I faked a smile and assured him I was fine. When he asked me what was wrong, I told him I missed my family. He came over to me and hugged me. His hug felt so wrong, but I couldn’t push him away. I knew that if I pushed him away, he’d become suspicious.

I let him hug me until he pulled away. This is going to be a long day. I glanced at a clock to see how much longer before an hour where I wouldn’t seem insane going to bed. 3 o’clock p.m. Damn.. I didn’t know how much longer I could fake this happiness.

“Aea?” I cringed involentarily.

“Yes?” I answered in my sweetest voice.

“I.. uh I have to..go.. for a little bit.. You’ll be okay won’t you?” Perfect!

“Yeah, I’ll be fine.” I smiled as the stranger slipped out the door. Just as the door was latching I locked it. Now to find my Blake.

I sat down in the middle of the room and calmed myself. Blake must be listening for me. Once I was calm I opened my mind and let it probe the unknowing. I could feel something just out of my reach. Blake!