“I’ll go in now. You take your time,” Aaron said softly, squeezing her hand before disappearing inside.

  Alone in the sterile hallway, Sarah felt the weight of her decision press down on her shoulders. The guilt, a relentless specter, whispered in her ear, holding her back in its icy grip.

  Minutes turned to hours as Sarah stood there, battling the turmoil within her. She walked up to the door and placed her hand on the knob, but at the last minute, she turned and fled. Removing the protective gear she had been given, she placed them in the bin and headed for the elevator. As the doors closed, Aaron appeared around the corner, and their eyes met. She noticed the disappointment in their green depths before the doors closed completely. Sarah sagged against the wall as tears rolled down her face.

  Aaron met her in the parking lot a few minutes later, and the two traveled in silence back home. Aaron continued to visit the hospital daily while Sarah remained at home, eaten up by guilt.

  The sound of the doorbell brought her out of her reverie, and she opened the door to find Nikki standing there.

  “Hi, sweetie. Can I come in?”

  Without a word, Sarah stepped aside to allow her entry. The moment she closed the door and turned to her stepmother; she knew from the determined look in her eyes that she would have to listen to what she had to say.

  “Sweetheart, I’m worried about you. We’re all worried about you,” Nikki began softly, her voice filled with genuine concern. “You haven’t been yourself since the baby was born. Have you considered talking to someone about how you’re feeling?”

  Sarah’s eyes welled up with tears, even as she shook her head. “I don’t need a shrink, Nikki. I just need time to process everything. I’ll be okay.”

  “Sarah, I know this is hard.” Nikki’s voice was gentle, tinged with concern. “But you have to take care of yourself too. You’ve been through so much.”

  Sarah forced a smile, her facade crumbling at the edges. “I really don’t need someone to tell me how I’m feeling. I know what I’m feeling, and I am telling you that I will be okay.” Her tone was hard.

  Nikki’s gaze held hers, unwavering. “You don’t have to pretend with me, Sarah. It’s okay to get help.”

  Just as Sarah opened her mouth to respond, the shrill ring of her phone pierced the silence. Her hand trembled as she answered. The color drained from her face with each passing moment.

  “No, that can’t be true,” Sarah whispered, her voice barely above a murmur.

  Nikki’s hand found hers, a silent gesture of comfort amidst the storm raging within. The news of Sienna’s passing shattered the fragile semblance of composure Sarah had managed to maintain, leaving her adrift in a sea of grief and guilt.

  Aaron’s arrival brought a sense of urgency to the somber atmosphere. His eyes bored into Sarah’s, a silent plea for her to acknowledge the depths of her pain.

  “We’re going to see a counselor, Sarah.” Aaron’s voice was firm, his resolve unwavering. “You need help, and I’m not going to stand by and watch you suffer and destroy yourself.”

  Chapter Seventeen

  Blake stood in front of the bedroom mirror, the soft hum of anticipation buzzing in her ears as she applied ruby lipstick, the finishing touch to her carefully curated outfit. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d had a night out just for herself—a night without worries, without the heavy shroud of the past clouding her present.

  The click of a door hinge interrupted her thoughts, and she turned to see Ivy leaning against the frame.

  “You look nice,” Ivy said, a smile playing on her lips.

  The simplicity of the compliment, so earnest and unexpected, warmed Blake’s heart. “Thanks, honey,” she replied, her eyes softening. “How was school today?”

  Ivy shrugged, stepping fully into the room, her guard seemingly down for the first time in weeks. “It’s okay. I’m starting to get the hang of things, I guess.”

  Blake’s heart swelled at the admission. “That’s great to hear, Ivy. And how’s it going with David? Still friends?” she smirked.

  Ivy gave a small laugh, a sound that reminded Blake of happier times. “Yeah. Last time I checked, we still are. But I do have other friends. They invited me to the movies next weekend.”

  “Really? That’s wonderful, Ivy.” Blake’s voice was thick with pride. “I’m so proud of you for giving this a chance.”

  “Not like I have a choice,” Ivy shrugged, looking at her feet.

