Bound by Variables

Chapter 8

Beep beep

Leo looked down at her phone as she exited the office building, about to head toward the metro.

William Oswald (Paul): Look straight, darling.

Raising one eyebrow, she lifted her head—just in time to see a white convertible roll to the curb, William’s smug face smiling at her as he waved his free hand.

Taking a deep breath, she approached him, standing next to the driver’s side and staring down at him.

“Well, aren’t you a blast of sunshine today?” William teased, lowering his sunglasses and leaning back, eyes fixed on her.

“I’m not in the mood for your jokes today, Oswald. What do you want?”

“Ouch.” He held his hand over his heart, mock-hurt.

Leo’s face literally fell. The day had finally caught up to her, and she had no energy left to care.

Noticing the shift, William’s expression softened; he chewed on his lower lip, observing carefully before starting the car again.

“Get in. We have somewhere to go.”

“I can’t today. I just… can’t.”

“You can, and you will. Look at me—hey, look!”

Leo slowly lifted her dead gaze to meet his eyes. For once, he didn’t act like a shallow comedian. His expression carried genuine compassion and understanding.

“Just trust me this once, okay? I promise you won’t regret it. Hm?”

Feeling sincerity from him, something inside her made her nod. She walked to the other side and slid into the passenger seat.

William shot a wide grin as he took off, headed god knows where.

-----

She rested her head against the door, wind catching her dark, wavy hair. The cold air eased some of the day’s stress. She stared blankly at the passing cityscape, letting her brain wander into its own world.

It was a habit she had fought for years not to indulge in, but today she had no resistance.

William observed her silently, careful not to disturb her peace as he drove deeper into the city, passing entertainment stores, art galleries, and neon signs reflecting off glass facades.

Turning left into a secluded road, he parked in front of a large warehouse, graffiti covering most of its walls, cracks and holes scattered about. Something inside blocked the sunlight, leaving the interior shrouded in shadow.

William stepped out, walking to her side and opening the door, careful not to make her stumble. Her daze broke as she looked up at him.

“My lady?”

He extended his arms, grinning widely, excitement radiating from him in a way that was nearly contagious.

Gaining a little energy, she took his hand as he grabbed her bag, storing it safely in the trunk. He led her toward the side entrance, avoiding the main door.

For once, Leo had no sarcastic comment to offer. She meekly let him lead her to what could very well have been her doom, for all she knew.

He knocked on a side door, almost hidden beneath layers of graffiti. A man opened it, bandana over his head, paint splatters decorating his clothes and skin like an abstract canvas.

William and the man shared a side hug.

“Hey, Sid! How’s it going, man?”

“I’m good, Will. Who’s this?”