…
She was just closing the register when she noticed Travis approaching.
“Hi, Julia,” he said, nervously fingering the strap of his wristwatch.
“Hi, Travis,” she replied, trying to sound polite, but not too friendly.
“I uh wanted to ask.
” He started stammering.
Would you like to have coffee with me tonight? After work, Julia froze.
This was what she’d been afraid of.
Saying no meant creating an awkward atmosphere at work.
To say yes was to raise false hope.
She thought for a second.
Shouldn’t she just explain to him that she wasn’t interested in a relationship? One coffee, a straight talk, and everything would be clear.
Okay, Travis, she finally said, “But just coffee.
Okay, I’ve got things to do today.
Travis’s face lit up with such joy that Julia felt a pang of guilt.
He looked like he’d just won the lottery.
Just coffee, of course.
How about that cafe across the street, 7:00 at night? Okay.
Julia nodded.
I’ll see you there.
Travis walked away as if he were floating a few centimeters above the ground.
Julia sighed heavily and finished closing the register.
She was already regretting her decision.
What did you do? Haley exclaimed when Julia told her about the upcoming meeting in the staff locker room.
I know, I know, Julia moaned, stuffing her uniform vest into her locker.
I just couldn’t say no.
You should have seen the look in his eyes.
Jules, you’re too kind.
Haley shook her head.
That guy’s been looking at you like you’re a goddess for months.
You’re just going to get his hopes up.
I’ll just explain to him that I’m not interested, Julia said, putting on her favorite leather jacket.
One coffee, a straight talk, and that’s it.
Haley snorted incredulously.
You do realize you agreed out of pity, right? It never ends well.
Believe me, I know, Julia sighed.
But he was trying so hard.
Besides, we’re co-workers.
I don’t want to create an awkward atmosphere at work.
You already have, Haley said sternly.
Okay, well, text me how it goes.
And be careful.
There’s something about this guy that makes me wary.
It’s just coffee in a public place.
Julia shrugged.
“What could happen?” Haley rolled her eyes.
That was the phrase every heroine said before something went wrong.
“Just stay alert, okay?” They stepped out of the service entrance into the cool Dallas evening air.
The sky was already darkening and the street lights were starting to come on.
“I’ll see you tomorrow,” Haley said goodbye as she headed for her car.
“And remember, no promises.
No, I’ll think about it.
No, let’s stay friends.
Just an honest no.
” Julia nodded and walked toward the cafe.
An uneasiness was building inside.
Something told her that this evening wasn’t going to end with an easy breakup of a relationship that didn’t even exist.
The Blue Moon Cafe was located on the corner of the shopping center where Walmart was located.
It was an unassuming place with plastic tables and reasonable prices, popular with the employees of the neighborhood stores.
As Julia entered, the bell above the door jingled melodiously.
Travis was already waiting at a table by the window, tapping his fingers nervously on the tabletop.
When he saw her, he jumped up, nearly knocking over his chair.
“Julia, you’ve come,” he exclaimed with such joy that several of the customers had to turn around.
“I promised,” she said, taking a seat across from him.
Two cups were already on the table.
“Did you order already?” “Yes, I hope you like cappuccino,” he asked hopefully.
I asked for cinnamon on top.
Julia didn’t like cinnamon, but decided not to say anything.
“Thank you,” she said, taking a sip.
“So, how long have you been working at Walmart?” “3 years, 2 months, and 14 days,” Travis answered immediately.
“I transferred from the Fort Worth store when my mother got sick.
She needed constant care.
” “Oh, I’m sorry,” Julia said sincerely.
“I hope she’s okay now.
” Travis’s face darkened.
“She died last year.
Lung cancer.
Nothing helped.
” Julia felt her heart squeeze with sympathy.
Travis, I’m so sorry.
This must be really hard.
Yes, he answered simply.
But I have you now.
Julia froze with the cup halfway to her mouth.
What do you mean? Travis leaned forward, his eyes suddenly glittering feverishly.
You know, Julia, I noticed you the first day you came to work in our store.
Do you remember? It was May 23rd of last year.
You were wearing a blue dress under your uniform vest, and you kept fixing your hair.
Julia squirmed uncomfortably in her chair.
She couldn’t remember the date or what she’d been wearing on her first day of work.
That Travis remembered such details was disturbing.
“Travis, I think we need to get something straight,” she began cautiously.
“I agreed to coffee because you’re a good coworker, but I know everything you like,” he interrupted as if he hadn’t heard her.
Your favorite color is purple.
You always have chicken salad and an apple for lunch.
On Fridays, you allow yourself a chocolate chip cookie from the vending machine.
You park on the east side of the parking lot because there’s shade from a tree.
And you always listen to music on your headphones on the way home.
Julia felt a chill run down her spine.
Everything Travis had said was true.
But how could he know all those details? She’d never shared that information with him.