  Blake offered an apologetic smile, the weight of their shared loss echoing silently between them. “I know, sweetheart. But let’s just focus on now, and hopefully, everything will work out.”

  Ivy nodded, her eyes flickering with a question that seemed to linger on her tongue. “Have you heard anything about Dominic?”

  The name sent a ripple through Blake, but she kept her composure for her daughter’s sake. “No, the last time I spoke to Kelly, she said Dominic is still in Greenwich. She saw him and his old partner from the force at the diner I used to work at a day ago.”

  “Does he... do you think he knows where we are?”

  Blake met her daughter’s gaze, a fortress of assurance. “He doesn’t, Ivy. I promise.”

  Ivy nodded. “I hope that’s true. Have a great night out, Mom,” she said, making her exit from Blake’s bedroom.

  “Thanks, sweetie,” Blake called after her.

  Blake left her bedroom shortly after that and stepped out into the night, her heart lighter than it had been in months. As she closed the door behind her, she carried with her not just the promise of a night of laughter and liberation but the sweet reassurance her daughter was finally starting to open up again and was, dare she add… happy.

  Getting into her car, Blake made her way to the pub, Seaside Haven, where she met Trish and her sisters. The inviting hum of conversation and the faint melody of live music greeted her as she stepped inside, the warm glow of the pub a stark contrast to the outside.

  Trish waved enthusiastically from a booth near the back, a wide grin lighting up her face as Blake approached. “Hey, Blake! So glad you could make it.”

  “Hi, Trish, Nikki, and you must be… Lacy,” Blake greeted her friend and the other two women.

  Blake noticed that, unlike Trish and Nikki, who were both blond and blue-eyed, she had more caramel-colored hair and chocolate-brown eyes, but there was no mistaking them being related to each other when Lacy smiled as she stretched out her hand to her.

  “Nice to meet you, Blake. David talks about Ivy all the time, just like this one here talks about you,” Lacy said, bumping Trish’s arm.

  Blake returned the handshake with a warm smile. “All good things, I hope.”

  “Absolutely,” Lacy replied with a wide grin, which put Blake at ease.

  “It’s great to finally meet you. David and Ivy seem to have a good friendship,” Blake said.

  “I guess they bonded over being two of the newest students at Camano High,” Lacy surmised. Blake nodded.

  As they settled into the booth, the atmosphere around them buzzed with the energy and the anticipation of having a good time. The evening unfolded in a symphony of laughter, heartfelt conversations, and the clinking of glasses.

  “The view from the top was breathtaking, especially at sunset,” Nikki regaled them with stories of the different places she visited during her honeymoon. She was currently telling them about her visit to the Eiffel Tower. A wistful smile played on her lips. “It felt like we were on top of the world, just the two of us.”

  Blake leaned back in the booth, intrigued as she listened to Nikki. “That sounds like a magical experience. That must have been a special moment for you and Paul.”

  “It was.” Nikki’s head bobbed with excitement. “And then there was Santorini—stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings cascading down the cliffs…”

  Blake couldn’t help but be enthralled by Nikki’s accounts of her travels. It made her feel like she was there. “You have such a way of painting a picture with your words,” she expressed.

  “Well, I wouldn’t have won two Front Page Awards if I didn’t know how to tell a story,” Nikki replied with a spark in her eyes.

  Blake tilted her head with curiosity.

  “Nikki was a journalist,” Trish explained.

  “That explains it.” Blake smiled.

  As the night wore on, the pub buzzed with life around them, the music filling the air with a sense of joy and freedom. Their laughter mingled with the chatter of other patrons. To Blake, it felt so right, so normal to be here.

  “I’ve got some exciting news for you—something that’ll make this night even better for you,” Trish said to Blake, her eyes sparkling.

  Blake’s eyes widened in curiosity. “What’s that?”

  Trish leaned in conspiratorially. “Reed told me he’s looking for a new resident vet since the current vet is leaving in a week. I reminded him that you’re a vet and were interested in the position.”

  Blake’s heart skipped a beat. “What did he say?”

  “He asked if you’re available for an interview on Monday,” Trish smirked.

