《Shadows of the Past》


 Revelation

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    As the car comes to a halt, he steps out and, like some cheap romance movie, opens the door for me. I step out, used to this routine, and take my phone out, acting like I¡¯m busy.


    ¡°Mom¡¯s in the hospital. They need me there now. I have to go,¡± I say, keeping my tone shaky enough to sound genuine.


    The old man¡¯s face shifts, confusion crossing his features. I offer a quick, apologetic smile, and then step toward him, throwing my arms around him for a hug. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, I have to go,¡± I say, making sure he buys it. He nods, his face softening as he tells me to be safe. He doesn¡¯t even question it. They never do.


    ¡°This trick always works,¡± I mutter under my breath.

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