Page 1 of After Effect

Chapter 1

Finch Corbin

“So what’s up, Finchy? Did you suddenly get a new idea for my next album?” Lilly Cisneros sat across from me at ‘Roast of the Magi,’ a trendy new coffee shop off Sunset and Vine. She wore sunglasses over her dark eyes, and tied her long, dark brown hair back in a ball cap, hoping she might disguise herself just enough to dissuade the usual onslaught of fans. Though that exquisite voice and Latin charm could hardly be contained by a few well-placed accessories.

“Not quite.” I handed her the manila envelope full of photos. She pulled out the pages one by one, examining each image as though she was auditioning for a lead role as a forensic scientist. Once she reached the last page, she slid the photos back into their envelope and sat back in her chair.

“Where did you get this?” Her voice had lost its usual playful luster.

“Someone left it on my doorstep and rang the doorbell. They were gone before I managed to answer.”

“Couldn’t get dressed fast enough, I’d wager.” Lilly rolled her eyes. “I can still smell her on you, you know. You couldn’t have at least showered first before coming to see me.”

“This felt too urgent.” I heaved a sigh. Poor judgement on my part. Where was my head? “Whether you approve of my relationship or not is hardly the point right now.”

A smile returned to Lilly’s lips, and she relaxed into her chair. “Of course, of course. I guess I can’t be too mad if your first thought was to come see me.” Her arrogance never falters. Though she wasn’t wrong. I’ve known Lilly for the better part of ten years. The better part of my life after the crash. And just through the better parts of my life. She was a constant who I could always rely on, her support never even wavering in the harshest parts of our break up. Our relationship may have been over, but our friendship never would be.

Naomi was who I wanted, now and in the future, but I didn’t want to include her in my past if I didn’t have to. I would tell her everything once the coast was clear. I knew that was selfish, and she would see it as unfair, but… I would rather be selfish than put her in danger. Though perhaps getting involved with me has already put her in danger.

I shook my head to dismiss the thought and returned my attention to Lilly. “’All debts must one day be paid.’” I recited the final note from memory. “I barely even know what counts as debt anymore. I think we’ve both racked up enough to file for bankruptcy.”

“Bankruptcy… or maybe a really nice pair of coffins.” She chuckled, an inappropriate amount of amusement in her eyes. “You know, our contract is still valid even into the afterlife. Don’t think you’ll get to slack off if this turns sour.”

“I’m not sure which one of us should have gotten a better lawyer.” I laughed.

If I had to go through hell, at least I knew she would be there with me.

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