Page 124 of Molt

I shake her. “Lenora.”

Nothing.

“Lenora. Please baby.”

No, I wasn’t ready.

“Wake up.”

Come on please. Don’t take her away from me.

“Please.”

Nothing.

I scream her name until someone pulls me away.

The memory shifts.

Rain. A black door. My clothes soaked through. A piece of paper crushed in my fist. An address given to me by someone who whispered about a man who could return what death had stolen.

I knock.

The door opens.

Gray hair. Black coat.

That smile.

“How badly do you want her back?”

I remember my answer now.

“More than anything in this world.” I say.

He hesitates. “What would you give?”

“Everything.” The answer is instantaneous.

His smile widens. “Careful.”

“I don’t care.” I rush out. Because I don’t, I just want her.

“You will.” He smirks, tilting his head watching me closely.

“Bring her back.” I beg.

He doesn’t answer right away. He studies for a second longer before saying anything. “She can’t come back from nothing.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Death has already taken the vessel.”

“Then make another.” The words leave my mouth.

Mine.

Fuck.