Travis,” she said firmly, trying to hide her growing anxiety.
“I appreciate your attention, but I think you’re misunderstanding our relationship.
We’re co-workers, and I’d like to keep it that way.
” The smile on Travis’s face didn’t waver, but his eyes darkened.
“Julia, I know you’re just afraid of your feelings.
After Derek left you, you built a wall around your heart, but I can help you open up again.
” The mention of her ex-boyfriend’s name made Julia wse.
She never talked about Derek at work.
Not to anyone but Haley.
“How do you know about Derek?” she asked, feeling her pulse quicken.
“I know a lot about you,” Travis said softly, reaching across the table to touch her palm.
Julia instinctively jerked her hand away.
“I want you to be my girlfriend, Julia.
We’re made for each other.
I can give you anything you want.
” Julia felt panic rise to her throat.
This conversation had gone too far too fast.
She should have listened to Haley and just turned him down back at the store.
“Travis, I’m not interested in a relationship,” she said as clearly and loudly as possible.
Especially with co-workers, I’m sorry if I gave you false hope, but the answer is no.
Something dark and dangerous flashed in Travis’s eyes for a moment, but then he smiled again as if he were putting on a mask.
“You’re just scared,” he said.
“That’s normal.
I’ll wait until you’re ready.
We have a lot of time ahead of us.
No, Travis.
Julia stood up, grabbing her bag.
There’s no us here.
I’m leaving.
Thanks for the coffee, but I don’t want to continue this conversation.
You’re leaving already? Travis sounded childishly disappointed.
But we were just getting to know each other.
“Goodbye, Travis,” Julia said firmly as she headed for the exit.
“I’ll see you at work.
” As she left the cafe, she sprinted toward her car, feeling Travis’s gaze through the window.
Once in the safety of the cabin, she finally exhaled and with shaky hands typed a message to Haley.
You were right.
He is creepy.
I’ll tell you tomorrow.
The next few days at work were filled with tension.
Everywhere Julia went, she could feel Travis’s eyes on her.
He no longer tried to talk to her, but he was always nearby.
in the breakroom at the service entrance in a neighboring department.
Sometimes she noticed him taking pictures on his phone, pointing the camera in her direction, but always looking away when she looked at him.
“He’s watching you,” Haley said Thursday as they ate lunch in the staff room.
“That’s not normal, Juel.
You need to tell Darius.
” Darius Parker was their immediate supervisor, a strict but fair department manager.
“What am I going to say?” Julia objected in a whisper.
Excuse me, Mr. Parker.
My colleague is looking at me too much.
He’s not doing anything illegal.
Not yet, Haley replied grimly.
I’ve read about cases like this.
It starts with harmless glances and ends with, “Don’t get me worked up, please.
” Julia interrupted her.
It’s hard enough being here.
At that moment, the door to the break room opened and Maxwell Knight entered.
A tall, athletic-l looking man with shortcropped hair and kind eyes.
He worked in the sporting goods department and was always friendly with everyone.
“Hello, ladies,” he smiled as he headed for the coffee machine.
“How’s your day going?” “The usual,” Haley replied.
“And yours? Just helped an elderly couple pick out bikes for them and their grandkids,” he said, pouring himself a coffee.
It’s nice to see people who aren’t afraid of outdoor activities at that age.
Julia smiled.
Unlike many of their colleagues, Maxwell really loved his job and treated the customers with genuine concern.
“Julia, I’ve been meaning to ask you for a long time,” he said suddenly, turning to her.
“Would you like to have dinner with me Saturday night? I have tickets to a jazz concert in Clyde Warren Park, and then we can eat at that new Creole restaurant.
” Julia froze for a moment.
The invitation was unexpected, but pleasant.
She liked Maxwell.
He was smart, considerate, and unlike Travis, never overstepped his boundaries.
Plus, she’d been wanting to go to that restaurant he’d mentioned for a long time.
“It sounds wonderful,” she said sincerely.
“I’d love to go.
” “Great,” Maxwell brightened.
“I’ll pick you up at 6:00.
Will you write down your address for me?” Julia pulled out her phone to exchange contacts, but at that moment, the door opened again, and Travis entered the room.
He froze on the threshold, shifting his gaze from Julia to Maxwell, his face slowly contorting into a grimace.
“I apologize for the intrusion,” he said coldly, and walked out, slamming the door loudly.
An awkward silence hung in the room.
“What was that?” Maxwell asked, looking puzzled at the door.
“It’s a long story,” Julia sighed.
“I’ll tell it on Saturday.
” Travis was nowhere to be found after lunch, and Julia felt temporarily relieved.
Perhaps he’d finally gotten the hint.
By the end of the workday, her mood had improved considerably.
The thought of a Saturday date with Maxwell warmed her heart.
The next day, Friday, Julia’s mood was elevated despite the fatigue of the work week.
She shared the news of her upcoming date with a few co-workers during her break.
