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I won’t let anyone touch you again.
Who did this?
My erratic thoughts matched my wild heartbeat. The silence was awful, but she didn’t need me to push. She hadn’t called me because she wanted me. I was her last resort, and I wouldn’t delude myself into thinking otherwise.
Whether I was first choice or last didn’t matter.
She needed me.
I wouldn’t let her down again.
Her phone rang. She jumped like she was terrified of everything.
I glanced at the screen.
Father.
She didn’t move. It was almost as if she no longer heard the ringtone echoing in the car.
No sooner than the noise stopped, it began again.
She remained still, staring straight ahead.
Had he done this to her?
It rang for a third time, but there was no notification for a voicemail once the noise ceased.
A text message flashed on the screen.
Answer when I call.
She didn’t read it.
Say something. Say something that will let her know everything is going to be all right.
The words wouldn’t come. She’d always stolen my thoughts, but this was different. I felt helpless.
Once again, I’d driven without remembering how I’d gotten here. My building came into view. I parked in an empty spot a few blocks away.
Shit. She had no shoes.
Did she want to stay in the car?
Once upon a time, she’d felt safe here. But I needed light to see just how much damage was done.
I opened her door and scooped her into my arms. Her phone fell from her hand onto the seat. I shoved it in my pocket and cradled her like she was the most important thing on this earth.
Please don’t let any of the neighbors be out.
I didn’t need them prying into my business, especially when they’d already had their fill for the week.
I unlocked the door to the building and took the steps two at a time until we reached my floor.
Old Man Casey heaved his trash into the chute. He made a disgruntled noise, but thankfully didn’t say anything as he shuffled past.
I shoved in my front door and flipped on the light switch.
Beau blinked.
