Page 67 of Silent Prayer

Finn's hand on her shoulder was warm and reassuring. "I think you are. And I think Natalie would be proud of you."

At the mention of her sister, the dam broke. Sheila felt the tears she'd been holding back for so long finally spill over. Finn pulled her into a hug, and she let herself be held, her body shaking with silent sobs.

When she finally pulled away, wiping her eyes, she saw understanding in Finn's gaze. No judgment, no pity. Just acceptance and something else...something that made her heart race.

"No pressure," Finn added. "It's your life. I guess…I guess I just want you to know that I believe in you."

Sheila smiled and leaned in, their lips meeting in a kiss that felt like coming home.

When they finally parted, Sheila felt a newfound sense of purpose. "Maybe you're right," she said. "Maybe I am ready to be sheriff. But only if I have you by my side."

Finn grinned. "Always, partner. Always. Now…" He placed both hands on her shoulders and stared into her eyes. "I want you to do something very important for me."

"Okay…" Sheila said, drawing the word out.

"I want you to go home, shower, and get some sleep. You need it."

Sheila grunted. "Okay, but don't think this means you can give me orders. I might be your boss soon, after all."

Finn rolled his eyes. "Oh, boy. It's already getting to your head."

She smiled innocently. "It's your fault for suggesting the idea."

***

Sheila stepped out of the shower, wrapping herself in a fluffy towel. The hot water had washed away some of the physical exhaustion, but it had done nothing to slow her feverish thoughts.

Finn's words echoed in her head as she dried her hair:You'd make an amazing sheriff.

She stared at her reflection in the foggy mirror. Could she really do it? Take on the responsibility of leading the entire department? The thought was both exhilarating and terrifying.

As she walked into her bedroom, her eyes fell on a framed photo of Natalie on her dresser. Her sister's smile, frozen in time, seemed to offer encouragement. Sheila picked up the frame, running her thumb over the glass.

"What would you think, Nat?" she whispered. "Am I crazy for even considering this?"

A muffled thud from down the hall interrupted her thoughts. Sheila tensed for a moment before remembering: Star. The teenager she'd taken in was probably just rummaging around in her room.

Sheila sighed, setting down the photo. Star was another responsibility, another challenge she'd taken on. The girl had been through so much, and connecting with her was proving to be difficult. But Sheila was determined to help her, to give her the stability and support she desperately needed.

As she got dressed, Sheila's mind drifted to Finn again. Their relationship was progressing so quickly, and she felt an ease and familiarity with him that she hadn't expected to find with anyone. This was wonderful, but it also complicated things. If she became sheriff, would their personal relationship affect their professional one?

Sheila shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. She was overthinking everything. Right now, she needed sleep. She could worry about the future tomorrow.

Just as she was about to climb into bed, a soft knock came at her door.

"Sheila?" Star's voice was hesitant. "Are you awake?"

Sheila opened the door to find the teenager standing there, looking uncomfortable. "What's up, Star? Everything okay?"

Star shrugged, not meeting Sheila's eyes. "I just...I heard about what happened. With the Coldwater Confessor. I wanted to make sure you were alright."

Sheila felt a warmth in her chest. This was the first time Star had reached out like this. "I'm okay, Star. Thank you for asking. It's been a long couple of days, but it's over now."

Star nodded, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. "That's good. I'm glad you're safe." She paused, then added quickly, "Goodnight," before darting back to her room.

Sheila watched her go, a small smile on her face. It wasn't much, but it was progress.

Finally settling into bed, Sheila felt the exhaustion of the past few days washing over her. Her eyelids grew heavy, and she was just about to drift off when her phone buzzed on the nightstand.

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