“Maxwell took me out to dinner in a jazz concert,” she told Haley and two other girls from the clothing department, Tammy and Chenise.
“Really? Chenise exclaimed.
Girl, you’re a lucky girl.
Half the female staff has a crush on him.
And it’s no wonder, Tammy added.
Handsome, smart, well-mannered, unlike some people.
Julia knew that last comment was directed at Travis, though Tammy didn’t name him.
I’ve liked him for a long time, Julia admitted.
I just didn’t think he was paying attention to me.
Are you kidding? Haley snorted.
He looks at you every time you walk by the sporting goods department.
It’s just that unlike some people, he knows how to be subtle.
The girls laughed, but their fun was interrupted by the sound of a box falling.
They turned around and saw Travis standing in the aisle with the headphones from the fallen box scattered around him.
His gaze was fixed on Julia, a mixture of pain and anger.
“Travis, are you okay?” Tammy asked, but he didn’t answer.
Instead, he began carelessly gathering the scattered headphones back into the box without looking at them.
His movements were abrupt and clumsy, as if he was having trouble controlling his body.
“So, are you two officially dating yet?” he asked, finally raising his eyes to Julia.
His voice sounded strangely flat, which only added to the feeling of unease.
“It’s none of your business, Travis,” Julia replied firmly.
“Of course, it’s none of mine,” he smiled crookedly.
But the smile didn’t affect his eyes.
I just wondered what was so special about him.
“Why him and not me?” The girls exchanged worried glances.
“Travis, this isn’t the place for this conversation,” Julia said quietly, feeling her shoulders tense.
“Where is?” he asked bitterly.
“In the cafe, you didn’t want to listen to me.
” “At work.
You don’t want to listen to me either.
Maybe I should come to your house.
” 42 Maple Street.
Julia went cold.
She had never told Travis her address.
How did you Never mind.
He cut her short, rising with the box in his hands.
Have fun on your date.
I hope it’s worth it.
With those words, he turned and walked away, leaving behind an oppressive silence.
“Shit,” Chenise exhaled.
“This guy is really scary.
” “Julia, you need to tell Darius,” Haley said insistently.
“It’s not just awkward attention anymore.
He’s watching you.
He knows where you live.
Yeah, I’ll think about it, Julia mumbled, feeling her hands shaking.
Maybe after the weekend, the rest of the working day passed in tension.
Julia kept looking around, expecting to see Travis, but he didn’t show up again.
That didn’t bring relief.
More like increased anxiety.
What was he up to? How far was he willing to go? Returning home that evening, Julia found her mother in the kitchen.
Lauren Richardson was cooking dinner her signature vegetable roast by the smell of it.
Hi honey.
Lauren smiled as Julia entered the kitchen.
Rough day.
Not a word.
Julia sighed sinking into a chair.
She wondered for a moment if she should tell her mother about Travis.
Lauren was already worried about her all the time.
Had something happened? Lauren was too perceptive not to notice her daughter’s mood.
Just uh problems with a coworker? Julia answered evasively.
Nothing serious.
Lauren turned from the stove, looking intently at her daughter.
Julia Aisha Richardson, I know that look on your face.
You’re hiding something.
What’s going on? Julia sighed.
There was no point in trying to keep something from her mother.
There’s this guy at work, Travis.
He’s taking an unhealthy interest in me.
I turned him down, but he won’t take no for an answer.
Today, he mentioned our address, even though I’ve never told him where I live.
Lauren’s face darkened.
“This is serious, Julia.
Have you informed your superiors?” “Not yet,” Julia admitted.
“He hasn’t done anything illegal.
He’s just uh watching me, saying strange things.
” “That’s enough,” Lauren said firmly, sitting down across from her daughter.
“Listen to me, sweetheart.
I’ve worked in the social security system for 30 years.
I’ve seen situations like this develop.
At first, it’s just strange looks and chance encounters, and then things escalate into something much more dangerous.
Julia lowered her gaze.
Her mother was right.
She had ignored the warning signs for too long.
Julia spent almost 2 hours getting ready for her date with Maxwell.
She showered, styled her hair in soft waves, chose a dark purple dress that accentuated her figure, and applied discrete makeup.
She felt a strange mixture of excitement and anxiety.
On the one hand, the upcoming evening with Maxwell promised to be enjoyable, but on the other hand, thoughts of Travis kept her from relaxing completely.
“You look beautiful,” Lauren said, standing in the doorway of her daughter’s room.
“That young man is a lucky man.
” Julia smiled weakly as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.
“I hope everything goes well,” she said, nervously fixing her hair.
Something’s bothering you, Lauren observed.
Is it because of that guy, Travis? Julia sighed.
It was hard to hide things from her mother.
Yeah, I just I can’t stop thinking about what he might do when he finds out I’m dating Maxwell.
Honey.
Lauren walked over and put her hands on her daughter’s shoulders.
