Anxiety and Confrontation
Red was becoming increasingly overwhelmed by her anxieties about Maddox. These worries were translating into a growing distance between her and Chloe. One day, as they sat together in Red's bed, Chloe talked happily about their upcoming weekend, but Red remained strangely silent, her eyes fixed on an imaginary point in front of her.
"Red, are you listening?" Chloe asked softly.
Red jumped slightly, as if waking from a dream. "Oh, uh, sorry. I was lost in thought."
Chloe frowned, worried to see Red so distant. She placed a comforting hand on her arm. "Is everything okay? You seem preoccupied lately."
Red nodded, but her smile failed to reach her eyes. "Yes, everything is fine. Just a little tired, I guess." »
Despite her assurances, Chloe couldn't ignore her sixth sense. She felt Chloe's concern, but didn't want to involve her in this story. She knew Chloe was worried about her, but preferred to keep her anxieties to herself.
Chloe decided to give her time, hoping that Red would eventually talk to her. But the days passed, and Red remained distant, not confiding. Chloe then turned to Bridget and Ella for advice.
One afternoon, they found themselves in the school garden, enjoying the autumn sun. Bridget held Ella's hand, and they exchanged knowing glances, their love evident to anyone who was watching them.
"Chloe, you seem worried," Bridget noted, gently squeezing Ella's hand.
Chloe sighed and sat down next to them. "It's Red." She’s become distant, like when we first met. I don’t know what to do.”
Ella put a comforting hand on Chloe’s shoulder. “Have you tried talking to her? Maybe she’s going through something.”
Chloe nodded. “Yes, but she insists that everything is fine. I can sense that she’s worried, but she refuses to confide.”
Bridget thought for a moment. “Sometimes people need time to confide. Maybe you could try showing her that you’re there for her, without pushing her.”
Ella smiled softly. "Bridget's right. Sometimes, a gesture of love is enough to show that you're there. Be patient and continue to show her your support."
Chloe smiled weakly, grateful for their advice. "Thanks, girls. I'll try."
That night, as Red returned from her chemistry club, she found Chloe waiting for her at the entrance to their dorm. Chloe, determined to figure out what was wrong, took a deep breath before speaking.
"Red, we need to talk," she said softly.
Red sighed, feeling his shoulders stiffen. "Chloe, I told you everything was okay."
Chloe shook her head, her eyes shining with determination. "No, Red, it's not okay. I know you're worried about something, and it kills me to see you closing in on yourself. I'm here for you, you know." »
Red felt a wave of emotions invade her. She wanted to confide in Chloe, but the fear of putting her in danger paralyzed her. "I... I don't want to worry you, Chloe."
Chloe approached, placing a comforting hand on Red's cheek. "But I'm already worried. I love you and I want to help you. Love is also being there for each other, even when things are not going well, Red. Even if I love our tender moments, sharing your joys, and hearing you laugh. Even if I prefer a thousand times that you are happy... I am also there when you are not. I... I want to be there. So please, talk to me. What is tormenting you so much?"
Red felt her defenses crumble under Chloe's loving gaze and her unfailing support. She took a deep breath and finally decided to speak. "It's Maddox. I haven't heard from him in over a month, and I fear the worst."
Chloe listened intently, her heart clenching with compassion for Red. "Oh, Red... I'm sorry."
Red continued, her voice trembling. "I'm afraid something terrible happened to him. I want to go get him, Chloe. I really do. And at the same time, I don't want to leave you, but I feel so guilty for not doing anything."
Chloe held her close, gently stroking her hair. "You don't have to face this alone, Red. We're together now, and I'll support you in whatever you decide to do."
Red felt a huge weight lift off her shoulders, comforted by Chloe's words. "Thank you. I didn't know how to tell you about it. But either way... I wouldn't know how to go down the rabbit hole."
Chloe placed a tender kiss on Red's forehead. "We'll figure it out together. But maybe the magic of the letter still works. But if not, we’ll find another way. And no matter what, I’ll be by your side.”
“What if there’s no way to go back? What if I can’t go save him?” Red was starting to panic.
“There has to be one, Red. How else would Maddox have sent you those letters?”
Relieved, Red closed her eyes, savoring Chloe’s comforting warmth. For the first time in weeks, she felt a little more serene.