Page 99 of Losing the Rhythm

“So you know then?”

“All I know is that you’re someone who needs to be here. Justin knew and brought you. And you know, too, that’s why you let him and why you’re still here. I don’t ask for stories, no one here will. I just wanted to let you know, I’m glad you’re taking this chance here with me. Justin is a wonderful man, and when I saw you here with him, I knew you were just as wonderful.”

Miya stood up.

“I’m the same. I need this too. I know the feelings a person faces coming here, the emotions that hit like a brick suddenly the first time you realize you do have control in your life. I hope I’ll see you around more often.”

She went back to helping the students.

I didn’t move from the bench, instead opting to watch for the rest of the class. Tears were definitely shed by different students, for good or for bad. Each time, Miya was there to talk to them and give them whichever comfort they’d accept.

Class wrapped up and Justin stuck around to help clean up. I got so lost in my thoughts, I didn’t realize right away that it was only Justin and me left behind in the big empty room.

“How are you doing?” he asked me.

“I’m not sure,” I admitted. “This wasn’t what I expected. I grew up around Lindie, but I never thought about returning it. Why would I make others feel what I’ve had to face? I didn’t want that, so classes like these never crossed my mind.”

“Just remember, it’s about protection.”

The way Justin said it made me wonder if he had to remind himself about that.

“Justin, what’s going on?” I asked.

“Where is that question coming from?”

“I’m not blind. Something is going on. What is it? I understand if you don’t want to tell me. I get not wanting to talk about everything. I just want to be able to help you if I can.”

“Cadence, it’s fine. Take a breath.”

I stopped rambling like an idiot.

“I’ve only talked to Seth about it. I found out about it on Tuesday and frankly, I’m still trying to process it.”

“What’s going on?” I was prepared for the worst? Is he sick? Did he get bad news?

Justin swallowed hard and I reached out, grabbing his hand, feeling the need to hold on to him. He switched our hand position so that our fingers were laced together. His grip tightened.

“My dad will be released.”

“What?”

“He’s terminally ill. The doctors determined he maybe has a year at most left. I’m not sure of the condition. While the news was being relayed to me, after they told me, I had trouble hearing.”

“Your dad is dying. The man who abused you is dying. Your mother’s murderer is dying.”

Justin blinked furiously. “Yeah,” he croaked out.

I couldn’t begin to understand what was going through his mind. It could go so many directions. Did he hate his dad? Love him still?

“How long was he supposed to be in jail for?”

“Fifteen. He’s served six.”

“Do you know yet what the expectation is?”

“What do you mean?”

“If he’s released, are you expected to live with him?”

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