Page 220 of The Anti-Heroes Collection

It’s the honest to God, ugly truth.

I’m so sorry.

I hope you will find it in your heart to forgive me one day. I know it’s not fair that I’m asking you to forgive me.

But I need to try.

Some things are happening. Things I’m afraid to put in writing. I don’t think I’ll make it out of here.

Erin isn’t who I thought she was. I saw her talking to Brad, my cellmate. I think there is something going on between them. I don’t trust either of them.

Something feels off.

I’m going to try to reach you, but if I don’t, please protect Payton. She was my second chance. When I met her, she was a scared little girl. She looked at me like I hung the moon from the sky, like I was her savior, and in a way, I was.

They were homeless, dirty, and destitute. I fell in love with being the dad I could never be to you and Ivy. It was too late by then. You both were older, and I had royally fucked up, but with her, I had a second chance.

I need you to put aside your feelings for me and take care of her. I know that’s a lot to ask, but I know you are a good man.

You are a better man than I’ll ever be.

I used to think your kindness was a weakness I needed to drill out of you.

I was wrong.

I’m sorry.

Love,

Dad

My heart rattles in my chest.

This is his dying confession.

Emotions I’m not used to gnaw at me.

Guilt.

Sadness.

Regret.

I read the letter over and over again.

What did he mean, Erin isn’t who he thought she was?

I keep reading it, and every time I do, more questions arise.

My father knew he was going to die.

He left the money to Payton because he didn’t trust Erin . . . but he also said to protect Payton, so that means she’s in danger.

Then it hits me . . .

The last piece of the puzzle falls into place.

Dad’s cellmate.

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