Mystic

Autumn for Jay had always been cold, and this time actually colder. But it was warmer for her this time around. When people resorted to scarfs and coat already, she adapted nothing but full sleeves shirt and trousers. As if nothing was affecting her like it did before.

Present morning, Chris was at their home and her odd uniform for the weather caught his attention. The fall fever was at rise and was dangerous as well. Jay had always fell prone to this particular illness, and kept herself shut refusing aid. Such a light attire would claim her health again.

"Wear something heavier Jay", he half suggested and half requested," It's breezy cold out there". And he expected a usual sound of the door of ignorance.

"It's warmer inside the walls", came a reply.

Chris was slightly amused. Seldom, or never she talks her mind out like that. Her tone and voice were calm and low too.

He decided to encourage it further," Take'em off in class then", he said," Don't wanna get caught up in the epidemic again".

Surprisingly, Jay didn't argue further. She honored her habit of obedience again as she lazily strolled back to her room.

Chris noticed the obvious change in her almost immediately. Her eyes had transformed, different than before. The depth and intensity in them were shallow. They didn't reflect darkness anymore, instead it was bliss. Jay is also spending her time outside besides her classes, specially in Autumn. She always kept herself locked in during this while.

Is it because she has some company? Is it the one over whom Arthur and she had argued a while back? The details weren't known to Chris. Only a sudden approach of an older guy, acquainted with Jay and seemed strange.

But somehow, it made him feel uneasy too.

It's been years and no one could impose any change on Jay. If something or something bears this capability, then the person must be very special.

It could be that, it is some powerful force she is dealing with. Might be, insanely pure ...…or, devastatingly corrupted!

Arthur couldn't look in to it and gave up, but it must be studied to ensure even if it is safe enough ...…for Jay.

Interrupting his thoughts, Jay appeared wearing a muffler and a beanie. Her eyes scanned Chris, asking for approval.

He smiled gently and nodded once," You sure look brightened up these days".

Jay cocked her head a little and Chris could have sworn he caught her lips pucker up in to a little smile as she spoke," Do I?".

He decided to let that go," At least you don't shut in yourself anymore", he said rubbing his hands in the apron.

Jay quickly stole away from his gaze.

So, it is true that she's indeed changing.

"Run before you run late", Chris ushered her with a tint of humor.

Jay was already at the door.

Chris did let her go this time without further inquiry as he decided to take this slower and his way. He will adopt a different method from Arthur because he doesn't want to spoil Jay's momentarily cheerful moments. Being smarter, he knows what to do. Studying Jay these many years, he knows how to handle her out, coz there's no fucking way she would speak up on her personal affairs.

But he surely needs to keep his guard up and keep an eye on her. Arthur and her had been on silent terms since that day, and the aura around the house was dark with both of them together. The mysterious guy must be the reason behind all this.

Who is this guy?

How could he penetrate Jay's shell so easily?

Is this fair enough?

…...or safe enough?

What is Jay getting herself in to?