Page 63 of Absolution

“Muffn,” she says and looks questioningly at me.

“Muffin,” I correct her.

Evan shoots to his feet. “I’ll help you.”

We make our way up the stairs. My stomach churns as I look at him. I don’t like that he’s in trouble. He’s made some really, really bad choices, but he doesn’t deserve to get hurt over them.

“I’ll be in touch,” I say.

Evan attacks me with a firm hug. I pat him awkwardly.

“Thank you, Kerry! For everything. I’m so happy I met you today!”

I’m not, but I give him a skewed smile and turn the stroller back toward the docks. I feel as if my life just took a turn for the worse. How will this affect me? Why did he have to show up and unload his shit on me? I have enough trouble as it is. Salvatore hasn’t been in touch. Yet. Every day I live in terror, fearing the call, fearing men suddenly appearing in front of me, demanding I come with them. It’s a nightmare I can’t wake from. I really didn’t need more of the same.

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