You can’t let fear run your life.
If this man is a real threat, we’ll go to the police.
What am I going to tell them? Julia grinned bitterly.
Help.
There’s a guy looking at me too closely.
They won’t do anything unless he actually does something.
Then be careful, Lauren said seriously.
Keep your phone with you at all times.
And if you see anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to call.
Julia nodded and hugged her mother.
Thanks, Mom.
I’ll be careful.
The ringing of the doorbell interrupted their conversation.
Lauren smiled softly.
I’ll go get it and you finish up here and come downstairs.
Maxwell was waiting in the living room, nervously rubbing the sleeve of his dark blue jacket.
He looked even more attractive than usual, stylishly dressed with a slight smile and a bouquet of purple irises in his hands.
“Julia,” he exhaled as she came downstairs.
“You look amazing.
” “Thank you,” she smiled, feeling her cheeks blush slightly.
“You, too.
This is for you,” he said, holding out the bouquet.
Haley had mentioned that purple was your favorite color.
Julia accepted the flowers, inhaling their delicate fragrance.
“They’re beautiful.
Thank you.
” Lauren watched them with a soft smile.
“I’ll put them in a vase,” she said, taking the bouquet.
“You go enjoy your evening.
It was nice to meet you, Mrs.
Richardson,” Maxwell said politely.
You too, Maxwell, and take care of my little girl.
I promise, he replied seriously.
They stepped out into the warm evening, and Maxwell gallantly opened the door of his car, an elegant dark gray sedan, clean and well-maintained, just like its owner.
“Where are we going first?” Julia asked, buckling up.
“I thought we could take a stroll through Clyde Warren Park before the concert,” Maxwell replied.
“The evening is too nice to hide indoors right away.
” That’s a great idea, Julia agreed heartily.
The park, located on the site of a former overpass, was one of the most beautiful places in Dallas.
A modern urban oasis with an artificial pond, intricate gardens, and cozy paths.
When they arrived, the sun was already beginning to slip toward the horizon, coloring everything around them in warm hues.
They walked through the park, talking leisurely.
Maxwell talked about his childhood in New Orleans, about how his family had moved to Dallas after Hurricane Katrina, about his passion for jazz and basketball.
Julia, for her part, shared stories about her college education, her dream of starting her own small business, and her complicated relationship with her father, who left when she was 12.
“You know,” Maxwell said as they stopped by a small lily pond.
“I’ve been watching you at the store for almost a year now.
” Julia tensed.
Those words sounded too much like something Travis had said.
But Maxwell continued, not in a bad way, of course.
It’s just that you’ve always stood out your kindness to customers, your smile.
I’ve tried several times to work up the courage to ask you out, but I’ve always found excuses.
What’s changed? Julia asked softly.
Maxwell grinned.
Yesterday, Haley came up to me and said, “If you don’t ask Julia out in the next 24 hours, I will personally tell her that you’re writing her name on the fogged mirror in the locker room.
” Julia laughed.
“Are you seriously doing this?” “No, of course not.
” Maxwell feigned indignation, but then winked.
“I’m writing it on the fogged glass of the shower stall.
” They both laughed, and Julia felt the tension of the last few days begin to let go.
Maxwell was easy and comfortable with her.
No pressure, no odd comments or stares, just the natural flow of conversation and a pleasant feeling of mutual sympathy.
As the evening began to thicken, they made their way to the center section of the park where a small outdoor amphitheater had been set up for the concert.
The musicians were already tuning their instruments and people were taking seats on chairs arranged in a semicircle.
Wait here, Maxwell said as they found their seats.
I’ll get us something to eat before we start.
While Julia waited, watching the musicians prepare, her cell phone vibrated.
She pulled it out of her purse and went cold.
A message from an unfamiliar number popped up on the screen.
You look beautiful in that dress.
Purple really is your color.
Julia looked around sharply, surveying the crowd around her.
Her heart was pounding frantically in her chest.
This couldn’t be happening.
Not here.
Not now.
The phone vibrated again.
Maxwell isn’t right for you.
He can’t protect you the way I can.
Julia felt the cold sweat protruding on her forehead.
She stood up looking around frantically.
The park was full of people, families with children, elderly couples, teenagers, tourists.
Where was he? And how did he know where she would be? Julia? Maxwell’s voice brought her back to reality.
He was standing next to two paper cups and a bag of some kind of food.
Had something happened? She showed him the phone.
It’s Travis.
He’s here somewhere in the park.
He’s watching us.
Maxwell’s face darkened.
Travis, our colleague from electronics.
Yes.
Julia felt her voice shake.
He We had a problem.
I’ll tell you later.
Right now, I just want to get out of here.
Of course, Maxwell agreed immediately, setting aside the food and drink.
Let’s go to the car.
They moved quickly down the path toward the park exit.
Julia could feel the panic building up inside.
Every glance in their direction.
