Page 84 of Another Girl Lost

“The homeless girl.”

“She shows up when she’s out of money and needs a hit. I give her food but never money anymore.”

The woman stilled and grimaced. “And I just gave her money.”

“It’s a natural reaction. But she’s not going to use it well.”

“She’ll spend it on drugs.” She shook her head. “Clearly, I’m tired. I should know better.”

“It’s an easy mistake to make.”

“I’ll remember, no more money for the redhead.”

“Thanks.”

“Let’s grab a drink tonight? You can give me the rundown on the area.”

I hesitated, remembering most offerings of a drink or lunch never happened. “Sure.”

“Text me a place. About seven?”

“Perfect.”

“Nice to meet you, Scarlett.”

“You too, Della.”

Her smile froze. “My name is Margo.”

“Sorry. That’s right. You remind me of someone I knew once.”

“Hopefully she was a fantastic person.”

My stomach tightened. “She was. Is.”

Even white teeth flashed. “See you soon, Scarlett.”

She vanished into the sedan, and I watched as she drove east.

Margo.

Not Della.

Margo.

Not Della.

I hadn’t screamed. Reached for my phone and called 9-1-1. Sure, I’d called her Della, but on Scarlett’s Unbalanced Scale, it registered low.

I hurried toward the Belmont and pressed the intercom button.

“Yes?” The static male voice sounded annoyed. It had to be Dave.

“I just met Margo, and I’ve already forgotten her last name.”

“I can’t give out resident information.”

“Come on, Dave. It’s Scarlett from across the street.”

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