I opened my car door and walked up the steps into the police station.
It was small and surprisingly welcoming, with potted plants dotted around both outside and in.
The lighting was bright, and for a moment, I actually felt… safe.
“Hello,” I said to the deputy at the counter.
He stood, offering a friendly smile.
“Hello—you’re the new teacher.”
Some of the tension in my chest eased.
“Yes, Juliette Morgan,” I said, holding out my hand.
He glanced down before shaking it.
“I’m Carlton. What can I do for you?”
My smile faltered.
“I’d like to make a complaint.”
He dropped my hand and frowned.
“You’d like to report a crime?”
“Kind of. Could I speak to the person in charge of the station? It’s a—um—delicate situation.”
His eyes widened briefly.
“Sure, sure. Take a seat. I’ll see if the sheriff’s free.”
I turned to the waiting area—six seats, three on either side.
I sat, clutching my bag to my chest.
It was a small station.
I couldn’t imagine there being more than a few members of staff.
Each minute stretched painfully, dragging on like an hour.
The clock on the wall ticked louder and louder.
The smaller hand—the one marking the seconds—helped pace my breathing.
In and out.
Slow, deep breaths.
The ticking continued.
Chapter 7
Kade
The eviction notice would need serving, but the townspeople would probably rally around the Smither family. I was about to call Grammy when there was a knock at my door. Carlton strolled in and slumped into the chair with a smug smirk.