Every person passing by caused a surge of anxiety.
When they’d almost reached the parking lot, Julia saw him.
Travis was standing by the exit, leaning carelessly against a tree as if he were just enjoying the evening.
He was wearing a dark jacket, his hands in his pockets, and a strange, almost dreamy smile on his face.
“There he is,” Julia whispered, squeezing Maxwell’s hand.
“At the exit,” Maxwell looked in that direction and frowned.
“Stay behind me,” he said quietly.
“We’ll just walk past.
If he tries anything, I’ll handle it.
” “Maxwell, he could be dangerous,” Julia warned.
“It’ll be okay,” Maxwell said confidently.
but she could see the tension in his eyes.
They headed for the exit, trying to look natural.
As they passed Travis, he stepped away from a tree and blocked their path.
“What a nice meeting,” he said with a smile that didn’t affect his eyes.
“Julia, won’t you introduce me to your friend?” “Stand back, Travis,” Julia said firmly, feeling Maxwell move forward slightly, closing her in.
“It’s rude,” Travis shook his head.
After everything that’s happened between us, “There was nothing between us,” Julia replied sharply.
“And there won’t be.
Please leave us alone,” Maxwell stepped forward.
“Look, buddy, we just want to pass quietly.
Don’t cause any trouble.
” “Trouble?” Travis feigned surprise.
“What kind of trouble? I just want to talk to Julia.
You don’t mind, do you, Julia?” “I do mind,” she said, fighting the urge to turn and run.
“We’re leaving.
” They tried to get around Travis, but he moved again, blocking the way.
She’s mine,” he said suddenly, looking directly at Maxwell.
His voice became low, almost growling.
“You have no right to touch her.
” “Dude, are you crazy?” frowned Maxwell.
Julia is not someone else’s property, and she’s made it clear that she doesn’t want to hang out with you.
Travis took a step forward, his eyes darkening.
“You don’t know anything about her.
I’ve been watching her for months.
I know what coffee she drinks, what music she listens to, what books she reads.
I know she sleeps on the left side of the bed and that she brushes her teeth first in the morning before she washes her face.
I know she has nightmares on Tuesdays and that she cries when she thinks no one can see.
Julia felt a chill run down her spine.
What Travis had described was true.
Every little detail.
How could he know such intimate details of her life? “Were you following me?” she whispered, feeling the terror building.
“Were you at my house?” Travis smiled.
And that smile was perhaps the most frightening thing Julia had ever seen.
I’m always around Julia, always looking out for you.
Maxwell stepped forward resolutely.
It stops now.
You don’t go near Julia anymore.
You don’t call her.
You don’t write her messages.
If I find out you’re stalking her again, I will personally go to the police.
Travis shifted his gaze to Maxwell.
And something changed in his eyes.
Something wild, anim animalistic.
You think you can just come and get her? He gritted his teeth.
You think you’re worthy of her? Travis, stop it.
Julia tried to intervene, but it was too late.
Travis lunged at Maxwell with unexpected speed, punching him in the face.
Maxwell staggered, but held his ground, instinctively defending himself.
A struggle ensued.
Travis striking with the fury of a man who had lost his mind.
Maxwell trying to defend himself and push his attacker away.
People began to gather around them, some shouting for them to stop, some pulling out their phones to film what was happening.
Julia stood there terrified, not knowing what to do.
“She’s mine!” Travis shouted, throwing punch after punch.
“You’ll never get her.
” Finally, two men from the crowd rushed to break up the fight.
They dragged Travis away, who continued to lash out and scream, “Julia! Tell him! Tell him you belong to me!” Maxwell was breathing heavily, wiping blood from his shattered lip.
His jacket was torn and a bruise was already beginning to form on his cheekbone.
“You have to be with me,” Travis continued to shout.
“We’re meant for each other.
He can’t love you the way I do.
Take him away,” someone said.
Someone called the police.
“No,” Julia said suddenly, approaching Maxwell.
“Let’s just leave, please.
” Maxwell nodded and they quickly headed toward the parking lot, leaving Travis behind, who continued to scream as they held him down.
In the car, Julia finally burst into tears, the tension, fear, and shock of the last few minutes breaking through.
Maxwell silently handed her a pack of tissues and gently placed his hand on her shoulder.
“I’m so sorry,” she said through her tears.
“I didn’t think it would turn out like this.
” It’s not your fault, Maxwell said softly.
But you need to go to the police.
What he’s doing is harassment, Julia.
It’s serious.
I know, she nodded, wiping away her tears.
I’ll talk to Darius on Monday.
This kind of behavior is unacceptable in the workplace.
It’s not just about work, Maxwell said.
Seriously, what he said about knowing how you sleep, about your nightmares.
Julia, he might have been sneaking into your house.
The thought had crossed her mind before, but hearing it from someone else made the horror even more real.
I can’t not go home, she whispered.
