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“Everything will work out.”
“What is the latest in Gotham?” I ask, changing the subject. I’m tired of talking about Fiona.
"Everything is the same. Our father hasn't made any sudden decisions as of late. Cillian seems to be away in business. At least it's the story roaming around."
"And the men?"
"Better. Morale seems to be improving. There hasn't been any fights among the men. But we will have to wait and see if things change once Cillian makes an appearance."
I find myself wanting to ask about Ava. Is she happy? Is she safe? But no. I won't ask. That door needs to remain closed for now. I can’t bring her home. But once my child is born, all bets are off. I’ll divorce Fiona and marry Ava. I can give her the happy ending I know she wants and deserves. I just need her to hold tight until the child is born.
Chapter Eighteen
Ava
The weather is finally great. The sun is finally shining. I am over the five-day streak of rain. It was so depressing. I’ve practically only been to work. It’s nice to finally be outside, even if it’s for laundry. Lisa keeps trying to get me to do a pick-up service or letting her do it. It’s thoughtful, but I’m pregnant, not disabled. I mean, the laundromat is a few doors from our building. I’m perfectly safe. Besides, I don’t want to waste my day inside the apartment.
“Hi Ava,” Betty greets.
“Hi, Betty. How are you?”
“Good and you?”
“Happy that the rain has finally stopped. It was bumming me out.”
“It was about time. Dropping off?” She asks.
“Yes. When will it be ready?” I wasn’t going to drop it off, but it’s so beautiful outside. I don’t want to let the day waste.
“It’s pretty slow. I should have it before closing.”
“No rush. Thanks, Betty.”
“You're welcome. Go enjoy some Vitamin D.” She winks.
I leave without a clue of what I want to do. I couldn’t leave the house fast enough. I decide to take a walk and window shop. It’s been a while. The thought makes me think of Tina. I miss her so much. On days like these, I wish she was here. Hearing her complain or sharing her latest adventure. But I made a decision, and I have to stick by it. I can’t risk her knowing my secret. It’s bad enough that Oliver and Fiona know.
Three stores later and nothing. Tina would be disappointed. I haven’t found a thing. If Tina were here, she would tell me to just buy anything. The thought makes me smile. I am about to go to the next store when I run into someone. It practically feels like I ran into a statue.
“Sorry,” I tell the very large man in front of me. I try to walk around him, but he blocks me.“Excuse me,” I say, but he stays in place. I turn around to leave, but there is another man. I go into my purse.“Here is my wallet. I don’t want any trouble.” I say, thinking they are probably trying to rob me.
“We must crack on. Lots to do.” The one man says. I have no idea what he is saying, but his eyes are deadly.
“Take my wallet. I won’t say anything.”
“She is a fine thing. Boss didn’t say anything about that.”
“We have a job to do?” Then it hits me. This is not a robbery. These men are here because of Viktor. He learned I’m pregnant and has sent them to take me to him.
“You tell Viktor I want nothing to do with him.” I try to sound tough but my voice cracks.
“She thinks that fella is our boss.” They laugh. I look around, trying to look for an escape route. It’s daylight. Where is everyone? With limited options, I try to run.
“She is a gas, thinking she could run.” Their laugh is dark, scary even. One of them grabs me.
“Let me go. I don’t know who you are working for, but you have the wrong person.” I feel a sense of panic.
“Give it a lash.”
