The Return

Baker had been in hiding for only a week. He hated the isolation, of not being able to talk to anyone else or make contact with them. But he knew he couldn’t just pretend like nothing had happened. He was one of the most wanted men in the city, and there was very little chance he could return to his regular life.

However, he didn’t believe himself to be a bad person. Just like everyone else, he helped repair the city in the aftermath of the storm, just out of sight. Continuing this behavior for the day, he was exhausted by the time a small festival rolled into town, setting up a stage and concessions in the park. As the smells and sounds collided with him, he realized he couldn’t do this for much longer. Pulling his coat up and his hat down, he walked towards the baked goods stand, avoiding eye contact of everyone else.

Even with all of his cautious actions, he couldn’t help but say hi to a few people, namely Rory. She seemed so much happier now than she had the last time he saw her, and couldn’t help himself. She didn’t seem to worried about the fact he was wanted, as she believed in his good character. Saying hi to some others from the Victorian, he waited among them for the upcoming eclipse, acting like nothing had happened.

In the next couple of weeks, Baker had slowly returned to his apartment. Being very inconspicuous with his actions and only alerting those he trusted to his presence, he began to resume his normal life. But one day, a note showed up on his door. It read: To whom it may concern, the former tenant of this apartment is under investigation by the United States Army for desertion and assault of an officer. Any information is welcome and will be rewarded. Any accomplices with de dealt with accordingly. At the bottom was the stamp of the army, and Baker knew that if he didn’t flee at this moment, the might face a terrible fate.