My mom’s there alone.
What if he I’ll drive you? Maxwell said firmly.
I’ll stay the night if I have to, or you can go to a hotel, but you really should report it to the police first.
Julia nodded, feeling grateful for his support.
Thank you, Maxwell.
Yeah, I don’t know what I would have done without you today.
Hey, he smiled softly despite his busted lip.
That’s what that’s what friends.
She noticed his hesitation before the word friends.
And realized that their first date, which was supposed to be the start of something wonderful, had turned into a nightmare.
“Let’s go home,” she said.
“I need to warn my mom.
Monday came all too quickly.
” Julia spent the entire weekend in a state of constant tension, flinching at every rustle and checking the locks on doors and windows.
Maxwell was close by.
He’d stayed at their house until late Saturday night.
And on Sunday, he’d arrived first thing in the morning, helping install new locks and motion sensors for the security system.
Lauren was horrified to hear about what had happened in the park.
“We have to go to the police,” she insisted.
We have no proof, Mom,” Julia replied tiredly.
He didn’t do anything but hit Maxwell, who doesn’t want to press charges.
“Everything else is just words.
” But deep down, she knew the situation was getting out of hand.
So, when she walked into Walmart on Monday morning, her first decision was to find Darius and tell him everything.
Before she could do that, however, Julia spotted Travis setting up merchandise in his department as if nothing had happened.
When he saw her, he smiled politely as if nothing had happened.
This normaly after Saturday’s madness was so eerie that Julia decided to act immediately.
She walked over to him trying to remain outwardly calm despite the storm of emotion inside.
“We need to talk,” she said quietly.
“Alone?” Travis glowered as if it were a date proposal.
“Of course, Julia.
When now,” she answered firmly.
“In the back.
” He obediently followed her and they went into the back office, a small room filled with boxes of merchandise.
Julia left the door a jar.
She didn’t want to be in a completely enclosed space with Travis.
Travis, she began, taking a deep breath to calm herself.
“What happened on Saturday is unacceptable.
Your behavior scares me.
I was just defending you,” he replied with genuine surprise.
“This guy isn’t right for you, Julia.
He doesn’t understand you the way I do.
You weren’t protecting me.
You were attacking my friend.
Julia tried to speak calmly but firmly.
And it’s not just that.
You’ve been following me.
You know things that you couldn’t find out through normal means.
Have you been to my house? Travis smiled with a tenderness that in context was downright frightening.
I just want to take care of you.
Make sure you’re okay.
It’s called stalking, Travis, Julia said sharply.
and it’s against the law.
I’m here to tell you it stops now.
You stay away from me and my boyfriend.
If I spot you near my house, if you try to contact me outside of work again, I’m going to Darius and you will be fired.
Travis looked at her with an expression she couldn’t decipher.
A mixture of hurt, confusion, and something else darker.
“You don’t understand,” he said quietly.
“I love you, Julia.
I’ve loved you from the first moment I saw you.
Every day I wake up thinking of you and fall asleep picturing your face.
You’re the air I breathe.
That’s not love, Travis.
Julia shook her head.
It’s an obsession and it scares me.
I do anything for you, he continued as if he hadn’t heard her.
I’ll give you anything you want.
I’ll protect you until my last breath.
Why can’t you see that? Why do you reject me for this, Maxwell? Because I don’t feel that way about you, Julia answered honestly.
And I never will.
What you’re doing is wrong.
It has to stop.
Travis’s eyes suddenly darkened.
I can’t stop, he said quietly.
I can’t stop loving you.
I can’t stop thinking about you.
I can’t stop dreaming about us.
It’s stronger than I am.
Julia felt a chill run down her spine.
There was something fanatical in his words, in his gaze.
Then I have no choice, she said, taking a step toward the door.
I’m going to Darius’s.
Travis grabbed her wrist sharply.
His grip was so strong that Julia cried out in pain.
No.
His eyes turned almost black.
You’re not going to him.
You’re staying with me.
Let me go.
Julia tried to pull free, but his fingers only tightened tighter.
Julia, please.
His voice was pleading.
Give me a chance.
One real chance.
You’ll see how good we’ll be together.
Travis, you’re hurting me.
She tried to reach his mind.
Let me go and we can talk calmly.
His grip loosened for a moment, and Julia used it to break free.
She took a step back, rubbing her wrist, which was already starting to bruise.
“That’s all, Travis,” she said, trying to keep her voice from shaking.
“I’m going to Darius.
You’ve overstepped your bounds.
” She turned and walked quickly out of the back room without looking back.
Her heart was pounding frantically in her chest.
It wasn’t until she was in Darius’s office behind a closed door that she allowed herself to exhale.
Darius Parker was a reserved man with a neat, short beard and attentive eyes.
He listened silently to Julia’s story, occasionally asking clarifying questions.
His face remained impassive, but his eyes showed growing concern.