  The thought of returning to her passion for animal care stirred something deep within Blake. She had been waiting to step back into this role—for so long. After saving the cat, the yearning had become even more profound after she’d saved her. But then a pang of guilt crept in. “I don't know, Trish. I love working at Lot 28. Everyone’s been so great. It wouldn’t feel right to just leave after a month.”

  Trish gave her a knowing look. “I understand, Blake, but this is a fantastic opportunity, and Ken would understand. I think you should at least consider it.”

  As the night drew to a close, Blake bid the other women goodnight and made her way home. When she stepped through the door, she went to check on Ivy before heading to her room for some much-needed sleep.

  Monday, Blake found her way to the Humane Society.

  “Blake. I’m glad you came,” Reed greeted her the moment she entered his office.

  “Hi, Reed.” She smiled, shaking his hand.

  “Please, have a seat.” He gestured to the chair before his desk.

  “I am thrilled that you’re joining our team,” Reed said as he settled in his chair.

  “Isn’t this an interview? Because this sounds like I’ve already gotten the job.” Blake quirked a brow.

  “That’s because you have.” Reed smiled. “You come highly recommended by Trish, and I trust her judgment.”

  “Wow…” Blake stared wide-eyed. “This is… I am honored.”

  “Great. Let me give you a tour of the shelter. We can talk about your remuneration.”

  Reed led Blake through the bustling corridors filled with cages of various sizes, each housing furry residents waiting for attention and care. As they walked, the sounds of barking, meowing, and chirping filled the air.

  “You’ll be working closely with our team to provide medical care and attention to these lovely creatures. Your expertise will make a world of difference here,” Reid explained, his voice filled with gratitude.

  Blake nodded, taking in the sight of the animals with a mix of compassion and determination. She approached a cage where a small kitten with bright eyes gazed at her, its tiny paw reaching out in curiosity.

  “Well, hello there, little one,” Blake cooed, gently extending a hand to stroke the kitten’s soft fur. “You’re in good hands now.”

  As she made her rounds, checking on each animal and making a note of their needs, Blake felt a sense of fulfillment wash over her.

  After leaving the shelter, she made her way to the restaurant, where she had a difficult discussion.

  “Hey, rookie, what’re you doing here? Your shift doesn’t start for another… four hours,” Jean looked at the clock before looking back at Blake.

  “I know, Jean. I need to talk to Ken,” Blake replied, heading toward Ken’s office. “Is he in there?”

  “Yeah,” Jean replied, continuing to prep the cut of meat she had on the table.

  Blake hesitated just outside Ken’s office; her hand raised to knock. Taking a deep breath, she rapped lightly on the door.

  “Come in,” came Ken’s steady voice from inside.

  Swallowing her nerves, Blake nudged the door open and stepped into the room where Ken sat behind his desk, his eyes lifting in surprise.

  “Blake,” Ken greeted, his tone a mixture of curiosity and concern. “You’re early today. Is everything okay?”

  Blake forced a smile, her fingers brushing the back of a chair. “Hi, Ken. Yeah, everything’s fine,” Blake assured him. “Actually…”

  Ken set his pen down. “Uh oh! That doesn’t sound good,” he said, leaning back in his chair and looking up at her.

  She dove in, her words rushing out. “I just… I want you to know how much I’ve loved working here. This place, you, and the team… you’ve become like family to me.”

  “I agree.” Ken nodded.

  “But,” she continued, her heart pounding, “I’ve been given an opportunity to work at the Humane Society. They needed a resident veterinarian.”

  There was a moment of silence before Ken responded, his voice thoughtful. “Blake, I appreciate all the hard work you’ve put in here. You’re a valued member of our team. But I can see how much you miss working in your field. I would never keep you away from doing what you love the most.”

  Blake looked at Ken, gratitude shining in her eyes. “Thank you, Ken. I needed to hear that. I’ll miss this place.”

  Ken smiled warmly. “You’re always welcome to come here. No reservations required.”

  Blake chuckled. “I guess I’m eating here every night then.”

