NINETEEN
Hey, I was wondering, Sydney began, when she and Will were driving back to his house, do you think I could stay at your place for a little while? I'm not sure how I'm going to tell Francie all of this. I mean, I told her about my former double life last week, but this is even worse.
Will replied, you can stay as long as you like.
Sydney smiled.
Listen, though, maybe you don't actually have to tell Francie about this. You could tell her the mission was a success and that it's all over, Will suggested.
Sydney said with a sigh, then I'd be lying all over again.
Will patted her knee. Maybe it's better this way, you know? I mean, maybe it's okay if she doesn't know everything. You don't want her incredibly worried that there's a madman on the loose or that your former handler ended up being killed.
Sydney cringed and nodded slightly. I think you're right. Maybe she doesn't need to know.
There you go, Will said with a smile. Sydney smiled back. So we'll stop at your place and you can pack some stuff.
Sydney said with a nod.
The rest of the drive, the two were silent. When they got to Sydney's, she went inside and packed a small duffel. She left a note for Francie indicating that she'd be staying at Will's for a little while.
A short while later, they were pulling into the driveway of Will's house. Once they were inside, Sydney told Will she was going to take a bath and relax for a while.
Will nodded and made his way to the kitchen. He opened the refrigerator and discovered he was out of milk. He walked to the bathroom.
Will began, knocking on the door, then opening it. I'm going to get some milk. I'll be back in a few minutes.
Sydney replied. She raised up a soapy hand and beckoned Will over. She dabbed the bubbles off with a nearby towel, and reached her hand up to Will who leaned close to her. She wrapped her fingers around his neck to bring his head down farther. She put her mouth next to his ear and whispered, Thanks for being so understanding today. I really appreciated it.
No problem, Will whispered back, kissing her. I'll be back. He kissed her again, then walked to the door. Love you.
Love you, too. After a jingling of keys and the clunk of the front door closing, Sydney leaned back and rested her head on the tile of the wall. She closed her eyes and drifted off into a light slumber.
A short while later, she was roused by someone's fingers running across one of her shoulders. The touch was all too familiar. She swallowed hard. Without opening her eyes and her voice shaky, she spoke.