Page 27 of Ringo's Silence

Chapter 7

Kimmie

I have today and tomorrow off. Bella teased that she was sick of seeing me but I think in reality she knew I needed a break.

Remmy is gone with Ringo for the day. It’s strange not having him underfoot. I miss him. His curious questions when he discovers something new and even the sound of his video game in the background has always reminded me of why I’ve been running for so long.

About an hour after Ringo picked him up, a herd of deer wandered through the yard behind the cabin.

Out of habit, I automatically called out for Remmy to come look. Only to remember he went to the ranch when he didn’t come running.

Ringo has been such a gentleman driving me to work and having coffee with me everyday. He never says much but the silence is comforting. After years of being around loud angry men, I appreciate the quiet.

He hasn’t asked me anymore about the man in the alley but every once in a while I catch him looking at me with curiosity.

I’m not ready to tell him the truth. I’m not ready for this to end.

I know it will. The minute I tell him everything he’s going to drop me like a hot potato and run far away. No man is going to want my baggage.

Just when things were looking up, it’s time for us to move on again. My heart is breaking at the knowledge of it.

White Summer calls to me in a way no other place has before, it feels like home. The people here feel like they are mine.

The secret hope that we could stay here and be happy disappeared the moment that man grabbed me.

I’ll have the loaner car soon but will they report it stolen if I take it? I don’t have enough saved up for bus tickets.

In the past I’ve done whatever it takes to keep ahead of Hugo and his men. It’s never bothered me to lie, steal or cheat to keep myself and my son alive.

These people are different. Bella gave me a job. She has introduced me to Mina, Fiona and several other “old ladies” with names I can’t keep straight.

Ringo basically gave me his house. I’ve been able to save every penny I earn because he won’t let me pay rent or utilities.

Heck, even the fridge seems to have an endless supply of groceries. I barely noticed the milk was getting low, before it was suddenly full again.

All these thoughts keep running in a circle through my head as I finish the laundry and pull out our go bags.

I always try to keep the bags ready but Remmy had a recent growth spurt so I need to make sure the clothes in it still fit him. It doesn’t take me long to do that and before I know it my son is running back through the front door.

“MOM! MOM!” He shouts.

“Remmy, I’m right here. What are you yelling for?” I ask him.

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