AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“The woman who streaked across the football field and got arrested a few years ago?”
“Yeah, well now she’s in prison. Drugs—obviously. Anyway, she’s in the same prison as Rowan. Word is, she heard about the baby from someone who visited her.”
I am very aware of the intensity in Emma’s eyes. I sigh and drag my fingers through my hair. Truth is, I’m relieved. And, also, I feel bad for Rowan. It’s clear the woman is extremely mentally unstable—considering she killed three women—and I’m sure this news only exacerbates her condition.
“How did she take it, do you know?”
Emma shakes her head. “Nope, Chris just told me that she found out and that’s literally all I know.”
I take another deep breath and lean back in my chair.
“Well, it doesn’t really matter now, does it? Nothing she can do about it now.”
FIFTY-SIX
KELLAN
From: [email protected]
Subject: Tree
Kellan,
Please go to our old spot at The Cliff. Do you remember which tree was my favorite? I called her Laverne? She’s the one on your right, as you’re facing the cliff.
Buried on the north side, between two roots, is a metal box.
The combination is your birthday.
Open it and then come see me.
I’ve finally decided to fight.
I love you.
Rowan
FIFTY-SEVEN
KELLAN
My heart hammers as I stare down at the corner of the silver metal box. I toss the shovel to the side and drop to my knees. Rain runs down my face, pouring off the tip of my nose as I use my hands to brush away the rest of the mud.
Finally, I’m able to unwedge the box from the roots. A combination lock secures the top from the bottom.
I push up to stand, cradle the box under my arm and jog to my truck so that whatever is in it, won’t get wet.
I slide behind the wheel and shut and lock the door.
After wiping away the remaining dirt with the sleeve of my shirt, I spin the lock, using my birthday as the code.
My hands tremble as I open the box.
On top is an envelope. In it, a handful of letters, handwritten by Rowan.
FIFTY-EIGHT
