I forward the message to Cain. Someone took this photo; who could it be? Melody? Paula? I don’t know. Or Jamie himself because he’s here. I’m scared.
My phone rings almost immediately. I answer.
“It’s…it’s him, Cain,” I stammer.
“Where are you, sweet thing?” Cain sounds calm, but I know he isn’t. I can sense it.
“Ripley’s. I…Ricky just dropped me off.”
“Okay. Why don’t you go upstairs? And lock up, yeah? I’m home in less than thirty minutes.”
“Cain.”
“I’ve texted Kyle, he’s gonna be there in minutes. Five tops.”
I swallow and feel stupid suddenly. “It’s fine. I’m being…silly.”
“Faith, you’re not being silly.”
I take a deep breath. “Will you…will you stay on the phone with me?”
“Yes.”
I open the door as he tells me how his day has been. He’s distracting me. It isn’t working.
I turn the light on and lock the door behind me once I’m in his apartment. I feel relief.
“All okay?” he asks.
“Yes. I’m sorry for being so…I’m sorry.”
“You never have to be sorry with me. Now, get into bed and I’ll join you in no time.”
27
FIRE DOESN’T FLINCH
FAITH
As soon as I hang up, I hear a sound.
I know something is wrong.
It’s not the plumbing that creaks tonight. It’s my past.
“Long time, little whore.” Jamie steps out of the bedroom.
He’s been here the whole time.
My heart is in my throat.
He looks taller somehow. Leaner. His eyes are the same cold ones that loved to map every bruise he left on me.
I don’t scream. I don’t cry. I step back, heart pounding in my throat, but my spine stays straight.
Cain’s apartment is an open floor plan. A huge space with the living, dining, and kitchen. Then, a hallway opens into two bedrooms.
“You know, I forgave you for running away, for stealing. But now cops are coming and talking to me. They’re asking all kinds of questions. Saying that, even if you don’t press charges, they have photos.” He comes closer.
