TOO CLOSE TO HOME

Chapter 29

When lunchtime arrived, Charlie headed for the short cut. He wanted to see it in the bright light and not think about how close he came to be killed. As he approached, he realized that he wasn't the only one to do that. He found Dawn standing by the taped off area, holding a flower in her hands. "Miss Landry?"

She turned, startled, "Professor Eppes. What are you doing here?"

"I had to see this for myself. And I think you did also," Charlie replied. He gestured to the nearby benches. "Come, sit down for a minute."

She followed him over to the bench and sat down on it, still holding the flower. "I-I have never been so scared in my life," she said softly.

"Yes. It is scary. Feeling totally helpless while you're fighting for your life."

"You were there last night. I saw you," dawn said turning to face him.

"Yes, I was there. You and I both survived what Lorelei did not. I'm not sure if we should feel guilty or relieved," Charlie said quietly.

Dawn stared at the flower for a moment. Lorel and I were roommates. But I regret the fact that I never took the time to try and be her friend. I don't think she wanted to be here, she missed Chicago too much."

"Calsci is a good school. I came here first as a student and now I teach. I guess I can't seem to get away from this place," Charlie said, giving her a smile. "What about you?"

"I came here on a scholarship. Anyway, I always wanted to experience California," Dawn explained.

"You know, Lorelei told me how she wanted to teach school in the inner city in Chicago," Charlie said, looking down at the ground. "She had so many plans for her future. It's such a shame this had to happen."

"Yes, it is," Dawn agreed. "Her parents are arriving Sunday to pick up her belongings so I need to get everything packed up." She placed the flower beside her.

"If I don't get a chance to talk to them, could you please tell them she was one of the best students I ever taught," Charlie said. He stood up and looked at Dawn. "Do you want to stay here or go to lunch?"

"I think I'll stay here a few minutes more. Thanks anyway," Dawn replied. She wrapped her arms about herself.

"If you want to talk more, I'll be in the snack bar until about 12:50," Charlie told her as he started back toward the buildings.