19. Alice

19

ALICE

T he buzz of my phone wakes me. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I reach for my phone and see a message from Lars.

There's a surprise on your doorstep, princess.

Curious, I slip out of bed and go to the front door.

Opening the door, I'm greeted by a stunning bouquet of flowers. The vibrant colors and sweet fragrances bring a smile to my face. I pick up the bouquet and find a card tucked between the stems. My heart flutters as I read Lars's typed note.

Good morning, princess. Get dressed. I'm taking you out for the day. Be ready by ten. Can't wait to see you - Lars

I glance at the clock and realize I have two hours to prepare. Excitement courses through my veins as I wonder what Lars has planned for us. I hurry back to my room, carefully placing the flowers in a vase on my dresser.

Rummaging through my closet, I search for the perfect outfit, half wishing I'd bought that hot red dress at the retro store. I settle on a flowing sundress that hugs my curves in all the right places. The soft fabric feels like a gentle caress against my skin. I pair it with leather sandals and a delicate necklace that rests just above my cleavage.

I take my time with my makeup, applying a light foundation and a blush to accentuate my cheekbones. I sweep a soft, shimmery eyeshadow across my lids and finish with a coat of mascara. My lips are painted a soft pink, adding a touch of femininity to my look.

I'm satisfied when I give myself a final once-over in the mirror. The thought of spending the day with Lars is exciting. Glancing at the clock again, I realize I still have an hour before he arrives.

My phone vibrates on the nightstand, pulling me out of my reverie. I glance over to see Derek's name flashing on the screen. A sinking feeling settles in my stomach as I read his text.

Alice, we let our anger get the best of us the other day. Can you come in for a meeting today so we can discuss moving forward professionally?

His words are like a bucket of ice water thrown over me, shattering the fantasy I've been indulging in. What the hell am I doing with Lars? He literally made me lose my job. Granted, it was a job that half the time I hated doing because of my god-awful boss, but still.

I stare at Derek's text, my chest tightening with dread. Can I just waltz back into that office like nothing happened?

My gaze drifts to the vase of flowers on my dresser, and I'm reminded of Lars's note. The excitement I felt moments ago now feels hollow, like a fleeting high quickly wearing off. I'm left questioning everything—my choices, desires, and future.

Part of me wants to ignore Derek's message and cling to Lars's thrill and passion. But a nagging voice reminds me of the real world, responsibilities, and consequences. Can I truly choose Lars and a life with the carnival when I've got my own life here in Willow Creek?

I type Derek a message.

Be there in ten minutes.

I have to find out what he is going to say. If he apologizes, maybe I'll give the job another shot and tell Lars that while we've had fun, I can't just shirk my responsibilities or my life. My apartment isn't free, and while I've only had a week off, next month's rent will soon come around.

The idea of saying goodbye to Lars makes my chest ache. I don't get why I'm so attached to him when I hardly know him. Sure, the sex is good, but that's no reason to want to spend my life traveling like a carnie with him.

Heading out of my apartment, I walk the ten-minute stroll to the attorney's office. Once there, I walk into Derek's office, my stomach churning with a mix of anxiety and frustration. Derek sits behind his desk, his expression unreadable as he gestures for me to take a seat.

"Alice," he begins, his voice lacking the usual sharpness. "I think we need to talk about what happened last week."

I nod, bracing myself for whatever lecture or reprimand he has for me.

"Look, I know things got out of hand with that man from the carnival," Derek continues, leaning back in his chair. "But we need you here, Alice. You're an important part of this team."

I raise an eyebrow, surprised by his admission. It's not exactly an apology, but it's the closest thing I've ever heard to one from Derek.

"I understand if you need some time to sort things out," he adds, placing his hands on the desk. "The carnival will be moving out by the end of the week, right? It's Monday now, so why don't you take a break until they're gone? Clear your head, and then come back to work. We can put it all behind us."

I sit there, stunned by his offer. There's this nagging voice that wants to tell him to shove it up his ass and walk out of this office, never looking back. But my rational side knows that I need this job and can't just throw away my livelihood for a fleeting romance with a man I barely know.

"I... I don't know what to say," I manage.

Derek leans forward, his eyes softening. "Just think about it. We value your work here and want you to return when ready."

I nod, my mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. He's offering me a break and time to sort through my feelings for Lars and figure out what I really want."

I'll think about it," I say, rising from my seat. "Thank you, Derek. I appreciate your understanding."

He nods, a hint of relief flickering across his face. "Take care of yourself, Alice. We'll see you soon."

Presumptuous as always.

I haven't even told him I'd return, but I bite my tongue and leave his office, my mind and heart still at war. I don't know the right choice, but I must make one soon. The clock is ticking, and the carnival will be gone before I know it. And with it, Lars. The question is, do I want to leave with him or remain here in Willow Creek?