Page 71 of Filthy Savage

Finally finding my phone under one of Fia’s dishes, I glance at the screen, noticing a missed text from the sitter. When I open it, I clutch my chest. She’s in the hospital with a minor leg injury she got from a car accident earlier today.

I shoot back a reply, telling her not to worry and that I hope she’s okay, but now I’m out a sitter. Pinching the bridge of my nose, I scramble with what to do. It’s the weekend. Maybe Emily can sit for me.

When I call her, she answers immediately.

“Hey, Amara. What’s up?”

“Em, I need a favor. Is there any way you can watch Fia today? My sitter had an accident and canceled this morning, and I’m already late for work.”

“Oh no! I’m sorry. You know I would, but I’m at a job interview. They’re about to call me in.”

“I’m so sorry. I forgot! Good luck, okay? Let me know how it goes. And break a leg and all that.”

“Thanks! Hey, maybe Lilith or Patricia can help. Did you text them?”

“No, but I will.” My pulse races.

I can’t lose the job at the vet clinic. It has amazing health benefits. Though I hate leaving Fia with people who’ve never babysat her. Sure, both Patricia and Lilith have spent a lot of time with her, but they’ve never actually watched her.

“Let me know what they say! Love you,” Emily whispers. “I’ve gotta go. I’ll call you later.”

“Love you too. Good luck again.”

Dropping the call, I text both of the girls and get replies immediately. Patricia is busy helping her mom at her bakery, but Lilith is available.

Lilith

I can be there in fifteen.

Amara

You’re the best. Thank you!

Lilith

Of course. I love Fia.

Amara

You don’t know how much this means to me.

I text my boss and let her know that I’ve had an emergency, and she assures me that the other girl can cover until I’m in.Thankfully, she’s very understanding, having been a single mom herself. I’m very lucky, but I don’t want to push my luck either.

When there’s a knock not even fifteen minutes later, relief washes over me. As soon as I open the door, Lilith is grinning, holding a white paper bag.

“I brought my favorite girl some goodies for later.”

“Thank you.” Giving her a tight hug, I let her in. “Please make yourself at home. Grab whatever you want from the fridge.”

“Thanks. I’ll be fine.”

As soon as Fia sees her, she starts giggling.

“There’s my little giggle monster.” Lilith rushes for her, tickling her while my daughter laughs.

I’m so thankful Emily introduced me to these girls. It’s nice to have a village, and I’m grateful for it every day.

“Okay, Mommy has to go now.” I kiss Fia on the forehead and stare at her for a moment, my heart bursting.

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