A very short chapter I'm afraid but I think this is a necessary section to move the plot forward. Please continue to read and review as this is what drives me to continue writing for you guys!
"I have to go, don't I?"
"It's complicated, Alex," Gene began, hoping that he could explain. "This is where you're meant to leave everything behind I think. You know that eventually you forget who you are and blend into this place. If you go now, there's a chance that you can escape with your memories."
"If I stay, we could make new memories. If I go, I'll only remember how much I've lost. I could start again. WE could start again." The thought of Gene leaving with her crossed Alex's mind, but she didn't voice the suggestion; it seemed counter-productive for them both to leave everything. Gene had made a life here and it wouldn't have been fair. Alex was sure that Gene could fit her in.
"You really have to think long and hard about this. There would still be problems with staying here."
"But they would be problems we could face together. It was different when I had no-one to turn to, but now you know the truth and you know who I am."
"So, no part of you wants to go?" Alex couldn't distinguish the tone of Gene's voice. There was a portion of concern but a hint of hope that her reply would confirm that she would stay.
"Of course I'm curious about what it would be like. But staying here just makes so much sense. If I go, I choose death. If I stay, I can have life. I can have you, Gene. If you still want me that is…" Alex smiled to herself, knowing the answer but wanting to hear it.
"Don't be daft. Of course I want you. But I want you to be happy, and I'm not sure that I can make you happy. I'm not sure that staying here will make you happy."
"That's what I'm saying! Staying here gives me life, and that means all kinds of ups and downs. The one thing I know is that you being by my side will get me through the downs."
Gene felt tears stinging his eyes and he desperately tried to hold them in. His wildest dream had come true: he had the love of his life in his arms, telling him that she wanted to be with him. Why was he telling her to go?
Alex turned away from the window to face Gene. "So, can I stay?"
"Since when have you ever listened to a bloody word I say?" Gene flashed a genuine smile, tears finally falling down his face. Alex laughed through her own tears, lifting her hands to cradle his face. She moved her finger to wipe a teardrop from his cheek and Gene closed his eyes in an unsuccessful attempt to block the tears.
When he opened his eyes, Gene saw that Alex had stopped laughing. Her expression became a sultry blank. Alex leaned closer and softly kissed Gene's lips. She then moved her mouth towards his right ear and whispered, "I'm home."
