Page 20 of Whispers in the Dark
“When am I not?”
“That’s my Alina,” he says proudly. “You take right after your parents.”
“So I’ve heard. Actually, I should probably make a trip to the library later today to return some books before I’m hit with a nasty fine.”
“I’ll cover the fine for you,” he offers.
I smile, knowing fully well I would never take a dime from him. Not that he has one. “I can always count on you.”
“Of course. Maybe while you’re there, you can pick up a book for your mom. She would probably like something new to read.”
My heart cracks.
“Dad,” I say gently, my throat beginning to burn. “Mom isn’t here anymore.”
“What do you mean, sweetheart?”
My eyes fill with tears that I blink away. “She died. Years ago. Remember?”
It takes him a moment before he finally says, “Of course. Yes, I remember. I don’t know what I was thinking.”
“It’s okay,” I say softly. “Why don’t you take it easy today. Maybe take a nap or see if there’s anything good on TV.”
“A nap sounds like a good idea. I’ll let you go, sweetheart. But Alina?”
“Yeah, Dad?”
“I love you.”
A tear crawls down my cheek, but I make no move to swipe it away. “I love you.”
He ends the call, and I rest my head against the back of the couch, closing my eyes.
Every time I hear from him, it feels like it’s getting worse.
My phone vibrates in my hand and I glance at it to see a new message.
Unknown Number
Tick Tock… Time to choose a groom or I will.
I swallow hard, my fingers immediately shaking. My grip releases as I let my phone drop beside me, my eyes floating around the space, fearful of who might be nearby. But I’m safe. No one can find me here. Not on the Alarie Estate.
I take a steady breath and drag my forearm across my face. I sit up and look back at the pile of clothes with the note on top. I reach for the small piece of paper and scan every word.
These are for you.
If there’s anything else you may need, just let me know.
Come find me at the training center.
We need to talk.
-Mauro
I look through the pile of clothes, finding leggings, socks, a grey workout top, a purple puffer jacket, and…
I lift the pair of black panties and matching black bra between my fingers as heat spreads up my neck.
