Page 105 of Savage Keepsakes

I dress in jeggings and an oversized purple shirt. I despise the obligations awaiting me today. Visiting Leah is the last thing I want to do. She has stolen more than joy. She has snatched away my hope and optimism.

The audacity she has to ruin my life is beyond belief. Any nerves I had are long gone. Sheer spite fills my belly and I won’t let this bitch steal anything more from me.

Forgetting my auxiliary cord is the second worst thing about the trip until the shitty music on the radio is interrupted by a news report:

“This is an announcement for a nationwide recall. The brand Lou’s Organic Soap has been recalled from all places that sell it. If you have or currently own any, please contact the toll-free number to get a refund. The soap is not safe for human use.”

I smirk. It’s fine to be used, but they think they’re going to find more evidence to put Billy away for life.

When I enter her hospital room, Leah opens her eyes briefly, but they roll back in her head. As I take a seat beside her bed, I look her over. Bruises have turned an unsightly yellow colour in spots.

Some areas are green, and the swelling in her face has gone down. It fills me with happiness that she’s as ugly on the outside as her insides must be.

“Lucy… you’re in danger.” Her words are clipped, as if it’s still a struggle to talk.

“No, you’re the only threat I’ve ever had in my life,” I hiss.

“Lucy… Bill…” she starts.

I grip her thigh tightly over the blankets. “No, he’s a good man. You’ve fucked everything up, as per usual.”

I glance out through the door. The normal hustle is happening, but I doubt anyone is watching her room.

I pull out the syringe and add the solution to her IV. It should be pretty painless and quick, which is less than she deserves, but I do not want to go to prison.

Settling next to her bedside, I lower my voice to almost a whisper: “I hope you rot in hell, you fucking cunt.”

Once I’m outside, the drops of rain hit my skin, the coolness of the air giving me a slight chill, but giddiness runs through me and festers a warmth that carries me all the way to the car.

The chances of getting Billy back may be slim, but at least I won’t have to endure Leah’s malicious words tarnishing his reputation or mine.

Twenty-Seven

Lucy

3 Months Later

“Great shift, Lucy,” Artie says to me as we make our way to the parking lot.

“Thanks. It’s been tough with the new hires. I’m sad they’re breaking up our partnership,” I tell him.

Once I reach the car, I toss my bag into the passenger seat and lean against the vehicle, heat radiating from the metal.

“It’s because they know you’ll be an amazing teacher for the newbies. With Leah gone, we’re going to need all the help we can get.”

I nod in agreement and wave goodbye to him.

Artie has gotten the promotion he deserves, and although I don’t want to train new people, I’m proud of him.

I settle into the car. The evening casting a golden glow on the landscape. The sudden ring of my phone startles me.

“Hey JoJo, how are you?”

“Alright. I’m at your house with dinner. What time do you get off work?”

“On my way home now. Have I mentioned how much I love you?”

She laughs and ends the call.

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