Part 6

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by JSMarlo

by JSMarlo

Children's Services was located in a brand new professional building in the industrial district. At night, the area was deserted.

With hope in her heart and spring in her steps, Claire breezed through the empty lobby and exited into the freezing night. Swayed by the wind, fat snowflakes twirled in the light of the lampposts. The weatherman forecasted a winter storm beginning tonight. His predictions were right on target.

As she neared her car sprinkled with snow, the only vehicle in the parking lot, Claire noticed a shadow by the passenger side. "Hello? Is someone there?"

A silhouette—a hooded silhouette extending an arm toward her—advanced in her direction. "You shouldn't work alone at night. It's dangerous."

The chilling voice stopped Claire dead in her tracks. It sounded oddly familiar, still it took her a few seconds to recognize it.

What are you doing lurking in the parking lot? You shouldn't be here. Despite the erratic beating of her heart, Claire forced herself to remain calm. "What do you want?"

The hood fell back, revealing a sickening smirk. "To kill you."

A detonation resonated in the air and pain exploded in Claire's head. She collapsed in the parking lot.

Blood reddened the snow on the ground. Satisfied, the shooter walked away.

TO BE CONTINUED in Seasoned Hearts – Love & Sacrifice #1 (Available in February 2022)