with his free hand.

“Sure,” she says snapping out of her fantasy and letting his hand go free.

Charlie smirks as he makes his way  over to a small table. Sitting in a chair he starts to deal the cards. Sage walks over, and sits across from him. She notices a new feeling stirring inside her.

Could this guy be her ticket to escaping the horrific events she just endured? Or is her current state just making her imagine their intense connection.  

 

To Be Continued….

Welcome to Michelle Leigh Writes latest short story series…I hope you’re enjoying! Please feel free to leave a comment down below. 😀

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used in my edits or otherwise.*