Chapter 8: "Crossroads and Choices"

The drive back to the city could not be more opposite of the fun-filled weekend Alex and Taylor just had. The narrow and twisty roads were replaced by crowded highways, which in their heads translated into the difference between their escape and the complicated situation they are going to face. Unspoken words were exchanged through surreptitious looks, and both were preoccupied with what had been said and what may be done in the near future. While Taylor was driving his car through the now familiar routes of the neighborhood, the tall skyline of the city came into view, which looked like a concrete forest rather than a tropical garden they used to have back in Eden. It was evening by the time they arrived at Taylor’s apartment, and the sun was beginning to set and the shadows of the city stretched long. ‘You want to come in for a while?’ Taylor said, her words and tone revealing weariness and stress. Alex agreed, perceiving the desire to stay with her as long as possible before h