Page 107 of Luci’s Lullaby

“Alden, this is for the best, trust me.” She rubs my arm.

I jerk away, staring at her. “I’ll be the judge of that, Miss Moxy.”

Reese stands by the elevator with Aksel. I don’t even slow up as the doors open. Reese punches the down button a hundred times until the door closes. No one speaks on the ride down.

Reese hits the lock on her door, and we all get in.

“What a piece of shit. I hate her. I’m going to take her down” Reese fumes.

“How am I supposed to leave them? I’ll lose everything.” I rub the center of my chest as it begins to ache.

Reese grinds her teeth. “I’m not sure how you can’t. She’ll sue you for everything and ruin your career.”

“I’m sorry, I had no idea she was like this. I’ll see if I can come up with something to help you.” Aksel rubs his neck.

“She has you under contract, Aksel. There’s nothing you can do.” Reese looks back at him.

“I don’t have anyone to watch Luci.” My chest tightens, restricting my breathing.

Reese takes my hand. “We’ll figure it out.”

“I have to leave Charlee too.” My hands tremble at the thought.