  “That’s not a bad idea.” Ken smiled. The two stared at each other, an electric undercurrent keeping their gazes connected.

  The knock at the door broke them out of that trance. “Can I come in?” came Jean’s voice.

  “I have to go.” Blake shot out of the chair and headed for the door.

  “Blake,” Ken called out to her.

  Pausing at the door, she turned to him.

  “You’re going to do great.”

  Blake smiled appreciatively. “Thanks.”

  When she made her way to her car, she sat there thinking about the moment that had passed between her and Ken. She couldn’t deny it had stirred something in her. Maybe it was a good thing she was leaving.

  The beeping of her phone caught her attention. Fishing it out of her bag, she brought the phone up. Her brows furrowed in confusion at the unknown number.

  “Hello?”

  Silence greeted her, stretching out uncomfortably.

  “Hello?” she repeated, a twinge of annoyance creeping into her voice.

  The line crackled, but no voice came through. Blake’s pulse quickened, a thread of unease weaving through her. She glanced around the quiet parking lot, suddenly feeling exposed.

  Chapter Eighteen

  “Hello?”

  “Kelly, it’s me,” Blake’s voice quivered slightly as she held the phone close to her ear.

  “Hey, Blake. What’s going on? You sound tense,” Kelly’s voice came through, tinged with immediate concern.

  Blake paused, taking a deep, steadying breath before she could trust herself to speak. “I’m... I’m okay, I guess.”

  There was a telling silence, and then Kelly spoke, her intuition sharp. “Blake. You don’t sound okay at all. Talk to me, what’s happened?”

  Blake’s fingers clenched around the phone, her knuckles turning white from the pressure. “It’s... Can you tell me if Dominic is still in New York?”

  Kelly’s answer came quickly, her words a comforting balm. “Yes, he’s definitely still here. In fact, I pass by the house daily to make sure he’s still there.”

  A visible wave of relief washed over Blake, her clenched shoulders dropping slightly as the tension seeped out of them.

  “Blake, you’re scaring me. What’s this about?” Kelly pressed; her voice soft but insistent.

  “It’s probably nothing, just…” Blake hesitated, “I’ve been receiving some odd calls recently.”

  “That doesn’t sound like nothing, Blake,” Kelly countered, her worry palpable even through the digital divide. “And even with Dominic here, it doesn’t rule him out. He could still be trying to reach you.”

  Blake rubbed the center of her forehead with a shaky hand, exhaling slowly. “I’m aware. It’s just that... if it’s him, that means he might have figured out where I am now…”

  Kelly’s voice was a mix of reassurance and steel. “I highly doubt he knows, Blake. And remember, he can’t just leave New York like that.”

  “I want to believe you, I really do,” Blake murmured, her voice a whisper of hope. “But we both know Dominic... he’s... unpredictable, and he’s got friends in the force ready to do anything for him—even break the law.”

  The silence that followed was heavy, laden with unspoken fears.

  “Listen.” Kelly finally broke the silence with a determined tone. “I’ve got a friend who works at the airport who owes me a few favors. I’ll have her keep an eye out for Dominic’s name on any outgoing flight lists. And I’ll keep tabs on him here too.”

  Blake’s protest was immediate, “Kelly… you can’t. That’s putting you in too much—”

  “Stop,” Kelly cut her off gently. “If it means you’re safe, it’s not ‘too much.’ It’s necessary.”

  “Thank you,” Blake whispered, her heart a little lighter, a soft smile gracing her lips, though Kelly couldn’t see it.

  “You don’t have to thank me,” Kelly’s voice was firm with friendship. “Just stay safe.”

  The call ended with a soft click, and Blake sat in her car in the parking lot of her daughter’s school. She watched as the students spilled out from the building, their laughter and chatter piercing the quiet anxiety that had cocooned her. She texted Ivy, her thumb hovering over the send button before pressing down decisively, letting her daughter know she was there to pick her up. The decision had been spurred by the third anonymous call in as many days. Not knowing who kept calling the number, only a few select people knew, made her fear Dominic’s shadow might just be stretching farther than she hoped.

 

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