[CALEB]

“Tobias, tell me what raised a raised pulse means,” I order, leaning against my blue sports car.

From across the garage, I see him smirk.

“Feeling guilty, Sullivan?” He pauses for a moment, then nearly jumps out of his chair. “Did something else happen at the gas station?”

I nod my head dramatically, rolling my eyes at the attentive glare he gives.

“I saw my friend from grade school.”

His laugh echoes across the scarcely populated room.

“And?” Tobias comments, “Was your childhood really scarring enough for a reunion to shake you up?”

I exhale and close my eyes.

“That’s not it. It was who she—”

I groan.

No doubt he’ll pick up that hint.

“Aw. Her again?” He cackles, walking over towards me. “She seems like quite the lady, but, hate to break it to you… we are the opposite of gentlemen.”

I open the driver’s car door before he can reach me.

“I’m going for a drive.”

I slide into the seat and buckle.

“Don’t forget to say hi to Kamila for me,” Tobias remarks, winking as he lays his arm above the window of the car.

I pull back and scowl at him.

“Where did you get her name from? I never told you, idiot,” I blurt, gritting my teeth as I watch his expression. His smug grin, eased stance, and the amusement in his eyes.

Finishing the infuriation, Tobias speaks once more.

“I’m a criminal, ‘Cab.’ I have my sources.”

—————————————

The sky fades from yellow to pink as I continue to grit my teeth.

Why did Tobias provoke me so much? What’s up with that?

I lean back against the seat, closing my eyes once more.

Thinking back to the gas station, I clutch the door tightly.

The surprise on her face whenever I brought up our deal.

Does she really think I wouldn’t remember that? The one thing that kept me from dashing off?

If I can have a friend like her again, resorting to violence would only be a rare occurrence. Maybe.

I yank the car door open again and throw myself out.

Rushing to the gate, I fumble with the keys.

I just need to get my mind off of…

Kamila.

I reach the gym of the facility and head towards the punching bag.

Kamila.

[Punch!]

Kami.

[Punch!]

Kam.

[Punch!]

Kam and Cab.

I sigh and begin again.

/\/\/\/\ - - - - - /\/\/\/\

So, this is a continuation of “Gas Station Blurb” and “Not So Cozy Café.” (The titles are works in progress…) I’m thinking about making this a book or long short-story. How do you feel about the character of Caleb? Do you think I showed better than told? (Feedback is appreciated!!)