The Only Home I Ever Loved

Four

Magnolia

"Thank you, have a great day." I smiled at the woman as I handed her, her change back. She gave me a small nod before leaving the book store. 

"Magnolia!" 

My head perked up to see my boss, Sylvia, coming from the office. "Just wanted to give you your paycheck before you leave for the day. Also, thanks for your help decorating the store for Halloween. It looks great." She smiled, handing me my check. 

"Thanks. It was a lot of fun. I'm still doing the after school read aloud tomorrow, right?" I questioned, gathering my things to head out of the day. 

"The weather is supposed to be really bad tomorrow so I'm not sure if we're going to be doing it tomorrow. Might reschedule till Monday. Honestly, take the day off tomorrow. You've been working almost ever-"

"I really enjoy working here. It gives me something to do." I smiled, slinging my backpack over my shoulder.

"I know but head office is getting on me about your over time and it's good to have at least one day off. Take the day off tomorrow." Sylvia's tone was strict but caring. "Go see a movie or learn a new recipe. I don't know, anything. Your young, go have fun!" He chuckled and I shook my head.

"Fine but I'll be back on Saturday morning." I told her and she just shook her head laughing as I left the store for her to close up. 

I zipped up my coat and wrapped my scarf around my neck as I made my way home. The air was harsh against my cheeks as I waited for the bus. 

Once I was situated on the bus and out of the wind I pulled out my phone as it began to ring.

"Hi." I answered, peering around the bus.

"Hi, love. You on you way home?" Ann's chipper voice rang through the phone. 

"Mhm, sorry. I got off a bit late. I'll be home in 15." 

I placed my phone back in my pocket as I looked out the window at the desolate streets. 

After my part of the investigation concluded I was placed into a battered women's shelter that was providing me therapy and work programs. 

The first few months were really hard. I had a hard time adjusting to the shelter and found my mental health deteriorating. I couldn't sleep, couldn't eat and developed a lot of paranoia about Oliver or someone finding me and hurting me. I had told the police a lot about Oliver and Ken, at least everything I knew. 

I hadn't heard about any new information. I know that the trial is still going on. It was way bigger than I thought. 

After the first few months in the shelter when things weren't getting better Ann reached out to me and met up with me to think of another solution. I moved to a sort of half way house until the end of summer and that wasn't any better. 

So, Ann being the absolute angel she is, did something I really didn't think she would do or anyone would do for that matter. She took me into her home and has been taking the best care of me. Her home was so warm and loving and I felt so comfortable there. 

I haven't seen Harry since I've lived with Ann. It's only been me, her and Gemma. Gemma was like a sister to me. She was amazing and funny and made me feel so at home. Both of them have. 

I don't believe Ann ever knew that Harry knew me. I hadn't seen him since that day at the police station. Ann talks about him a lot though. How he's her baby and that he's very successful and lives a very busy life.