“And you say he knew personal details about your life?” he asked when Julia had finished.
Things he could only learn by watching you at home.
Yes, she nodded.
He knew how I sleep when I have nightmares.
It scares me, Mr. Parker.
I don’t feel safe.
Darius sighed and rubbed his chin.
Julia, what you’re describing is serious.
It’s not just inappropriate behavior in the workplace.
It’s harassment and possibly other violations of the law.
Darius straightened up in his chair and took on a determined look.
I’m calling Travis in right now.
Will you fire him? Julia asked hopefully, rubbing her wrist, which was already bruised from Travis’s grip.
Absolutely.
Darius nodded.
Walmart’s corporate policy strictly prohibits any form of harassment or threats.
What you’ve described is more than enough to warrant immediate dismissal without reinstatement.
He picked up the phone and dialed an extension.
Cheryl, please locate Travis Benson and ask him to report to my office immediately.
1 second, pause.
Yes, immediately and call security.
Darius hung up the phone and turned to Julia.
I would also recommend that you file a formal police report.
In situations like this, it’s best to be safe, especially if you think he might have broken into your house.
Julia nodded, feeling a little relieved that her problem was finally being taken seriously.
I’ll do it tonight.
The wait for Travis to show up seemed like an eternity.
Darius offered Julia a cup of water which she accepted gratefully trying to calm her nerves.
Finally, there was a knock on the door and Cheryl, the staff administrator, entered.
Mr. Parker, we can’t find Travis Benson, she reported.
He’s not in the department and no one has seen him since his shift started.
Darius frowned.
Was he sure he came to work today? Yes, he checked in at the entrance at 8:00 this morning, Cheryl confirmed, but he was nowhere to be found.
Julia felt the fear returning.
He was in the back with me about half an hour ago, she said.
After we talked, she stopped talking, suddenly frightened at the thought of where Travis might have gone.
“Cheryl, make sure he hasn’t left the building,” Darius said quickly.
“And have security review the security tapes.
We need to know where he is.
” Cheryl nodded and walked out.
Darius turned to Julia.
It looks like he realized you were going to complain and decided to run away.
That only confirms that he realized the wrongdoing of his actions.
He was silent for a moment, then added, “Whether we find him now or not, he’s fired.
I will personally see to it that his belongings are packed up and sent to his home and his pass is blocked.
” Cheryl returned 10 minutes later with the news.
He left the building through the service exit 40 minutes ago.
The cameras recorded him walking briskly to the parking lot, getting into his car, and driving away.
Darius turned to Julia.
“You said you were living with your mother.
” “Yes.
” She nodded, feeling the panic rising.
“Call her right now,” Darius advised.
“Make sure she’s all right.
” Julia reached for her phone with shaky hands and dialed her mother’s number.
The dial tone came one after another, but there was no answer.
She tried again with the same result.
She’s not answering, Julia whispered, her heart skipping a beat.
She should be home.
It’s her day off.
“Cheryl, call the police,” Darius ordered immediately.
“Tell them we have a possible stalking situation and that the suspect may be a threat.
” He turned to Julia.
“Maybe it’s okay.
Maybe your mother just can’t hear the phone or went out to the store, but it’s best not to take any chances.
” Julia nodded, trying to suppress the rising panic.
She dialed her mother’s number again and again, but each time she heard only endless ringing.
“Julia,” Darius said softly, “the police are on their way.
You can go home right now if you want.
I’ll send someone from security with you.
” “Yes, thank you,” she nodded, standing up.
“I have to make sure she’s okay.
” The drive home was the longest ride of her life, even though the Walmart security guard escorting her was speeding every leg of the way.
Julia kept dialing her mother’s number, each time with increasing desperation.
When they finally turned onto Maple Street, Julia was relieved to see her mother’s car in the driveway.
That meant she was home.
But relief was quickly replaced by a new wave of fear.
It was the old dark blue Honda she’d seen in the Walmart parking lot when Travis came to work.
“That’s his car,” she pointed to the security guard, feeling her heart sink.
“He’s here.
Stay in the car,” the guard ordered, pulling out a walkie-talkie.
I’m calling for backup, but Julia couldn’t wait.
Her mother was out there, possibly in danger.
She jumped out of the car before the guard could stop her and rushed toward the house.
The front door was a jar, a bad sign.
Julia burst inside, screaming, “Mom, mom, are you here?” There was no answer.
There was an ominous silence in the house.
She ran through the living room into the kitchen, then peered into the dining room.
No one.
She checked the first floor bathroom, her mother’s study, empty.
The guard followed her, cautiously, inspecting each room.
“The police are on their way,” he said.
“We’d better wait outside.
” “No, my mother is here.
” Julia shook her head stubbornly and headed for the stairs to the second floor.
As she climbed the stairs, she heard voices.
A quiet pleading voice from her mother and a lower, tense voice from Travis.
