Page 132 of The Sinner: James

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RAIN

I callhim again and again. No answer.

It’s getting ridiculous. It’s almost five in the afternoon, and my mind spins frantically, trying to find a reasonable explanation.

There’s little chance I can find him at Red’s. It’s too early.

Besides, he’s rarely there during the week. Maybe he’s on a business trip, or maybe I’m just a fool.

I slip into a pair of jeans and throw a T-shirt on before walking out the door.

I’ll try his office. Hopefully, I’ll find someone there.

Without too many options left, I slip into my car, and minutes later, I roll into the covered parking lot of a tall building made of steel, glass, and concrete.

Before long, I stride across the lobby and enter a vast reception area.

The receptionist, an older lady with piercing eyes and stiff hair, nips my hope in the bud.

“He hasn’t been in the building all day, and we don’t expect him to stop by today,” she says, glancing at the wall clock.

It’s almost six o’clock.

I saunter back to my car, torn and filled with angst.

Something doesn’t feel right.

Sunk in thought, I walk across the parking lot when a black Bugatti pulls in.

My heart pounds like an iron fist as I recognize his ride.

The car comes to a complete stop when the profile of a woman flashes on the passenger side.

My mouth falls open, my knees softening.

Shaking, I hide behind a concrete column and peer at her.

The doors slide open, and a young blonde pushes her heels-clad legs out of his ride before rising to her feet.

My heart stops for a second.

She wears a tailored dress, a designer bag, and matching shoes. She looks at him as he climbs out of the car.

They’re both in a great mood, sharing a peal of laughter.

I step out of my hiding place.

Her expression changes swiftly as I catch her eye.

I read curiosity––and perhaps pity––in her eyes.

She seems taken aback by the emotions on my face while I’m still standing in the middle of the parking lot, staring at her, dumbstruck, as the world I used to know comes to an end.

He follows her gaze until his eyes meet mine, and his expression shifts as well.

He motions her to the building. She scurries away and vanishes into the elevator.

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