Page 24

Samuel

"How the fuck have you not found her yet?!" I was yelling now.

I never yell, but everyone’s inability to find my Eden has me seeing shades of red that I didn’t know even existed. Eden needs to come back to me. What if they were hurting her? She needs me to keep her safe.

She is mine.

"We are doing everything we can. The camera footage was altered that night. We have nothing to go on, sir." One of the men in the room says, the same bullshit excuse they’ve all been repeating since she was stolen from me.

"There has to be something, somewhere you haven’t looked. Someone doesn't just up and vanish, not my Eden. Figure it out!" I direct the last words at Joshua who is front and center with his eyes lock on me .

"Yes, sir." They all say in unison before turning to leave and walking out of my office.

How could this be happening?

I thought she would be back by now. Everything fell apart without her by my side. I need to hold her, look into her eyes and hear that she loves me. Who would look out for her if I wasn't there? I brace myself on my desk, bowing my head.

She’s never coming back to you.

I slam my palms down and swipe my hands across my desk as a roar leaves my chest. My computer, phone, and other objects hit the floor. Picture frames shattering and pieces of glass slide across the wooden flooring.

You were never good enough for her, you know that.

I need her. I need her to come back. She’s the only one who can ease this traitorous voice. I drop to my knees, just as the light hits a piece of glass shining in my peripheral. I look over to see the photo of Eden under the shards of glass. I push them away, not caring about the mess.

I pull the picture closer to me. We are younger in this photo and she looks at me like I am her whole world. I need to see her, I need to see her eyes light up with her love for me.

She doesn't love you.

"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!" I slam my fist to my temples with every word.

Pathetic.