Well Beyond

I didn't think about the logistics of my stay until we landed. The wheels of the plane touched down with a soft thud, and the familiar sight of the airport in the early morning light sent a shiver down my spine. Memories of my frantic escape, the fear and desperation, all came rushing back, making it feel as if it had only happened yesterday. My heart pounded against my ribcage, each beat a painful reminder of the past. I instinctively rubbed my chest to soothe the ache, but it did little to calm my racing mind. Erik noticed and frowned, concern evident in his eyes.

"Where will we be staying?" I asked tightly, my voice betraying the anxiety I felt.

"Wherever you want," Erik replied after a pause, his gaze steady on mine. "You could stay with your parents if you like."

The mention of my parents brought a new wave of emotion, but I pushed it aside for now.

"Could I stay with Emma?" I suggested, my eyes flicking to her as she retrieved her bag from the overhead compartment. Hearing her name, she turned to us, curiosity and concern mingling in her expression.

Erik hesitated, a fleeting look of discomfort crossing his face before he spoke.

"I would prefer if you didn't," he said carefully.

Emma raised an eyebrow, sensing the tension in the air. I crossed my arms over my chest, feeling a surge of defiance. "And why is that?"

"You have a history together," Erik sighed, rubbing his face roughly. The spiraling tattoos on his hand caught my eye, momentarily distracting me with their dark, intricate patterns. Emma looked at me, wide-eyed and surprised.

"Our history is none of your concern," I shot back, my voice firmer than I felt.

Erik's eyes darkened, a hint of frustration mingling with the concern. "It's not about the past. It's about your safety and well-being now. I need to know you're in a secure environment."

Emma stepped forward, her presence a comforting counterbalance to the rising tension.

"Cordelia will be safe with me," she asserted, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Erik looked between us, clearly torn. He opened his mouth to say something, but then closed it again, as if reconsidering his words.

"It's not that I don't trust you, Emma," he began slowly, "but I need Cordelia to be where I can protect her."

Emma's eyes narrowed. "And you think I can't protect her?"

"That's not what I meant," Erik responded quickly, though his voice carried a hint of exasperation. "But there are things you don't understand about our situation."

 "Then explain it to me," she challenged. I could see Emma's patience wearing thin.

Erik sighed again, looking weary. "This isn't just about physical safety. There are emotional and psychological aspects to consider. Cordelia needs stability, and I believe being with her family might provide that."

"You don't get to make that decision for me, as if I'm not even here," I said, my voice trembling slightly. I felt my own mix of anger and confusion. "I appreciate your concern, but I'm capable of making my own choices."

Erik's expression softened, but there was still a hint of stubbornness in his eyes. "I know you are, Delia. But please, just consider what I'm saying. You've been through so much. Let's not add unnecessary complications."

I glanced at Emma, who gave me an encouraging nod. She turned on her heels, walking off of the plane. 

"I'll think about it," I said finally, not wanting to prolong the argument. "But ultimately, it's my decision."