They were coming from her bedroom.
The guard tried to stop her, but Julia was already at the door.
She swung it open and froze in horror.
Lauren was sitting on the edge of the bed, her face pale and fear in her eyes.
Across from her by the window, stood Travis.
He had a gun in his hand, pointed at the floor, but ready to rise at any moment.
“Julia,” he said with a smile, as if welcoming a long-awaited guest.
“You came home early.
I wanted to prepare a surprise for you.
” “Travis,” she said carefully, taking a slow step into the room.
“What are you doing? Why did you come here?” “I came to get you,” he answered simply, as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
“We should be together, Julia.
I’ve prepared everything for you.
We’ll go far away from here.
Start a new life.
Just you and me.
Julia, go away, Lauren said quietly.
But Travis raised his gun sharply, pointing it at her.
Shut up, he shouted.
Stay out of this.
She has to make her own choice.
It’s okay, Mom, Julia said, trying to keep her voice calm.
Travis, let’s talk.
Just you and me.
Just put the gun down, please.
The Walmart security guard quietly retreated into the hallway, probably calling for backup.
Julia prayed they wouldn’t burst in with sirens and provoke Travis into something irreparable.
“What should we talk about?” Travis asked, relaxing slightly, but not lowering his gun.
“You’ve already said everything.
You went to Darius to get me fired.
You chose Maxwell over me.
You rejected my love.
” “I was scared,” Julia said, taking another cautious step into the room.
“You scared me, Travis.
The way you watched me, the way you approached this.
That’s not how it’s done.
How is it done? He asked bitterly.
I was paying attention.
I cared.
I studied everything you like to make you happy.
Isn’t that love? Love is built on reciprocity and respect, Julia said softly as she continued to approach slowly, not on fear and coercion.
She could see the emotions struggling on Travis’s face.
Part of him seemed to realize the truth in her words, but the darker, obsessive part didn’t want to give in.
I’m giving you one last chance, Julia, he finally said, his voice suddenly clear and cold.
The choice is simple.
Either you stay with me or you die.
Travis, “No,” Lauren exclaimed, jumping up from the bed.
“Sit down,” he shouted, pointing the gun at her.
Julia took the moment to take another step forward.
“Travis,” she said quietly, drawing his attention back to herself.
“I can’t be with you.
Not like this.
Not under threat.
I could never love a man who threatens me and my family.
Something changed in his eyes.
Hope replaced by cold determination.
“Then you’ve made your choice,” he said, raising the gun and pointing it directly at Julia.
“Travis, please,” she whispered, frozen in place.
“Don’t do this.
I love you, Julia,” he said with frightening calm.
“So much so that I can’t let you be with anyone else.
” The first shot sounded deafening in the small room.
Julia felt a sharp pain in her shoulder and jerked backward.
A second shot followed.
A third.
A fourth.
She fell to the floor, feeling each bullet pierce through her body.
A fifth.
Sixth.
Seventh.
Lauren’s screams came as if through absorbent cotton.
Julia saw her mother rush toward her, covering her with her body, begging Travis to stop.
But it was too late.
Julia felt the life leaving her.
The pain became distant and the sounds became muffled.
She saw her mother’s face contorted with horror above her, heard the police sirens in the distance, saw Travis frozen with a gun in his hand, staring at what he had done.
A sudden realization seemed to come over him.
He looked at the gun in his hand, then at the bleeding Julia, and his face contorted with horror.
“No,” he whispered.
No, no, no, Julia.
He took a step toward her, but then recoiled as if he couldn’t bear the sight of what he had done.
The gun fell from his weakened hand, clattering loudly to the floor.
I didn’t mean to.
His voice shook.
I just wanted you to love me.
From downstairs came the shouts of police officers running into the house.
Travis looked at the door, then at the window, and made a decision.
He rushed to the window, swung it open, and jumped out without looking back.
The last thing Julia saw before the world fell into darkness was her mother’s crying face, leaning over her, begging her to hold on, promising that help was near.
But Julia knew that help was too late.
Too many shots, too much blood.
Darkness closed in around her, and her last thought was one of regret, of unfulfilled plans, of unfulfilled love with Maxwell, of a mother who would be alone.
And from somewhere far away, like an echo of the past, came Travis’s words, “I love you so much, I can’t let you be with anyone else.
” Travis ran.
He scrambled through backyards, climbed over fences, squeezed through hedges.
His hands were covered in blood.
Julie’s blood, and the thought made him run even faster, as if he could run away from what he’d done.
Travis didn’t know where he was running to.
There was no plan, no safe haven, no future.
“I just wanted you to love me,” he whispered, stopping under a massive tree.
The sounds of police sirens grew closer.
“Soon they would find him.
Soon it would all be over.
” But the memory of Julia, of her smile, of her gaze as the bullets pierced her body, that memory would stay with him forever.
Even if forever lasted only a few hours or days for
